Can Dogs Eat Arugula? Risks, Benefits &Tips For Feeding Arugula (2023)

March 24, 2023

0 0 7 minutes read

Yes, dogs can eat Arugula. Like many other leafy green vegetables, Arugula is non-toxic to dogs, making it a low-calorie snack with nutritional value. Arugula can help your dog’s health if you follow a few guidelines (namely, cooking the Arugula and serving it to your dog in moderation).

What is Arugula?

Arugula, also known as “rocket,” is a peppery, leafy green found in salads, pasta, and pizzas. Arugula is a Mediterranean plant that is frequently used in local cuisine. It was initially used as a medicinal herb and aphrodisiac, but it is now widely used in various dishes, particularly in Italian cuisine. It shares a family with cabbage and mustard, which explains its peppery flavor!

The leaves are a dark green color with notches running up both sides, and some are full and round while others are thinner and sharper. It’s usually served raw in salads or pasta, but it can also be cooked. It’s widely available, simple to grow, and cheap.

Is Arugula Good for Dogs?

There are numerous health benefits of Arugula for dogs.

Minerals

Arugula contains minerals such as potassium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and iron.

Digestion health

Arugula is high in fiber and low in sugar and carbs, which can help reduce blockage or digestion issues—as long as your dog consumes Arugula in moderation.

Chlorophyll

Similar to other leafy green veggies, Arugula contains chlorophyll and other phytochemicals in plants. Chlorophyll can aid the immune system and help detoxify the blood.

Risks in Eating Arugula for Dogs

Arugula is a good source of vitamins and minerals, but don’t give your dogs too much of it because it can cause diarrhea. If you don’t give in moderation, you’ll get stomach upset, which is the first risk. Other potential arugula risks are listed below.

Allergic reaction

Arugula, like other foods, can cause an allergic reaction in your dog, so it’s best to introduce it to them gradually, especially if it’s their first time. If you want your dog to try Arugula, start with small amounts and monitor for any adverse effects after 24 to 48 hours.

Goitrogenic

It means that if your dog has an iron deficiency or has thyroid issues, Arugula can cause hormonal imbalance by disrupting thyroid hormone production. But don’t worry; cooking arugula removes the goitrogens, so it’s always a good idea. Even if your dog has thyroid problems, Arugula can be consumed in this manner.

Oxalic acid

Arugula contains a moderate amount of oxalic acid, which binds essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and potassium, preventing your dog from adequately absorbing them. Arugula has a lower concentration of it than spinach and chard. Some veterinarians believe that the benefits of Arugula outweigh the risks. Always cook and feed Arugula in moderation as a precaution.

Tips for Feeding Arugula to Dogs

Dogs should only eat Arugula in moderation because it can cause diarrhea and vomiting.
The Arugula you buy at the grocery store will be treated with pesticides, so wash it thoroughly before feeding it to your dog.
Arugula is safe for pregnant or nursing dogs but does not give them too much of it. Arugula contains high levels of vitamin K, which is a blood thinner. Too much vitamin K can lead to bleeding in the stomach.
Giving Arugula to dogs with kidney disease or diabetes is not recommended.

How Much Arugula Can Dogs Eat?

While Arugula is nutritious, it is not something they should consume daily or in large quantities. As a general rule, vegetables should be considered “occasional treats” and account for less than 10% of a person’s total diet.

Now and then, a tablespoon of Arugula will suffice. Please leave it to their high-quality dog kibble to provide them with the complete nutrition they require daily.

How to prepare Arugula for dogs?

Arugula has a spicy, peppery taste that your dog will almost certainly dislike. Cooking and combining with other tasty items significantly reduces the peppery taste. Any cruciferous veggies should be briefly boiled before eating since this decreases the number of goitrogens in the vegetables and makes them safer to ingest. To hide the taste, we suggest just cutting it up and adding it to their current diet or adding it to lean meats or canned food.

Conclusion: Can Dogs Eat Arugula?

Arugula is a powerful nutritional supplement for your dog’s daily nutritional requirements. Overall, the benefits of Arugula far outweigh any potential risks. However, if your dog has any iodine or thyroid-related issues, proceed with caution. To reap the full benefits of Arugula, follow the steps to cook it for your dog gently. Now it’s your turn. Have you ever given Arugula to your dog? Do you give your dog Arugula as part of their diet? Is it a hit with your dog? We’d be interested in hearing about your experience!

FAQs

What leafy vegetables can dogs eat?

Dogs can eat some leafy vegetables as they are a great source of vitamins, fiber, and minerals. Here are a few leafy vegetables that are safe and healthy for dogs to eat in moderation:
Spinach
Kale
Arugula
Lettuce (Romaine or Bibb lettuce)
Watercress
Cabbage
Brussels sprouts
Broccoli

What is the healthiest vegetable for a dog?

There are several vegetables that are healthy for dogs to eat as they provide a variety of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. However, it’s important to remember that dogs are primarily meat-eaters and their diet should be mainly made up of high-quality animal-based protein sources. Here are a few vegetables that are particularly nutritious and safe for dogs to eat in moderation:
Green beans: They are low in calories, high in fiber, and contain vitamins such as vitamin C and K, along with minerals like iron and calcium.
Carrots: They are rich in beta-carotene, fiber, and vitamin A, which is beneficial for the eyes, skin, and immune system.
Broccoli: It contains high levels of vitamin C, fiber, and phytochemicals, which have antioxidant properties that can help protect against disease.
Sweet potatoes: They are a good source of vitamins A and C, potassium, fiber, and beta-carotene.
Pumpkin: It’s rich in fiber and beta-carotene, and can help regulate digestion and prevent constipation.
Remember that while these vegetables can be healthy and nutritious for dogs, they should always be given in moderation as too much of anything can cause digestive upset. Additionally, some dogs may be allergic or sensitive to certain vegetables, so it’s important to monitor your dog’s reaction when introducing new foods to their diet.

Can dogs eat avocado?

No, dogs should not eat avocado. Avocado contains a substance called persin, which can be toxic to dogs in large amounts. Persin is found in the leaves, bark, and fruit of the avocado, and while it’s generally safe for humans to consume, it can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs if they ingest too much of it. Additionally, the high fat content of avocados can cause gastrointestinal upset and potentially pancreatitis in dogs. Therefore, it’s best to avoid giving avocado to your dog, and to choose other healthy and safe treats instead.

Can dogs eat spinach?

Yes, dogs can eat spinach in moderation, as it’s a healthy and nutritious vegetable that’s low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. Spinach is an excellent source of iron, calcium, and vitamins A, C, and K, which are important for bone health, vision, and immune function. However, it’s important to note that spinach contains oxalic acid, which can bind with calcium and cause kidney stones in some dogs if consumed in large amounts. Therefore, spinach should be given to dogs in moderation, and it’s always a good idea to consult with your veterinarian about your dog’s diet to ensure that they are getting a balanced and healthy diet.

March 24, 2023

0 0 7 minutes read

Can Dogs Eat Arugula? Risks, Benefits &Tips For Feeding Arugula (2023)

What is Arugula?