Can Dogs Eat Broccoli?
Broccoli—it’s one of those veggies that always sparks a debate at the dinner table. Some people love it, some push it to the edge of their plate, but what about our dogs? If you’ve ever been mid-meal and caught your pup giving you those “please share” eyes, you might have wondered: can dogs eat broccoli? And, more specifically, can dogs eat raw broccoli or cooked broccoli safely?
The short answer: yes, but there are a few things to know first.
Can Dogs Eat Broccoli?
Broccoli is a nutrient-packed vegetable loaded with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants that can help support your dog’s overall health. Vitamin C helps with immune support, while vitamin K plays a role in blood health and bone strength. Broccoli is also low in calories, which makes it a healthy treat option—especially if your pup is watching their waistline.
But there’s a small catch: broccoli contains compounds called isothiocyanates. While safe in small amounts, too much broccoli can cause digestive upset, leading to gassiness or discomfort. That doesn’t mean to avoid it entirely; it just means moderation is key. Think of broccoli as an occasional snack or part of a balanced diet—not the main course.
Can Dogs Eat Raw Broccoli?
Raw broccoli keeps all its nutrients intact, which is great, but it’s also tougher to chew and digest. For smaller dogs especially, raw broccoli can be a choking hazard if given in large chunks. If you want to share raw broccoli with your dog, cut it into small, bite-sized florets. Start with just a little at a time and watch how your pup reacts. Some dogs tolerate it just fine, while others might get a bit gassy.
Can Dogs Eat Cooked Broccoli?
Cooked broccoli is often a safer option for dogs because it’s softer, easier to chew, and easier to digest. Steaming or boiling lightly (with no added oils, butter, or spices) is best. Avoid using seasonings like garlic, onion, or salt—those can be harmful to dogs.
How Much Broccoli Is Safe for Dogs?
Even though broccoli is healthy, moderation is essential. Treats (including broccoli) should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. Signs that your dog might have had too much include gas, bloating, or diarrhea. If you notice those symptoms, scale back the portions next time.
Broccoli in Raw Dog Food
So, why do raw pet food companies like us include broccoli in their recipes? Because broccoli is packed with fiber, antioxidants, and natural phytonutrients that support a healthy gut, immune function, and overall vitality!
We use whole-food ingredients like broccoli because we believe pets deserve food that looks like food—not overly processed pellets with artificial vitamins added later. In fact, our raw dog food recipes are formulated to be complete and balanced, meaning they have the right ratio of meat, organ, bone, and plant-based superfoods like broccoli.
When broccoli is included as part of a raw diet, it’s carefully portioned to avoid overloading your pet with fiber or isothiocyanates. And because it’s included in a raw, biologically appropriate format, your pet gets all the natural goodness without any of the worry about prep work on your end. It’s already balanced and safe—no chopping, cooking, or guesswork required.
Final Thoughts
So, can dogs eat broccoli? Yes! Whether raw or cooked, broccoli can be a healthy, low-calorie treat for your pup when given in moderation. Just be mindful of portion sizes and avoid seasonings. And if prepping broccoli for your dog sounds like one more thing on your already busy plate, we’ve got you covered.
At Steve’s Real Food, we’ve done the work for you. Our complete and balanced raw dog food includes wholesome ingredients like broccoli, perfectly portioned for your dog’s health and happiness. Give your pet the best food nature has to offer—buy online and have raw dog food delivered to your door today.
