Can dogs eat kale? yes, You can choose to include kale as a food supplement. Or feed it to your puppy as a tasty treat. As this superfood grows in popularity, many pet owners wonder if their dogs can reap the nutritional benefits of kale, too.
As with any new addition to a dog’s diet, it is up to you to make a choice. Read on to know the benefits of kale and how to prepare this vegetable for your baby:
Can dogs have kale?
To remember that all types of dogs react differently to each food. If you choose to feed dog kale, a giant dog will be able to enjoy it more safely in their diet than a smaller dog.
We understand that other sources may claim that black is not healthy for your dogs. However, when making up a small % of the recipe, you can give your dog the nutritional aspects of this vegetable without any harmful effects.
Like any nutrition plan, balance and variety are key. Do not feed one thing in particular. This quote from Dr. Karen Baker sums it up nicely:
How to feed your dog kale
To help your dog reap the benefits of kale with the least amount of risk, follow these feeding tips-
- Always buy organic; this will cut your risk of toxins and heavy metals in the bud.
- Make kale part of a balanced diet and consume kale slowly to avoid gastric irritation.
- Steaming cabbage lightly reduces its effect on the production of thyroid hormones.
- If you buy non-organic kale, add some chlorella or cilantro to help flush out any thallium from your dog’s body.
Precautions
As mentioned earlier, the chlorophyll in kale can help break down bladder stones. The problem is that kale also contains calcium oxalate, which can cause kidney and bladder stones. Dogs prone to stones should be given small amounts of food rich in calcium oxalate (such as kale).
Kale also contains isothiocyanates. These are compounds that may reduce the risk of cancer in humans. But in dogs, it can cause gastric irritation and can be toxic in large amounts. It is safest to keep kale and other cruciferous vegetables no more than 10% of your dog’s diet.
How to prepare kale for dogs
Due to differences in the digestive system, how you prepare cabbage for your puppy is different from yours.
Whether you steam and serve as a feast or with an entrée – there are many ways to prepare and perform kale for your four-legged friend. It can be cooked as long as no other additives are used. Similar to any new food you’ll try: Introduce it slowly.
Other helpful information when preparing kale for your dog:
- Buy organic when you can!
- Wash the buds thoroughly before feeding them to your puppy to remove as much insecticide from the leaves as possible.
- Try a puree. Because your dog’s digestive system is different from yours, cutting or pureeing this leafy green will make it easier to eat and digest.
- You can feed your puppy cooked, steamed, or raw – just as your puppy likes to prepare it.
- A balanced diet is essential! Always serve with a source of protein, such as with kale or other leafy greens such as chicken or beef.
- Avoid any additives. Mixing spices, oils, and other herbs can be toxic to your dog. Be sure to serve plain or with other vegetables if they’re not the flavor you’re fond of.
- Serve medium. Introduce any new food slowly – to avoid any adverse side effects. When served and prepared correctly, kale can be a great addition to your dog’s diet.
Benefits of eating kale
Like many other leafy greens, it is also rich in nutrients. Cruciferous vegetables are known as “nutritional powerhouses” and have many potential benefits.
Rich in vitamins K, A, and C, feeding your dog kale can support higher energy levels, blood and muscle health, an improved immune system, and the ability to fight cancer as well as other inflammatory diseases. Comes.
Kale is an excellent option if your dog tends to overeat or carry extra weight. This is a low-calorie treat that not only tastes good but can also aid in digestion.
Other possible benefits:
Kale is an excellent source of two primary antioxidants (lutein and zeaxanthin) to protect against cancer.
Leafy greens are also rich in calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron, supporting healthy bones and the heart.
Since it is rich in vitamins, feeding your dog kale can help vision and colon health, liver detoxification, and fight infection.
Can dogs eat kale? how many types of kale
There are three main types. The sweetest, lacinato (also called dinosaur or Tuscan kale), is dark green. It has long, flat leaves and is the easiest to use—the curly variety with very curly, green leaves that are somewhat bitter. And finally, the lightest of the three is a Russian variety with cowpea leaves and magenta stems.
Final thoughts
Remember: Always consult your vet.
Can dogs eat kale? after considering it, Before introducing any new food or supplement into your dog’s diet, it is always best practice to consult with your vet. However, in the end, the decision is yours. Be sure to do your research, and gather multiple sources of information before making a decision.
Happy eating to your furry friends!