When it comes to vegetables, some are good and others are bad for dogs. Owners may be wondering whether dogs can eat eggplant without developing negative health issues. While most dogs can safely have eggplant since it’s not poisonous, you should be aware that this treat has been known to be an allergen to both humans and dogs. You will also need to be mindful about giving your dogs raw and cooked eggplant with the skin and seeds included.
Most dogs will enjoy grilled, roasted, or baked eggplant and this nutritious vegetable even contains important vitamins and minerals. Although safe for most dogs, there are risks of an allergic reaction and eggplant can be bad for dogs with kidney problems or arthritis. To help you understand your pet’s health, we’ve compiled a guide on why eggplant is good and not toxic for dogs, the health benefits this vegetable provides, and the potential side effects you’ll need to consider.
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Health Benefits of Eggplant For Dogs
Eggplant offers several health benefits. First, eggplant is rich in dietary fiber, which dogs need to maintain healthy digestive tracts. Eggplant is also low in calories and is not fattening. This makes it a filling food that is great for dogs that are on restrictive calorie diets because they will feel full longer without overeating. Here are some additional health benefits of eggplant for dogs:
- Brain health — Eggplants have nasunin, which is a phytonutrient that is necessary for healthy brain function and can help prevent brain damage.
- Fight cancer — Eggplants contain chlorogenic acid, which can help to prevent cancer, as well as bacteria, infections, and even high cholesterol.
- Heart health — Eggplant can help to improve circulation, heart health, and blood flow, which collectively lowers the risk of developing heart disease.
- Nutrients — Eggplant contains vitamins B1, B6, and K. It is also rich in copper, folate, manganese, potassium, calcium, niacin, and iron. These are all essential nutrients that dogs need to maintain happy and healthy lifestyles.
Dangers of Eggplant For Dogs
While eggplant is good for most dogs, there are some instances where it can pose a danger. For instance, you should never give eggplant leaves to your dogs. Not only can the leaves make dogs sick but they can also be toxic and deadly. Another thing to watch out for is allergic reactions.
Although most dogs can safely eat eggplant, some dogs are allergic to it. When introducing eggplant to your dogs’ diets, watch your dogs carefully for any signs of allergic reactions, which can include itching, rashes, diarrhea, and stomach upsets. In some cases, allergic reactions may be more severe and can include vomiting and facial swelling. If you think one of your dogs is having an allergic reaction to eggplant, or anything else, immediately contact your veterinarian.
In addition, dogs that are suffering from kidney problems should not be given eggplants because it is high in oxalate. Unfortunately, this can exacerbate your dogs’ pre-existing health conditions. Eggplant also has inflammatory effects so dogs with arthritis should not be given eggplants.
Yes, Dogs Can Eat Eggplant
Some people say that dogs can eat raw eggplant, while others insist that it needs to be thoroughly cooked before being given to dogs. This is something that you should discuss with your vet. It is probably best to err on the side of caution though and cook any eggplant that you are going to give to your dogs.
There are several ways that you can cook eggplant, including boiling and roasting. Make sure that you use as little oil or butter as possible, and don’t use any seasonings like salt or garlic. No matter how you serve it, you are going to be giving your dogs a healthy, delicious treat that they will love.