What Vegetables Can Dogs Eat? (19 to Go for & 8 to Avoid)

Dogs, like their wolf ancestors, need protein-heavy diets. Over centuries of domestication and life with humans, canines have grown to love certain vegetables, too. This doesn’t mean plopping a salad down in front of Luna and calling it a day! It means thoughtfully considering what your dog needs and supplementing their current, well-balanced diet with healthy veggies (or fruits). For instance, the fiber in pumpkin can help dogs with diarrhea better digest their food and carrots, which are low in calories and high in vitamins, can be a delicious alternative to preservative-riddled dog treats. Of course, some vegetables may cause more harm than good in dogs prone to diabetes or kidney issues, which is why you’ve got to do your research before tossing new foods at your pup. As long as you stick to our list of vegetables dogs can eat (and avoid the vegetables known to be toxic to canines), your dog will be a happy pet with a well-rounded diet.

Note: Talk to your vet before changing your dog’s diet or adding any of the vegetables below. You’ll also want to find out the best way to prepare these veggies for your dog’s specific needs and to avoid choking hazards.

According to Bridget Meadows, Head of Food at Ollie, a company that makes human-grade meals for dogs, it’s safe to feed canines vegetables as long as you ensure their diet is between 40- and 70-percent protein. Protein could be plant-based (like legumes), but more often than not, muscle meats, organ meats and eggs are ideal forms of protein.

Brett Podolsky, co-founder of The Farmer's Dog, a service that delivers balanced, fresh pet food made with real ingredients and simple recipes, says extra vegetables shouldn’t make up more than 10 percent of a dog’s diet. But that 10 percent can add significant nutrients proteins can’t offer.

Of course, how much of your dog’s diet comes from vegetables will vary based on your pup’s activity level, age, breed, health issues and veterinarian recommendation. For instance, a vet may recommend switching out standard dog treats for carrots and apples if your dog needs to maintain a healthier weight. Both Ollie and The Farmer’s Dog incorporate vegetables directly into their recipes, making your job much easier.

Podolsky also notes studies have found green leafy vegetables may reduce the risk of cancers in some dogs. So, if you own a breed predisposed to cancer, like a Golden retriever, adding these veggies to your dog’s diet in the form of snacks during long walks or mixed in with their favorite kibble is a good idea.

“Vegetables [are] a great source of hydration because of their high water content,” says Podolsky. “They can also provide your dog with an assortment of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fiber, and phytonutrients, which are natural compounds found in plants that have disease-fighting potential.”

As with any healthy diet, your dog should be consuming a variety of foods to maintain well-balanced nutrition. Strange behaviors like eating grass or their own poop could indicate some key elements are missing from your dog’s diet.

Finally, do not apply human guidelines to your canine pals! While humans indulge in spices and seasonings, many herbs can irritate your dog’s stomach. Whole Pet Wellness says paprika, allspice, bay leaves and garlic are just a few spices toxic to dogs. And while you can live on a grain-free diet, dogs need healthy grains. In fact, grain-free diets are not good for dogs.

• Method: Raw or cooked, chopped
• Frequency: In moderation
• Avoid if: You own a breed prone to bloat, like a Great Dane

Dogs can definitely eat cabbage, though it might cause a gassy reaction. It contains vitamins B1, B6, C and K, not to mention tons of phytonutrients. These are antioxidants that improve the overall health of dogs—and humans—who consume them. Red cabbage is also a safe choice for down owners looking to boost their pet’s fiber, manganese, copper and potassium levels. Dr. Jerry Klein at the American Kennel Club says moderation is key, especially in breeds who tend to bloat or dogs with sensitive digestive systems.

• Method: Raw or cooked, chopped
• Frequency: A few carrot slices for small breeds up to a handful for large breeds, per PetMD
• Avoid if: Your dog has diabetes, as carrots do contain natural sugar

The ASPCA says carrots are an ideal snack for dogs because they can be eaten raw, are low in calories and don’t create much gas (which dog owners know can be a problem, especially with some veggies). Carrots provide vitamins B, C, D, E and K, not to mention lots of fiber.

• Method: Cooked/steamed
• Frequency: Small quantities
• Avoid if: You own a breed prone to bloat

Cauliflower is safe in small quantities. Like other cruciferous vegetables on our list, it can lead to uncomfortable gas, which means breeds prone to bloat should be monitored closely and given only small amounts. Best served lightly steamed, cauliflower provides vitamins B, C, and K, and omega-3 fatty acids—all great for the immune system.

• Method: Raw or cooked, chopped
• Frequency: About a handful per day
• Avoid if: You dog has dental problems or is dehydrated

It feels like celery works overtime to bring good things to our dogs. Full of vitamins A, B and C, it goes above and beyond to freshen your dog’s breath. Vitamin A helps boost your dog’s vision. (Pro tip: Crunchy veggies help remove tartar from a dog’s teeth - though the fibers may get caught in between their chompers!) One drawback that Pumpkin Pet Insurance notes is that celery contains sodium and can cause more frequent urination in dogs. Dehydrated dogs shouldn’t be given celery.

• Method: Raw, chopped
• Frequency: In moderation

The AKC says cucumbers, on the other hand, are ideal for dogs who need to hydrate or maintain a healthier weight. Cucumbers boost energy yet have a low caloric count. Dogs will get an infusion of vitamins B1, C and K when they eat cucumbers, not to mention potassium, copper, magnesium, and biotin.

• Method: Raw or cooked, chopped
• Frequency: Occasional treat
• Avoid if: Your dog is prone to kidney stones, has osteoporosis or diabetes

Many root vegetables are great for healthy coats and digestion in canines. Beets add vitamin C, fiber, folate, manganese and potassium to a meal. They can also help your dog better absorb other nutrients. The AKC warns against beets as treats for dogs with diabetes, osteoporosis or kidney issues due to the vegetable’s natural nutrients and sugars. If you do have a diabetic dog, be sure to check out our list of what fruits dogs can eat before chopping up a banana for your pup.

• Method: Raw or cooked, chopped
• Frequency: In moderation
• Avoid if: Your dog has digestive or gas issues

Like cauliflower, broccoli can cause gas. This can be a smelly experience for you and an incredibly uncomfortable experience for your dog. That being said, broccoli delivers vitamins A, C, E and K, not to mention tons of fiber and almost no fat. Be sure to chop well—the stalks can get lodged in your dog’s throat if they’re too big.

• Method: Cooked and chopped, never raw
• Frequency: In moderation
• Avoid if: Your dog has digestive or gas issues

Brussels sprouts boost immunity (vitamin C) and bone health (vitamin K). Plus, they provide antioxidants that fight against inflammation. Slowly introduce Brussels sprouts into your dog’s diet to see how they adjust since these can cause gas, too. Pumpkin Pet Insurance also says Brussels sprouts should always be cooked for dogs, to make them easier to consume and digest.

• Method: Cooked, pureed
• Frequency: Small amounts

If your dog needs foods rich in vitamins A, B6 and C to improve her immune or cardiovascular systems, go for some butternut squash. It’s low in calories, high in nutrients (an ideal combo) and typically gentle on the tummy. The Wildest says cooking butternut squash to give it a softer texture is ideal for feeding to dogs. You could even try it as a Kong filler if your dog loves it.

• Method: Chopped, steamed, raw, or canned (low sodium only)
• Frequency: In moderation
• Avoid if: Your dog needs to gain weight

Another crunchy veggie (when served raw)! Green beans are also safe to serve steamed or canned, as long as they are plain and unsalted. Join your dog in a green bean snack, because you could both benefit from vitamins A, C and K, folic acid and fiber. The AKC says green beans can be effective weight loss treats for obese dogs, which means any pup trying to gain weight should avoid this vegetable!

• Method: Raw, steamed, blanched
• Frequency: Occasional supplement to food
• Avoid if: Your dog has kidney, bladder or digestive issues

Kale is a superfood for a reason. It’s known for its ability to boost bone health, vision and immunity. How? Vitamins A and K, the latter of which is a significant source of calcium. Kale also contains iron, the element responsible for healthy red blood cells and blood oxygen levels. Both butternut squash and kale are included in Ollie’s lamb recipe. PetMD warns that kale’s calcium content isn’t good for dogs with existing or potential kidney or bladder problems.

• Method: Raw and chopped, cooked and pureed or mashed
• Frequency: Occasional treat

Parsnips aren’t typically the first vegetable we think of when we consider feeding our dog new treats. But, these veggies are full of folic acid (good for the nervous system), potassium and vitamins B6 and C. If your dog has kidney issues, consider adding parsnips into her diet after consulting with your vet.

• Method: Cooked, frozen, raw, chopped (if in shell/pod)
• Frequency: In moderation
• Avoid if: Your dog has kidney issues

A few peas here and there will add a small dose of fiber and protein to your dog’s diet. These are essential if your dog cannot or will not eat meat products. Ollie includes peas (and sweet potatoes) in their beef recipe. The AKC says dogs with kidney issues should avoid peas due to the vegetable’s high uric acid content.

• Method: Raw or cooked, chopped, seeded
• Frequency: Up to one bell pepper per day, depending on your dog’s size

It’s surprising that bell peppers haven’t yet replaced the orange as the poster child for vitamin C. These veggies contain three times as much vitamin C as oranges and make great low-calorie snacks for dogs. PetMD suggests steaming peppers to soften their exterior skin—and triple checking to make sure you’re not feeding spicy pepper varieties to your pup!

• Method: Cooked, chopped or pureed, ideally without skin
• Frequency: In moderation
• Avoid if: Your dog is obese or trying to lose weight

Dogs can definitely eat potatoes, as long as they are cooked all the way through and served without toppings. (French fries don’t count here, people.) Purina says raw potatoes contain large quantities of solanine which can be toxic, so it’s recommended to steam and puree or bake a potato before serving it to a canine. Potatoes also provide vitamin B6, iron and magnesium, which are good vitamins and minerals.

• Method: Canned, pureed, steamed
• Frequency: In moderation

Canned pumpkin is often better to serve your dog than raw pumpkin, as it’s easier to digest. Be sure to buy the regular canned pumpkin, not pumpkin pie filling. Pumpkin has been known to help dogs dealing with constipation, according to Hill’s Pet Nutrition, and its beta-carotene can boost vision health. Pumpkin seeds are OK to feed to dogs, as long as they are not coated in oils, butter or salt.

• Method: Cooked, pureed, chopped
• Frequency: In moderation
• Avoid if: Your dog has diabetes

Another all-star when it comes to improving digestion! Sweet potatoes have tons of fiber, not to mention vitamins B6 (for brain health) and C. Like carrots, sweet potatoes contain beta-carotene which improves vision and skin. Like beets, sweet potatoes are higher in natural sugar, so dogs with diabetes should steer clear, according to Better Vet.

• Method: Cooked or raw
• Frequency: Occasional snack
• Avoid if: Your dog has kidney issues

Rich in iron and magnesium, spinach can be a terrific addition to a canine diet. Vitamins A, C and E also make this leafy green veggie a winner (plus, it can fight against cancer, cardiovascular disease and inflammation). The AKC does warn that too much could be harmful due to oxalic acid which can cause kidney damage if overconsumed (small amount are still totally safe).

• Method: Raw or cooked, chopped
• Frequency: Small amounts

Zucchini fortifies your dog’s bones, heart and kidneys with calcium, vitamin A and potassium. As with peppers, try steaming to soften the skin (zucchini is known for retaining its nutrient density even after cooking, unlike some vegetables). 

The AKC says asparagus isn’t toxic to dogs, but it doesn’t offer enough nutrition value to make serving it to them worth it. They could also choke if it’s not chopped or cooked properly.

While many dry dog food brands use corn in their recipes, corn itself doesn’t offer tons of nutritional value to dogs. It’s not toxic, it’s just not remarkable. Corn on the cob, however, is dangerous. It’s a big time choking hazard for canines and shouldn’t be given to them under any circumstances.

Garlic is part of the allium plant family and contains thiosulfate, an inorganic compound that reacts negatively with dog systems. Eating garlic could lead to anemia, which causes lethargy, weakness and jaundice, according to the ASPCA.

Another allium family member. These plants can cause immediate vomiting, diarrhea, nausea and an upset stomach. If a lot is ingested, a canine’s red blood cells may rupture.

While mushrooms we buy at the grocery store are safe for consumption, they aren’t typically appealing to dogs nor do they surpass other veggies in terms of nutritional value. Wild mushrooms should definitely be avoided, as many are poisonous and could cause internal damage and even death.

As part of the allium plant family, onions (and chives!) are poisonous to dogs and should never be given to them. If you’re unsure if your dog has ingested leeks, onions, chives or garlic, look for dark yellow urine, a dramatic decline in energy levels, unusual bowel movements and vomiting. Call your vet immediately!

Rhubarb contains oxalates, an organic compound that could lead to kidney stones or nervous system issues in canines. If eaten in large quantities, rhubarb can also decrease the amount of calcium present in your dog’s bones, which is no good.

A ripe tomato? Nothing to worry about—just watch your dog for signs of distress. An unripe tomato or the leaves and stem of the tomato plant? Toxic. These parts of the tomato contain solanine which can cause lethargy, confusion and vomiting.