Can dogs eat Basella alba? You may be asking this because you’re interested in giving your pup a leafy green veggie. Humans can eat Basella alba, so is it also safe for dogs to eat?
The short answer is yes, Basella alba is safe for dogs to eat. Basella alba, commonly called Malabar spinach, is a good source of nutrients for your pup and can improve their overall health.
As always, you must ask your vet before giving your dog any human foods or introducing new ingredients into their diet. Here’s what you should know about feeding Basella alba to your dog.
How Is Basella Alba Good For Dogs?
Basella alba is a superfood, full of vitamins and minerals that are essential to your doggo’s wellbeing. It contains vitamins E, C, A, B9, and K, just to name a few.
Vitamin E is crucial for cell function and metabolizing fat, and vitamin C aids in boosting your dog’s immune system. A boost in vitamin A consumption can help strengthen your pup’s muscles, skin, and coat.
Vitamin B9, also known as folate or folic acid, is also essential for cell growth and function in addition to providing an immunity boost.
Dogs’ bodies use vitamin K to clot blood, and a deficiency of this vitamin, which can occur naturally but is most often seen in dogs who have ingested rat poisoning, can actually cause internal bleeding.
In addition to containing a plethora of vitamins, Basella alba also contains soluble and insoluble fibers, both of which are good for gut health and digestion.
On top of the health benefits Basella alba provides, some dogs simply like the unique flavor that the leaves have. In fact, some dog foods even have it as an ingredient. With all of the benefits Basella alba provides, it is absolutely a wonderful option for your furry friend.
How Can I Safely Give Basella Alba To My Dog?
If you plan on giving Basella alba to your dog, you should consider buying an organic option to assure that the plant has retained the most vitamins and minerals.
While dogs can eat raw Basella alba, it’s better to cook it before feeding it to your dog, as it’s easier for them to digest. You can blanch or steam it for your furry friend.
Another thing to keep in mind when feeding your dog Basella alba is that dogs do not digest whole leaves like humans do.
If you have the time and the ability, consider pureeing cooked Basella alba before feeding it to your dog. You might even consider freezing pureed Basella alba and a little bit of water in an ice cube tray to make tasty popsicles for your buddy.
All in all, preparation for this veggie is similar to that of other leafy greens you might feed your dog.
Have you fed your dog Basella alba? What are some other creative ways to feed your dog leafy greens? Tell us in the comments below!
