Can dogs eat spinach?

Quick takeaways about dogs and spinach

• Many dogs can handle small quantities of fresh spinach – though too much can cause stomach upset.
• Spinach is high in beneficial vitamin C and contains antioxidants.
• Regularly eating a lot of spinach can cause liver damage in dogs.

 

We all want to feed our dogs the healthiest diet, so it’s natural to wonder if some human healthy foods are nutritious for dogs, too.

Spinach won’t get your pooch as strong as Popeye, but it is full of nutrients that have health benefits for dogs, like maintaining strong bones.

Too much spinach can cause health issues, like liver disease, though.

Remember – if you feed your dog healthy, complete and balanced meals, you don’t need to give them any extra food.

 

Can dogs eat spinach?

Yes, it’s safe for dogs to eat spinach in small quantities now and then. Don’t make them a regular treat, snack or meal topping, though.

 

Is spinach good for dogs? What are the health benefits?

Spinach is good for dogs because it contains:

• Vitamins A, B, C and K
• Minerals like potassium, magnesium and iron
• Antioxidants like lutein.

These nutrients help your dog maintain a healthy immune system and support strong bones, teeth and connective tissue.

Spinach also contains fibre, which helps digestion and prevents constipation.

 

Are there any dangers with feeding spinach to my dog?

Too much spinach is bad for dogs. This is because it’s high in oxalic acid, which stops the body from absorbing calcium and can cause kidney damage, disease or failure. Overeating it can also cause stomach upset.

Experts disagree on the amount of spinach needed for this to happen, so stick with small quantities, a few times a week max.

And if your pooch has kidney issues, steer clear of spinach.

 

Can puppies have spinach?

Avoid giving your puppy spinach. Their kidneys are still developing, so they might be unable to process it.

 

How do I serve spinach to my dog?

Before giving spinach to your dog, even as a snack, speak with your vet. They know your pooch and can help you decide if it’s a good idea.

Don’t give your dog tinned spinach, which might contain added salt or sugar – feed them fresh spinach only.

Wash the spinach to remove any pesticides, chop it, steam it or boil it, and serve it as a snack or part of a meal. Raw spinach leaves can be hard for dogs to digest.

Don’t cook spinach in oil or butter, and avoid seasonings like salt, pepper, spices and herbs. Many seasonings, like onions and garlic, are toxic to dogs in all forms.

Start with a small quantity and watch your pooch afterwards to see if they have any issues, like diarrhea or vomiting.

 

What other vegetables can dogs eat?

Dogs are omnivores and can safely munch on a range of veg like sweet potatoes, green beans, cucumbers and carrots.

But it’s essential you know which vegetables are poisonous to them. For example, tomato leaves and avocados are toxic to dogs.

Remember that if you feed your dog complete and balanced meals, you don’t need to supplement their diet.

 

The bottom line

Fresh spinach is safe for dogs to munch on in small quantities now and again. But if your pooch has liver problems, don’t give them any.

Avoid feeding your dog lots of spinach. Start with small amounts to see if your pooch can handle the veg well.

Wash, chop, and steam or boil spinach before serving it to your dog without adding any seasonings or condiments.

If your dog has diarrhea or constipation after eating spinach, stop feeding it.

 

Dogs and spinach FAQs

Can dogs eat spinach every day?

No, too much spinach can cause stomach upset and liver damage in dogs. If you want to give your pooch spinach, do it occasionally and in small quantities.

 

Can dogs eat cooked spinach?

Yes, cooked spinach is easier for dogs to digest than raw spinach. But steer away from tinned varieties – they might have added sugar and salt.

Chop and steam or boil fresh spinach and serve it to your pooch without any seasoning.

 

Does spinach give dogs diarrhea?

Yes, some dogs might have diarrhea, constipation or gas after eating spinach. That’s because spinach is rich in fibre. If the symptoms last over 8 hours, call your vet.

 

Can dogs eat kale?

Kale is safe for healthy adult dogs to munch on occasionally. Serve it raw, steamed or boiled, chopped into small pieces.

 

Can dogs eat mint?

Spearmint or peppermint leaves are safe for dogs to eat in moderation. Stick to one or two leaves per day max. However, avoid English Pennyroyal mint – it contains a compound called pulegone, which is toxic for dogs and humans.

   
Try our personalised meal plans with high-quality raw ingredients to help keep your dog healthy and happy.