Eggplant might not be the most popular vegetable out there, but some people do like it. Besides this, eggplant is a quite healthy vegetable. But is it also safe for your canine? Can dogs have eggplant?
There are many human foods that are not safe for dogs, so doing research is important. Not even all fruits and vegetables are safe! This is why dog owners need to really put in work in order to find out what is safe for dogs and what is not.
You can start doing your research with some of our most popular articles on food:
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Now, with that being said let’s see if dogs can eat eggplant!
Can dogs have eggplant?
Generally speaking, eggplant is not toxic for canines. So, you can say that this vegetable is in fact safe for dogs.
However, some canines should not eat eggplant, even though it is safe and we will explain why.
The issue with eggplant
Eggplant is generally safe, however, many dogs are actually allergic to eggplant. Obviously, you do not want to give your pooch eggplant if they are allergic.
Secondly, pooches that suffer from inflammation problems like arthritis, shouldn’t eat eggplant. This vegetable is very likely going to worsen their condition.
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Lastly, canines that suffer from kidney problems shouldn’t eat eggplant either. This is because eggplant has a high content of oxalate that can worsen existing kidney issues in canines.
Eggplant has a high content of oxalate which leads to an increased risk of kidney stone formation. Of course, kidney stones are not something you would want for your dog. Especially because in extreme cases kidney stones can lead to kidney death or acute oxalate nephropathy.
Benefits of eggplant
If your dog doesn’t have any health issues that can get worse by eating eggplant, nor are they allergic to eggplant, you can consider feeding it to your dog.
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Eggplants contain a decent amount of potassium, calcium, zinc, vitamin C, magnesium, vitamin B6, folate, and also vitamin K.
But what makes eggplant so special and healthy is the flavonoid they contain such as anthocyanins. Basically, flavonoids don’t only give eggplants their color, but it is a pigment that provides several health benefits.
For humans, flavonoids have anti-inflammatory effects. Basically, they protect your cells from oxidative damage that can lead to disease.
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Besides this, these dietary antioxidants can prevent the development of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and even cognitive diseases like dementia and Alzheimers.
How to feed dogs eggplants
You definitely should never feed your dog raw eggplant. It is best that you only give your dog well-cooked eggplant, without any seasoning, especially nothing spicy.
Cooked eggplant is the best because in the process of cooking any harmful components will be destroyed. So there is no risk for your dog to get sick.
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You can cook eggplant and occasionally add it to your dog’s kibble or canned food. Or if your dog really enjoys eggplant you can give it as a treat.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the short answer to the question can dogs have eggplant is yes. However, it’s not that simple actually!
Many dogs can’t have eggplant because they are either allergic to this vegetable, or suffer from a condition that could be worsened by consuming eggplant.
If you have never given your dog eggplant, you might want to discuss it with your veterinarian first. Get your veterinarian’s opinion on this topic too. He is an expert and knows your dog well. There is no one that will give you better advice for your dog.