Can Dogs Eat Spinach?
Every PAWrent wants to spoil their pup by giving them their fave snack or table scraps. After all, if humans can eat veggies or fruits without any risk, then it is safe to assume that pups can also consume them. However, not all human foods are safe for your furry friend. Some are downright dangerous and unhealthy. When you’re chowing down on that salad, you might wonder, “Can my dog eat spinach?”
This is actually quite a common question among dog owners. In this post, we are going to answer that question and fill you in on everything you need to know about dogs and spinach. Read on to learn more!
Quick Answer
Yes, dogs can eat spinach. But, take note that you should exercise caution and moderation when feeding your pup this vegetable. Spinach is rich in oxalic acid. This compound restricts the body from absorbing calcium. Also, it may damage your pup’s kidneys. To avoid this problem, make sure they consume spinach in small amounts.
Can Dogs Eat Spinach?
Spinach is one of the most controversial human foods that dogs eat. We know that wild dogs are naturally born more carnivorous. This means that they like meat more than vegetables. If they can’t get meat, they will turn to veggies as a food source. But, some studies claim that vegetables are not a requirement for dogs to thrive.
Some types of veggies are dog-friendly, such as spinach. When dogs eat spinach, you need to be careful as it contains a high level of oxalic acid. Make sure to give them only a few leaves of spinach as a snack.
Pros
Spinach is one of the few vegetables that are rich in vitamins K, C, B, and A. Aside from that, it is also rich in roughage, beta-carotene, antioxidants, and iron. All of these nutrients stimulate the digestive system. Now, you may be tempted to feed your dog spinach considering the nutrients it provides.
Take note that you don’t need to feed your pup with loads of spinach. A small amount is enough for them to reap all the benefits.
Cons
As we mentioned earlier, spinach contains a high level of oxalic acid. This compound acts as a barrier that blocks the absorption of nutrients your furry friend needs. Another problem with consuming too much spinach is that it can result in kidney failure. The soluble oxalates contain a notable amount of oxalic acid.
Once this compound enters your dog’s body, it combines with calcium and magnesium in the blood. This combination can lead to a sudden metabolic imbalance. Experts claim that consuming a large amount of spinach can lead to kidney problems and other related issues. Some other problems linked to spinach include respiratory paralysis, abnormal heartbeat, muscle weakness, and kidney stress.
Related Article: Is Cabbage Safe for Dogs to Eat?
Vegetable Dogs Can and Can’t Eat
Broccoli
Do you have lots of broccoli in your freezer? Feed some of it to your dog! But make sure to only give them small quantities. We recommend serving it as an occasional treat to your furry friend. Broccoli is rich in Vitamin C, fiber, and contains no fat. But, this veggie has isothiocyanates that could lead to an upset stomach.
Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a great source of beneficial antioxidants for dogs and humans. But if you feed your furry friend with Brussels sprouts, make sure to be careful and give them a tiny portion. Overfeeding them can cause your dog to release lots of gas.
Asparagus
Asparagus is a big NO for your dogs. Even though this veggie is not actually harmful to pups, vets do not recommend PAWrents to feed their dogs asparagus because it is difficult for canines to digest. Plus, this veggie has a rough texture that could irritate your dog’s throat when swallowed.
Mushrooms
Mushroom is one of the vegetables that your dog should avoid because of the toxins it releases. Even though only 100 species of mushrooms are considered to be toxic, it is still not recommended to feed them to your pup. Mushrooms release very poisonous toxins that could be fatal for your furry friend.
Benefits of Spinach for Dogs
- Stimulates the digestive tract
- Contains vitamins K, C, B, and A
- Rich source for roughage, antioxidants, iron, and beta carotene
- Steamed spinach is easy to digest
Spinach Nutrition Facts
Following are the nutritional benefits your dogs can get from every 100 grams of fresh spinach. The information listed below is provided by the USDA:
- 79 mg of Magnesium
- 558 mg of Potassium
- 28.1 mg of Vitamin C
- 2.03 mg of Vitamin E
- 12200 mcg of Lutein + zeaxanthin
- 9380 IU Vitamin A
- 2.2 grams of dietary fiber
- 3.63 grams of carbohydrates
- 0.39 grams of fat
- 2.86 grams of protein
- 23 Calories
Benefits of Feeding Spinach
Spinach is rich in essential nutrients like Vitamins E, C, and A, as well as magnesium and iron. Your dog may also absorb Popeye from this leafy green. Some studies claim that feeding your furry friend with a small amount of spinach once in a while can protect them from cardiovascular issues.
Consuming the right amount of spinach can also improve your dog’s immunity and energy levels. Even though spinach is one of the healthiest veggies, it’s undeniable that consuming too much can cause damage. As mentioned, dogs are naturally carnivorous. This means that around 85 percent of their diet should contain meat.
When dogs eat too much spinach, it can lead to nutrient deficiencies. As a responsible PAWrent, you want to ensure that your pup is eating a balanced diet. So, make sure to feed them proportionate amounts of meat, veggies, and fruit.
Is Spinach Good for Dogs?
Spinach is a good source of vitamins and other nutrients that your dog needs. But, we do not recommend giving your furry friend a large quantity of spinach regularly. Small amounts prevent kidney complications caused by oxalic acid.
Is Spinach Toxic for Dogs?
Spinach is not a toxic vegetable to feed your dog. But if you plan to feed your canine with spinach, just make sure to give them a limited portion only. Take note that your dog’s digestive tract does not process vegetables as easily as meat.
How to Prepare Spinach for Your Dog
Steaming your spinach before giving it to your furry friend is more advisable than boiling it. This is because boiling water can reduce the nutrients in spinach. Also, your canine is not capable of digesting raw vegetables. When steaming the spinach, make sure not to add any other ingredients, including garlic, onion, oil, salt, herbs, and spices. These can be toxic for your dog.
How to Keep Spinach Safe for Dogs
To keep the spinach safe for dogs, make sure to prepare it steamed without any toxic ingredients such as spices, herbs, and more. Also, ensure you only prepare a portion of spinach that’s enough for your dog to consume for a day. By doing so, you can prevent food scraps while ensuring the safety of your pup.
References:
- 26 Vegetables Dogs Can & Can't Eat https://petcube.com/blog/dog-vegetables/
- Can Dogs Eat Spinach https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-my-dog-eat-spinach/