Can Dogs Eat Brussels Sprouts?

Brussels sprouts on green background

Brussels sprouts can be an excellent addition to your dog’s dinner bowl. They resemble tiny cabbages and can be a quick and tasty snack for your dog. Brussels sprouts are packed with vitamins, minerals, fibers, and antioxidants, despite their distinctive taste. However, many dog owners often ask, “Can dogs eat Brussels sprouts?”

Fiber and antioxidants in Brussels sprouts aid in reducing inflammation in the body and improving circulation. So, Brussels sprouts are safe for dogs to consume. Additionally, the bones and immune system of dogs may also benefit from these vegetables, which are rich in vitamin B6, K, and C. Additionally, Brussels sprouts contain vitamins A, B1, manganese, potassium, and folate, which is also good for your dog’s health.

However, Brussels sprouts should only be offered to your dog once in a very small amount to three times a day, depending on your dog breed’s size and with the recommendation of your vet. You should remove the hard, nubby stem from each Brussels sprout before slicing them in half. It’s best to cook them before serving them, otherwise, they can be difficult to eat. But don’t offer your dog the gourmet Brussels sprouts you make for yourself. Instead, cook a few for your dog using only a little olive oil. Neither dogs nor cats should consume onions, garlic, butter, pepper, salt, or vinegar. Make sure that you don’t overcook Brussels sprouts, otherwise they will lose their nutritional value.

cocker spaniel puppy eating from bowl

More on Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts are cruciferous vegetables high in nutrients and are good for both humans and dogs. As a member of the vitamin K family, Brussels sprouts help in enhancing bone growth and heart health.

The Brussels sprouts are low in calories and carbohydrates, but high in fiber. Brussels sprouts have only 28 calories and two grams of fiber per half-cup serving. These are ideal treats for overweight dogs or dogs suffering from diabetes.

Brussels is known to improve blood circulation, and antioxidants reduce inflammation. This vegetable also contains compounds that can help protect against free radicals.

bowl of Brussels sprouts on rustic background

Benefits of Giving Brussels Sprouts to Your Dog

Brussels sprouts, carrots, and some small pieces of meat are totally fine as treats, if it suits your dog; however, it’s not advisable to feed your pup large quantities of it, as it may lead to serious health issues. The bottom line is your dog doesn’t need a stomach pump if they’ve eaten a bit of Brussels sprouts. Contact your local veterinarian if your dog starts showing any abnormal symptoms from this new food (signs and symptoms to look out for are listed below this article). It is true that some dogs may have adverse reactions to Brussels sprouts when they consume them. Additionally, as complained by most dog owners, most dogs don’t experience any significant health benefits than a few health concerns from Brussels sprouts.

Dietary Fiber

Fiber is important for your dog’s digestive system, and Brussels sprouts have plenty of fiber to ensure healthy bowel movements. Water does not dissolve insoluble fiber, such as what is found in Brussels sprouts, so it remains intact throughout the intestines, thereby drawing water into the stool. As a result, the food is pulled through the system and the waste is excreted, reducing the chances of stomach issues, constipation, and diarrhea.

Vitamin K

Prothrombin, a protein essential for bone metabolism, is a significant component of this fat-soluble vitamin. Vitamin K also helps reduce the risk of heart disease by regulating calcium levels in the blood and promoting healthy circulation.

Your dog’s metabolism is boosted by vitamins B1, B6, and B12 because they assist in the release of energy from food. Additionally, they support your dog’s nervous system and help make new cells.

Antioxidants

The antioxidants in Brussels sprouts can protect your dog against many illnesses. With the help of the antioxidant present in Brussels sprouts, your dog’s health is protected from oxidative cell damage caused by free radicals. Along with this, antioxidants have some important cognitive benefits for older dogs.

Your dog needs several powerful antioxidants to increase its immunity, combat inflammation, and prevent cancers and heart attacks.

Weight Loss

Dietary fiber present in Brussels sprouts is known to slow digestion. It aids weight loss by maintaining fullness after meals. In obese or diabetic dogs, Brussels sprouts are an acceptable treat because they are low in calories and sugar.

With all these health benefits, it might seem that Brussels sprouts don’t have a lot of downsides for your dog. However, you should know a few things about these crunchy vegetables before giving them to your dog, for instance, it is important to know if your dog is allergic to these vegetables or not.

Kaempferol

The sprouts also contain certain antioxidants, including kaempferol, extensively studied for their health-enhancing properties. Researchers have shown that antioxidants such as kaempferol are beneficial for reducing cancer cell growth, and inflammation reactions, and improving heart and bloodstream health.

Isothiocyanates

Isothiocyanates act as phytonutrients. They can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and cognitive aging.

Minerals

Calcium, potassium, and manganese are among the minerals found in Brussels sprouts. A dog’s bones, fluid balance, cellular function, nervous system, muscle function, and overall health are all supported by their functions.

Can Dogs Eat Raw Brussels Sprouts?

If offered in a size that dogs could safely consume, most dogs would be able to handle a few uncooked sprouts. However, when a dog is offered a raw sprout, it’s highly unlikely that they will eat them. Instead, they may be offered cooked Brussels sprouts, after consulting with your vet. If you decide upon preparing Brussels sprouts, you should make sure your dog’s diet is based on fresh and not rotten or overly ripe Brussels sprouts.

Brussels sprouts can cause some dogs to gag, but don’t be surprised if your pup downs them without hesitation.

cute young small white dog wearing a modern bowtie

How to Serve Brussels Sprouts to your Dog?

If you are consider giving your dog new food, you should always talk to your dog’s veterinarian first. In addition to knowing your dog’s health, their veterinarian can tell you what kind of food is best for your dog. For example, your dog’s vet might ask you to choose organic Brussels sprouts with green leaves without wilted or brown spots. Make sure your dog gets fresh sprouts because old ones may cause watery stools.

Cut the stem off your Brussels sprouts and wash them to remove any chemicals or pesticides that could upset your dog’s stomach. Next, Brussels sprouts should be cooked with steam, boiled, or microwaved, for the easiest digestion. It is recommended that you steam your sprouts to preserve their nutritional value and antioxidant properties. Boiling Brussels sprouts is not a good option because the nutrients will leach out into the water, robbing the sprouts of their nutritional values.

Many dogs gulp their food, making frozen Brussels sprouts a choking hazard. Cooked Brussels sprouts are a better option.

Additionally, you shouldn’t add seasoning or oils to your dog’s food because they will upset his stomach, leading to pancreatitis, or worse. It is toxic for your dog to eat onions, garlic, or salt, no matter how delicious they are to humans. A dog’s digestive system is sensitive to fats and oils, so avoid giving him seasoned Brussels sprouts or butter on his food.

Dogs of different sizes can eat different amounts of Brussels sprouts. The dog’s size doesn’t matter; larger dogs can eat as many sprouts as they like. Ensure you are feeding your pet the proper amount without giving him stinky sprout gas by checking with your vet!

The first time you feed your dog a sprout, give them 12 to 14 pieces with your vet’s recommendation. Afterward, be on the lookout for signs of discomfort or gas, which may arise in a few hours or less. Contact your veterinarian if you see any discomfort beyond odorous gas.

You should follow the 90/10 rule when giving your dog any food aside from regular food. Balanced dog food should provide 90 percent of your dog’s calories, and healthy treats should account for the remaining 10 percent.

Cooked Brussels sprouts in a cast iron pan

Can Brussels Sprouts Cause Harm To My Dog?

Unless you know what risks are associated with feeding your dog Brussels sprouts, you cannot determine whether it is safe. Although, there are a few key things to keep in mind when feeding your dog Brussels sprouts. Here’s what you need to remember:

Cause Diarrhea

A high fiber diet can result in hypermotility or excessive digestive tract movement. The fiber in some dogs’ diets can cause loose stools and in some cases, diarrhea for dogs who are more sensitive to it. Dogs with other dietary requirements won’t be affected by adding fiber. After eating Brussels sprouts, many dogs experience increased flatulence.

The symptoms tend to disappear when the increased gas is removed from their systems. Immediately contact your veterinarian if you notice that your dog shows signs of uncomfortable behavior due to extreme gas from Brussels sprouts .

Cause Allergic Reaction

Brussels sprouts are always possible to be allergic to in dogs. Any food can trigger an intolerance or an allergy in dogs. Do not feed your dog this food if you suspect he is allergic to Brussels sprouts.

When your dog accidentally consumes Brussels sprouts and they are allergic, take them to your nearest animal emergency room as soon as you can. A hypersensitive reaction occurs as a result of the attack. The following symptoms can occur as a result:

  • Nausea/vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Itching/Increased grooming
  • Fever
  • Lethargy

Cause Gas Problem

Brussels sprouts are high in isothiocyanate, a chemical that increases the intestinal muscle’s ability to move food and waste through the digestive system. This causes bacteria to build up inside the body, which escapes through the breath as gas.

Stomach Pain

As this healthy vegetable contains no chemicals or poisons, your dog will not suffer any stomach upset from eating it. However, the pet should be examined by a veterinarian if stomach pain and diarrhea do not disappear on their own.

Can Roasted Brussels Sprouts Cause Harm To My Dog?

Dogs can eat roasted Brussels sprouts, as long as no seasonings or other cooking products were used in the cooking process. Due to the softer texture and stronger smell of a cooked Brussels sprout, your dog is more likely to accept it than if you were to give it a raw one.

labrador retriever puppy is eating some dog food out of humans hand outside during golden sunset

How Many Sprouts Can My Dog Eat?

As long as the dog is adult and healthy, he or she is safe to eat a Brussels sprout or two.

A small to a medium-size dog can handle half to one cooked Brussels sprout, whereas a large to a giant-size dog may be able to handle 1-3 cooked Brussels sprouts after ramping up. So, the first time you give your large dog-cooked Brussels sprouts, don’t give them too much.

Your dog may experience digestive issues, increased flatulence (stinky dog gas), and other bodily conditions due to eating too many Brussels sprouts. Before starting your pet on Brussels sprouts, it is highly recommended that you consult with your vet first and that you start with a small number of sprouts, and gradually increase it over time. Brussels sprouts typically go a long way with a little bit of salt. Taking precautions is always a wise move. Consult your veterinarian about Brussels sprout serving sizes for your dog.

Downsides Of Brussels Sprouts for Dogs

You should give your dog a hearty helping of Brussels sprouts every day if your vet recommends. However, anyone who regularly eats them knows that they come with a downside: gas- tons and tons of gas. As a result of the high level of isothiocyanate present in sprouts, the gastrointestinal tract is better able to push food and waste through. Consequently, the gastrointestinal tract accumulates gas due to an excess of bacteria.

Modest amounts tend to soothe the discomfort. Excessive amounts can result in a stomach upset and diarrhea in your dog. However, even small amounts of Brussels sprouts will cause stomach upset.

In addition, although you may be frightened, your dog will not be hurt by it. It doesn’t contain toxins or poisons, so there’s no reason to worry if your pooch experiences tummy upset or flatulence after eating this highly nutritious veggie. Symptoms that last longer than a few days should be discussed with your vet. Isothiocyanates are present in Brussels sprouts, as they are in all vegetables of the cruciferous family.

Intestinal muscles help to push food and waste through the digestive system when these phytonutrients are present. Furthermore, they build excess bacteria – tiny organisms that help in digestion by assisting in fermentation. Excess bacteria are eliminated by creating gas, which is what these organisms do. The smell of dog farts may fill your house if your dog eats too many Brussels sprouts.

In addition, Brussels sprout stalk may be very hard and fibrous for your dog. Your dog may choke when consuming them, or they can cause intestinal obstructions or impaction problems. Nevertheless, if you peel the outer skin off the stalk, you can feed it to your dog without worrying. You can also cook and chop the leaves before you feed them to your dog.

A dog cannot digest raw Brussels sprouts. Raw foods will cause your dog’s digestive system to have a hard time digesting their fiber.

Brussels sprouts on wooden surface

Final Verdict

The Brussels sprout belongs to the Brassica plant species and is a cruciferous crop. A cruciferous vegetable is a member of the cabbage family. In addition to these, they’re members of the mustard plant family, along with broccoli, kale, arugula, cabbage, radishes, and watercress.

Brussels sprouts can have a strong impact on a dog’s digestive tract, so pet owners need to take them seriously. Otherwise, you might have to make an escape outside because of your dog’s flatulence! Brussels sprouts can be safe to eat, but they can cause gastrointestinal problems, such as diarrhea and gas. Whenever you introduce human food to your dog, be sure to consult your veterinarian.

This sprout contains a lot of isothiocyanates, which is a substance that helps the intestinal muscle move digested foods through the intestine. Excess gas isn’t the result of this compound; however, excess amounts of bacteria build up in the gut, causing extreme flatulence. Brussels sprouts can be a healthy treat for your dog if served in the right manner. As a rich source of vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, Brussels sprouts can help lower inflammation while promoting your dog’s overall health.

Vitamin C is another important antioxidant present in Brussels sprouts, which strengthens the immune system. There is evidence that it can reduce systemic inflammation and protect the cells against cancer in dogs. Furthermore, sprouts contain both B1 and B6 vitamins. Your dog’s body utilizes vitamin B1, otherwise known as thiamine, to produce energy from carbohydrates. Thiamine is quite essential for a dog’s health, brain, nerves, and organs.

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