Asparagus for dogs – allowed or toxic?
You love asparagus yourself and while preparing the green or white spears, you wonder if your dog might also be allowed to eat some asparagus? The answer is: Yes! In fact, when prepared correctly, asparagus is a →delicious and healthy vegetable for your four-legged friend.
Green asparagus is rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. White asparagus contains much more water, has fewer minerals and vitamins, but is still a healthy and low-calorie snack for your dog.
Are you unsure what you can feed and what you can't? Take a look at our →list of toxic foods for dogs or get free advice from us →on your four-legged friend's nutrition.
How should you feed asparagus to your dog?
Whether green or white asparagus, it doesn't matter at all. In principle, both types are tasty and healthy for your furry friend. However, you should peel the spears beforehand. As you may have noticed yourself, the skin is quite woody and hard to chew. It's best to give your dog the asparagus unseasoned and
peeled and raw or
peeled and cooked.
If your four-legged friend snatches a raw and unpeeled asparagus spear from the kitchen, you don't need to worry! That's also harmless. But make sure your dog drinks enough water afterwards, to help wash down the tough skin.
When should you not feed asparagus?
For dogs with kidney problems or diseases of the kidneys or urinary tract you should not feed asparagus, as the vegetable has a diuretic effect. Instead, you can feed another →delicious vegetable or fruit to your four-legged friend or choose one of our tasty snacks from Pets Deli.
Indulge your pet in a healthy and delicious way – with our snacks
How much asparagus can your dog eat?
If your dog has never eaten asparagus before, let him try a little first, before you go all out in the kitchen. When it comes to vegetables, dogs are pretty divided: some like asparagus, others don't. But you shouldn't give him more than 1 to a maximum of 3 spears. Because just like with us humans, too much of a good thing can also lead to a tummy ache.
Don't forget to go for a walk!
Huh? Of course. But what does going for a walk have to do with asparagus? Maybe you've noticed yourself that after eating asparagus you had to visit the bathroom pretty quickly. Because in fact, eating asparagus has a diuretic effect. So just to be safe, take an extra little walk with your four-legged friend, if he has treated himself to some of the white or green spears.
