Can dogs eat salsify? Have you ever even heard of such a thing? Technically, salsify is a root that looks like a stick we’d throw for our dog to fetch. But is it safe for our dogs to eat?
The short answer is yes, cooked salsify is actually extremely nutritious for dogs. If your dog happens to enjoy oysters, they might really like salsify, too. It’s also known as the oyster plant, even though it has no relation outside of a taste reminiscent of this seafood.
However, new additions to your dog’s diet should always be run by a veterinarian before introduction. But in the meantime, here’s what you should know about how salsify is safe for dogs.
How Is Salsify Good For Dogs?
Salsify is a root vegetable, many of which are safe for dogs, such as carrots, turnips, and potatoes, with a few outliers like garlic and onions, which are toxic. So, where does salsify fall on this spectrum?
It falls on the safe side, especially for humans suffering from diabetes. Black salsify contains natural insulin and aids greatly in pancreatic processes.
Closely related to dandelions, salsify is rich in fiber and nutrients, low in calories, and has been known to aid in both digestion and weight loss. It’s loaded with calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, copper, iron, vitamin C, B, potassium, and antioxidants.
Basically, this little root vegetable is a powerhouse for metabolic function and keeping other vital canine systems strong and healthy. It may look like a stick, but it has way more to offer.
Playing fetch with raw salsify, though, definitely wouldn’t be a good idea. Take caution to safely serve salsify to your dog so they benefit from its nutritional wealth.
How Can I Safely Give Salsify To My Dog?
First, you’ll have to find it salsify. This isn’t something available in your standard grocery store, at least not in the United States. More and more, though, this little root is growing in popularity as humans become aware of its health benefits.
Black salsify is noted to have the strongest oyster flavor, which your dog may enjoy. Other forms of salsify are reported to have less of an oyster flavor and more of an asparagus or artichoke flavor.
So, how do our dogs get to benefit?
Salsify is a root, in its basic form. It’s rough and must be cooked to avoid a choking hazard or intestinal obstruction. Really, this is the case for humans, as well. Salsify is also just too difficult to work with before cooking it.
When mature salsify root is boiled, baked, or steamed, it can be served to dogs. You may just want to peel the exterior layer off with a peeler like you would a potato. Then, cut it up into bite-sized pieces, or mince it up into a larger homecooked meal for your dog.
Have you ever given your dog salsify? Did they enjoy the flavor of it? Let us know in the comments below.
