Cabbage is a heart-healthy food that is popular with people. If you’re preparing cabbage for yourself, you might find yourself wondering if it’s okay to share this vegetable with your dog. It’s okay to give your dog some cabbage in small quantities, but there are some precautions you should be aware of.
In This Article
Is Cabbage Good for Dogs?
Dr. Jerry Klein, Chief Veterinarian for the AKC, advises that “cabbage is in the same family as cauliflower and broccoli, so it is safe to feed a dog cabbage, but only in moderation.” If you choose to incorporate cabbage into your dog’s diet, there may even be some health benefits.
Dr. Klein explains that cabbage is a “low-calorie and high-fiber food that is high in vitamins C and K, magnesium, and beta-carotene.” Vitamin C helps to reduce inflammation, protects cells from free radicals, and may even reduce some cognitive impacts of aging.
The fiber in cabbage can support your dog’s digestion and prevent or reduce constipation or diarrhea. Magnesium helps your dog’s body to maintain muscle and nerve function. It can also support your dog’s immune system. Beta-carotene promotes eye health and may help reduce the risk of cancer.
Vitamin K assists with blood clotting if your dog has a cut or injury. Cabbage also includes vitamin B6, which supports healthy red blood cells and hormones, as well as the development of protein structures. It also has vitamin B, which helps your dog’s brain and other organs to function properly.
Is Cabbage Bad for Dogs?
Although cabbage is safe to feed to dogs, it should only be fed in moderation. “Cabbage produces a large amount of gas, and many dogs may not be able to handle excessive gas production, especially in breeds that have the potential to bloat,” explains Dr. Klein.
If you know that your dog tends to have a lot of gas or is prone to bloat, consult with your vet before feeding cabbage to your dog. You may want to consider other dog-safe vegetables that produce less gas, such as carrots.
What Types of Cabbage Can My Dog Eat?
In limited quantities, both red cabbage and green cabbage are safe for dogs to eat. Other types of cabbage, like Savoy, Napa cabbage, and bok choy, are also considered safe.
“Always consult with your veterinarian for the best guidance for your dog before offering any new food item,” advises Dr. Klein.
Can Dogs Eat Cabbage Raw? How to Safely Give It to Your Dog
If you want to occasionally give cabbage to your dog, dice it up into small pieces in order to prevent dogs from choking on the fibrous vegetable. While dogs can eat raw cabbage, boiled or steamed cabbage is less likely to cause them digestive upset. Be sure to thoroughly wash and remove the tough parts of cabbage, like the stem and core, before cooking.
Dogs should only eat cabbage that hasn’t been seasoned. The butter and spices that you might like on your cabbage aren’t good for your dog. Butter and other fatty foods can lead to pancreatitis, while spices like onions and garlic are toxic to dogs.
If you want to occasionally give cabbage to your dog, dice it up into small pieces in order to prevent dogs from choking on the fibrous vegetable. Be sure to monitor your dog closely after feeding them cabbage for the first time and watch for signs of gastrointestinal trouble.