As we know, the consumption of vegetables, fruits and plant-based foods is a great things for our bodies and minds. However, this is not always the case for our dogs. There are some plant based options that range from healthy to neutral. While there are others that are just downright dangerous for a canine to eat.
With such a range, it can be a tricky deed to figure out if certain foods are okay for dogs. This becomes even more important when your dog has consumed something from the kitchen counter and you need to figure out what will happen next!
In this articles we’ll cover a fairly common vegetable, the eggplant and see what kind of affect it can have on our dogs.
So can dogs eat eggplant? Below find out if eggplant is safe for dogs or not. Also you’ll learn whether what healthy benefits and/or harmful effects is has on our dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Eggplant?
The short answer is yes. Dogs can absolutely eat eggplant. Eggplant is a safe food for dogs.
In fact, eggplant is also quite a nutritious food for our furry pooches. It contains a number of health benefits for dogs.
Health Benefits of Eggplant for Your Dog
Eggplants are rich in nutrients that help boost dogs’ health. They contain Vitamin B6, Vitamin B6, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Fiber, Folate, Niacin, Phytonutrients, and Potassium.
The following lists key vitamins and nutrients in eggplants and their effects:
- Vitamin B6 is good for supporting amino acid metabolism as well as reinforcing bladder health. It maintains a variety of cellular functions in dogs. Vitamin B6 can improve the nerve function of dogs.
- Vitamin C, this strengthens a dog’s immune system as well as their bones.
- Vitamin K, helpful in developing blood vessels as well as regenerating skin and creative tissue.
- Potassium, it keeps your dog’s bones strong and healthy. This makes eggplant a good food choice to incorporate into older dogs diets.
- Fiber, a big helper in solving a dog’s digestive problems. Foods rich in fiber such as eggplants can help against bowel movement problems.
- Folate, this is an essential vitamin that helps in preventing things such as fatty liver.
- Anthocyanins are also found in eggplants. Anthocyanins can help in maintaining a dog’s blood pressure.
- Chlorogenic acid, eggplants contain a high content of this. Chlorogenic acid can help in certain ailments including cancer.
Eggplant also has antioxidants such as phytonutrients. Phytonutrients are antioxidants that help the cell to function.
Precautions To Take When It Comes To Dogs and Eggplants
However, it’s not all good. Eating too much eggplant may cause some issues and there are some situations where eggplant may not be a good food choice for your dog. In fact, it is important to know that some dogs are allergic to this vegetable.
Symptoms of an allergy to eggplants include itchiness, rash, upset stomach, facial swelling and more such as vomiting.
Eggplants contain solanine. This compound is toxic to dogs if taken in high amounts. So be careful with giving dogs high amounts of eggplant.
Also, dogs should avoid eating eggplant if they have kidney issues or inflammation such as arthritis. That is because eggplants have oxalates which prevent the absorption of calcium.
Cooked, grilled, roasted, or baked eggplants are more appealing to dogs compared to raw eggplants. And you should not put much, if any, seasoning on eggplant you give to your dog. Many seasonings contain harmful substances that can make dogs sick.
In conclusion, eggplants are safe for dogs as long as they are fed with the right amount and if prepared correctly.
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?”
Looking for some exotic foods for your dog? In this article find out Can Dogs Eat Dragon Fruit?
