Are Any Vegetables Bad for Dogs?

Dogs are omnivores, but not all vegetables are safe.

Dogs are considered omnivorous, meaning they eat both plant and meat products. Dogs need a balanced diet to get the necessary vitamins and minerals that they need to thrive. Many fresh vegetables and fruits can be nutritious supplements to a dog's diet. But not all vegetables are safe for dogs, and some can even be fatal.

Bulb Vegetables

Garlic is extremely toxic to dogs.

Many bulb vegetables are poisonous to dogs. Garlic, onions, shallots, chives and leeks all contact N-propyl disulfide, which can cause the destruction of red blood cells and lead to anemia. An overdose of these vegetables can actually be fatal for some dogs.

Rhubarb, Potatoes and Tomatoes

While the tomato itself is not deadly, the leaves and stems can quickly kill a dog.

Some of the most toxic plants for dogs are rhubarb, potato and tomato leaves and stems (although the vegetables themselves are not as dangerous). The leaves of all three plants contact oxalates, which can damage the digestive, urinary and nervous systems. Ingesting even a small amount of these plants can be deadly for a dog.

Avocado

All parts of the avocado fruit and tree are toxic to dogs.

All parts of the avocado are dangerous for dogs. The fruit and large seed, as well as the bark and leaves of the tree, all contain persin. This chemical causes vomiting and diarrhea in dogs and can quickly lead to dehydration.

Mushrooms

Many wild mushrooms can be toxic to dogs, so monitor your dog closely when outside.

Mushrooms can contain a variety of toxins, and dogs should never be allowed to eat them. Depending on the species, mushrooms can cause liver, heart and kidney damage. Clinical signs usually appear within six to eight hours of ingesting the toxic mushrooms.

Healthy Vegetables

Broccoli is healthy as either a snack or a meal supplement for dogs.

Many vegetables are not only safe for dogs, but are actually very healthy for them. Broccoli, carrots and spinach are all good sources of vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants.

References

• Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Dog
• Vegetable Plants Poisonous to Dogs
• Mushroom Poisoning in Dogs and Cats

Resources

• Top 10 Vegetables For Dogs