When it comes to vegetables, many are good for dogs in the same way they are good for us. However, one ought to be wary that some vegetables and plants are not good for dogs. In fact, some even contain toxic substances.
Bok choy is a cabbage that comes from China. It is a versatile green, but is normally found in Asian specialties such as ramen and other noodle dishes. It is full of nutrients and antioxidants that support a healthy human lifestyle.
Can we say the same for our dogs? Can dogs eat bok choy?
In this article, we will answer this question and see if bok choy is safe for our dogs. Further, we will detail whether this veggie provides any benefits or harmful effects on our dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Bok Choy?
The short answer is yes; dogs can absolutely eat bok choy. Although there are many types of natural foods that are not good for dogs such as grapes and bones, bok choy does not fall into this category.
In further detail, bok choy is a healthy food for dogs because they contain a number of benefits for dogs.
What Health Benefits Do Dogs Get From Bok Choy?
Bok Choy is rich in a handful of key minerals and vitamins. These include Vitamins A, B6, C, K, as well as Potassium, Magnesium, Fiber, and Phosphorus.
Let’s go into more detail about the benefits of each of these nutrients for your dogs here:
- Vitamin A can help prevent medical conditions caused by irregular blood sugar levels.
- Vitamin B6 is good for supporting amino acid metabolism as well as reinforcing bladder health. It also maintains a variety of functions for dogs. For example, vitamin B6 can improve the nerve function of dogs.
- Vitamin C strengthens a dog’s immune system and simultaneously, bones.
- Vitamin K develops dogs blood vessels and regenerates skin and creative tissue.
- Potassium can keep your dog’s bones strong and healthy. This makes bok choy a good food for older dogs.
- Magnesium which regulates metabolism. It also helps in a dog’s neurotransmission.
- Fiber can help solve a dog’s digestive problems. Foods rich in fiber such as bok choy can help against bowel movement problems.
- Phosphorus (in its mineral form), can build up a healthier bone.
However, it is important to note that not all aspects of bok choy are healthy for dogs.
Health Precautions To Take When It Comes To Dogs and Bok Choy
When you first give you dog bok choy, you should only give her/him a small amount at first. This is to see if the dog could have an allergy to bok choy or not.
Additionally, be aware that bok choy can be a choking hazard, due to its length and bulbous bottom. To avoid any issues with your dog, you can chop the bok choy in half lengthwise and widthwise.
When eaten raw, bok choy can be hard to digest. Yet, when heavily cooked, the bok choy’s levels of Vitamins C and K decrease. Thus, we advise you to lightly steam the vegetable beforehand (for both you and your dog!)
In conclusion, bok choy is good food for dogs, so with the suggestions we provided in mind, there is not much to worry about the next time you decide to devour this leafy green together!
Learn More About What Human Foods Are Healthy or Harmful for Dogs
This article is part of our special series of articles about “What Human Foods Can Dogs Eat?”
Up next, find out about one of the most popular food items around in Can Dogs Eat Bagels?
