Can dogs eat eggplant? Maybe you’ve found yourself wondering if you could share a bite with your dog while preparing some eggplant ahead of a hearty eggplant parm for a Sunday feast. If humans can eat eggplant, can dogs safely eat it too?
There is no short yes or no answer to whether dogs can eat eggplant safely. Technically, eggplant is not poisonous to dogs, and it contains a decent amount of vitamins and minerals.
But quite a number of dogs can actually be allergic to eggplant, and canines who experience arthritis or kidney problems should also avoid eggplant.
As always, you must ask your veterinarian before sharing any new human foods with your dog. Here’s what you need to know about eggplant and dogs.
When Is Eggplant Okay For Dogs To Eat?
Eggplant is not toxic to dogs. When it comes to the nutritional benefits of feeding your dog some eggplant, the vegetable contains good amounts of vitamin B6 and K plus the minerals niacin, potassium and folate.
Additionally, eggplant is a low calorie food that also contains a beneficial amount of fiber, which makes it a useful addition to the diet of any dogs looking to lose a little weight.
When Is Eggplant Bad For Dogs?
If you decide to add some eggplant to your dog’s diet, it’s always best to cook it before serving. While dogs can technically consume raw eggplant, it can be a little tricky to digest in its uncooked form.
Make sure to cook any eggplant you serve very plainly and avoid the use of additional oils, spices, and salt.
The main potential problem with serving eggplant to dogs is that a fair amount of pups are allergic to it. This also applies to other vegetables in the nightshade family, such as tomatoes.
If your dog is allergic to eggplant, they might experience symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, and bouts of itchiness.
Additionally, any dogs who suffer from kidney issues or arthritis should also avoid consuming eggplant as it may exacerbate their condition.
Has your dog ever tried a few bites of eggplant? How did they feel afterward? Let us know in the comments below!
