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Relax. Eggplants are generally not toxic or poisonous for dogs.
Even in humans, most people disagree with liking eggplants—it's either you love it, or you hate it.
Still, it is a versatile vegetable that is widely used in many cultures around the world.
That being said, it is a staple to many dishes that we commonly enjoy.
If you are like me, who likes to give little bites of my food to my pup, you have probably wondered: can dogs eat eggplant?
Because, let’s be honest, it is hard to resist those puppy eyes staring up at you while you’re munching on today’s menu.
So, is eggplant good for dogs? The short answer is yes; your dog can eat eggplant. BUT there are some crucial things to consider.
As responsible pet parents, it is a good habit to always do a quick surf on the internet before doing or feeding anything to our dogs.
Give this one a quick read, and we’ll answer every question you have concerning eggplant for dogs!
Can Dogs Eat Eggplant? Yes! But…
The short answer to the question: can dogs have eggplant is YES, but they might not like it.
Dogs can eat eggplants because it is not toxic or poisonous, but our furry friends might not exactly like the slightly bitter taste of it when raw.
Also, just like in humans, eggplants are more likely to be a preference kind of thing for dogs, too.
So, if you’re looking for ways to introduce these purple fruit (yes, it's a fruit!) to your dog’s diet, you are in luck.
Later on, we will also give you ideas on how to prepare and serve eggplant for dogs safely. So, stay tuned for that.
Is Eggplant Safe for Dogs?
Yes, but only if you DO NOT include the stem and leaves.
As we have established, eggplants are not necessarily toxic to dogs.
The main issue with eggplants arises from the two compounds it contains: solanine and oxalates.
These substances are mainly concentrated in the eggplant’s stem and leaves.
So if you LEAVE the leaves and stems out of cooking or preparing eggplant for dogs, it should be safe.
Solanine is a naturally occurring toxin in some nightshade plants, like eggplants. It is usually harmless to humans in small amounts.
On the other hand, dogs are more sensitive to solanine than humans.
To our pups, ingesting a large amount of solanine-rich foods like an eggplant's stem and leaves can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, and even more severe reactions in some cases.
Eggplants are also known to contain oxalates, a compound that can contribute to the formation of kidney stones in dogs, especially if they are predisposed to this condition.
While oxalates are not as toxic as solanine, they can still cause health issues when consumed excessively.
Here are some dog breed examples that are predisposed to kidney stones compared to others:
- Shih Tzu
- Miniature Poodle
- Miniature Schnauzer
- Yorkshire Terrier
- Bichon Frise
So, is eggplant safe for dogs? Well, for these specific breeds, you might not want to offer eggplants as a precaution.
Is Eggplant Healthy for Dogs?
Yes, it is. But eggplants must only be a supplementary part of your dog’s diet and not entirely made up of it.
Let’s remember that while meat or protein should comprise the majority of a dog's diet, they can also get a lot of nutrients from non-meat food like fruits and vegetables.
When it comes to a healthy diet, balance is key.
To remain healthy, dogs need a combination of proteins, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water.
Eggplant is a great source of essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other valuable nutrients.
You can definitely give it to your dog as a healthy treat!
The Nutritional Value of an Eggplant
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional value of an eggplant and whether it is healthy for your dogs. The good news is that eggplants are packed with nutrients!
Eggplants are low in calories but high in fiber. When included in your pup’s diet, this combination will leave them feeling full for longer.
It also contains a healthy amount of vitamins and minerals like vitamin B6 for hormone regulation and immune response, as well as vitamin C, folate, and potassium.
There's also something called anthocyanins that are found in eggplants. This is found in the natural pigment that makes the eggplant skin appear purple!
Anthocyanins are a bunch of antioxidants found in blue, red, and purple fruits or vegetables.
An anthocyanin-rich diet can help dial down your dog's blood pressure and even prevent inflammation, cancer, and heart disease.
Eggplants also have a nutrient called nasunin. It is a major component of the anthocyanin pigment of the purple plant.
While eggplant won't typically harm your dog’s health (when served correctly), it also won't exactly boost their health dramatically.
But to be safe, you should chat with your vet before introducing any new food, eggplant included, to your dog's diet.
Because even if an eggplant is prepared to perfection, some dogs' stomachs might not just agree with it.
Tips for Feeding Eggplant to Dogs
If you want to try and see if your dog likes eggplant, you can be sneaky and mix it with food your dog loves!
However, if you want to prepare it as it is, below are some tips on how to prepare eggplant for dogs.
1. Cooked Eggplant is Better Than Raw
Can dogs eat raw eggplant? Sure.
But because of the slightly bitter taste of a raw eggplant, your pooch might just throw it around like a toy instead of eating it.
On the other hand, cooking eggplant will not only remove that unpleasant taste, but it can also help break down the potentially harmful compounds, making it safer for your dog to consume.
Cooked, soft, and warm are the best ways to serve eggplant for dogs!
2. Cut the Eggplant into Bite-Size Pieces
When serving, it is always better to cut the eggplant into small, bite-sized pieces. Of course, this is to avoid choking hazards, especially for smaller dog breeds.
Aside from eliminating the odds of choking, most dogs also need to slow down while eating, but some need more time to finish their food.
So cutting the cooked eggplants into bite-size pieces will allow them to enjoy and savor the food even better!
3. Keep it Bland and Simple.
What if I want to add some flavor to it? What spices can dogs eat?
Well, that’s entirely a whole discussion for another article. Let us dive into how you can prepare eggplant for your pup!
You can always experiment with ways to serve eggplant for your dog.
I suggest avoiding any seasonings, spices, or sauces that might upset your dog’s stomach.
You can try boiled, steamed, baked, grilled, or even make an eggplant jerky! Just keep that eggplant plain and simple.
Risks of Feeding Eggplant to Your Dog
Will eggplant make my dog sick?
That depends. Eggplant is generally safe for your dog when prepared properly.
If your dog has a history of digestive issues, food allergies, or kidney problems, it's best to skip eggplant altogether.
As responsible fur parents, it is crucial to monitor your dog after they eat eggplant (or any food) for the first time.
Watch for any adverse reactions like vomiting, diarrhea, or weird changes in behavior.
Please consult your veterinarian immediately if you notice any unusual symptoms or allergic reactions.
FAQs about Eggplant for Dogs
Can Dogs Eat Eggplant Skin?
Unlike the leaves and the stem, eggplant skin is perfectly safe for dogs to eat!
The antioxidants that eggplants contain, such as the anthocyanin and nasunin that we discussed earlier, could be found in the purple pigment in the eggplant peel.
There is also a lot of fiber in the eggplant skin.
However, this is a double-edged sword because too much fiber could upset a sensitive dog’s stomach.
So, yes, dogs can eat eggplant skin, but only in moderation.
Can Dogs Eat Eggplant With Egg?
Dogs can absolutely eat eggplant with eggs! If you’re unsure if your dog will like eggplants, you can mix them with eggs to hide the taste a little bit.
But please be sure to cook it properly because, as we all know, raw eggs can contain some bacteria like the infamous salmonella.
So please make sure the eggs are well-cooked before serving them to your pup to avoid any stomach issues.
RELATED: How to Cook Eggs for Dogs
Can Dogs Eat Raw Eggplant?
Yes!
As discussed in this article, dogs may eat raw eggplant, BUT they might not like it.
Raw eggplants have a bitter or unpleasant taste.
So whether you are a human or a dog, raw eggplants will not taste as good as when cooked.
Can Dogs Eat Fried Eggplants?
No. You need to skip the oil when preparing eggplant for dogs.
Eggplants have just 25 calories and no more than 1 gram of fat per serving so that one can eat it with a clear conscience—provided that you do not drench it in oil.
Spongy vegetables, like eggplants, absorb more oil when soaked in it.
Besides, oily or fatty foods can upset your dog’s stomach. So frying is not recommended.
What if My Dog Accidentally Ate Eggplant?
Chill! There’s no need to worry if your dog accidentally ate eggplant.
Whether your dog ate raw eggplant or if it is not prepared specifically for your dog, everything should be good.
Dogs can tolerate eggplant, especially in small amounts.
My Dog Accidentally Ate Eggplant Stem and Leaf. What Should I Do?
You should call your vet right away if this happens. Your dog may experience symptoms of gastrointestinal irritation like vomiting.
While eggplant stems or leaves are not toxic or poisonous for dogs, you must take them seriously and work with your vet.
Immediately get your dog checked, and get some prescriptions to help with the upset stomach.
After all, it is always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to the health and well-being of our pups.
Can Dogs Eat Eggplant? Before You Go…
The answer is a cautious yes.
Eggplant can be a nutritious addition to your dog's diet when prepared correctly and in moderation.
Remember always to prioritize your pup's safety and well-being, and if you're unsure about any new food, consult your veterinarian.
Every dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another.
Keeping your dog's diet balanced and tailored to their specific health needs is key.
As a fur parent, you're already on the right track by digging into whether your pup can munch on eggplant and finding out how to serve it for dogs properly.
It shows you're looking out for your furry buddy's best interests!
So, go ahead and share a bit of eggplant with your dog, but do so with care and love.
If you want to learn more about non-meat foods your pups can safely rely on, check out these articles below!
