Can dogs eat rutabaga? You may be asking this because you want to feed your furry friend a new snack. Humans can eat rutabaga, so is rutabaga also safe for dogs to eat?
The short answer is yes, rutabaga is safe for dogs to eat. Rutabaga, also known as cabbage turnips, are packed with vitamins and minerals for your pup.
However, as with every human food, be sure to contact your veterinarian before feeding your dog any new dietary additions. Here’s what you should know about feeding rutabaga to your dog.
How Is Rutabaga Good For Dogs?
Rutabaga is a low-calorie root veggie, meaning it can fill your dog up without packing on weight. If you’ve been advised that your dog needs to lose a couple of pounds, rutabaga may be a good snack option in place of other treats.
Another good option for a weight loss snack is bottle gourd.
Rutabaga is a great source of vitamins C, E, and K, all of which are essential to your pup’s health. Vitamin C helps boost your dog’s immune system, while vitamin E protects against oxidative damage by helping metabolize fat.
Vitamin K is used in the clotting of blood. A deficiency in vitamin K can cause anemia in dogs.
Other veggies with similar properties include Brussels sprouts and bell peppers.
How Can I Safely Give Rutabaga To My Dog?
Dogs can eat rutabaga both raw and cooked. You should buy organic rutabaga to ensure that your pup is getting the most out of this crunchy veggie.
Be sure to thoroughly wash your dog’s rutabaga to get rid of the dirt and bugs that like to live on ground veggies.
Whether you feed rutabaga to your pup raw or cooked, it’s best to cut it into smaller pieces to avoid choking.
If you choose to cook your dog’s rutabaga, steaming, boiling, or roasting the veggie are all great cooking options. Leave out the spices and oils, as these can upset your pup’s sensitive stomach.
Has your dog ever eaten rutabaga? Does your pooch enjoy it cooked or raw? Let us know in the comments below!
