- This article has been reviewed by a pet health professional. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice.
We all know the importance of eating our greens and cabbage is a popular, affordable meal add-on. But while people incorporate this leafy vegetable into dishes such as stews, slaw, and stir-fries, is it OK to add it to your dog’s food bowl?
Yes! Dogs can eat plain cabbage in moderation. It’s one of the best vegetables for dogs since it’s low in calories but high in nutrients. There are also various types of cabbage, meaning pet parents can mix things up at feeding time.
Read on to learn how to feed cabbage to your dog and potential risk factors.
Are All Types of Cabbage Good For Dogs?
Cabbage is part of the Brassica plant family, also known as cruciferous vegetables. Dogs can eat various types of cabbage, including:
- Green cabbage
- Red cabbage
- Sweetheart cabbage
- Napa cabbage
- Savoy cabbage
- Bok choy
- Brussels sprouts
- Kale
Even though lettuce looks very similar to cabbage, this salad staple comes from a different plant family. The good news is dogs can eat cabbage and lettuce in small amounts.
How Much Cabbage Can Dogs Eat?
Dogs should only eat plain cabbage leaves cut into bite-sized pieces and in minimal amounts. Dr Wendy Hauser, DVM and veterinary advisor at ASPCA Pet Health Insurance, says the following is a good serving suggestion:
- Small dogs = 1-2 tablespoons of chopped vegetables
- Larger dogs = up to 3 tablespoons of chopped vegetables
And while dogs can *technically* eat raw cabbage, cooking this vegetable before giving it to your dog is recommended.
“It should be lightly steamed or boiled so that it is soft,” says Dr. Hauser. Generally, cooked cabbage is the easiest for dogs to digest, she says.
Are There Health Benefits for Dogs Eating Cabbage?
Even though cabbage is super healthy, your dog is (unfortunately) unlikely to experience its maximum benefits. Dr Hauser says this is because dogs won’t eat enough to fully reap those benefits.
But it is good to know cabbage contains good nutrients, including:
- Vitamin K: for blood health, bone growth, and wound healing
- Potassium: to aid nerve health and balance blood pressure levels
- Insoluble fibre: to support healthy digestion and bowel movements
- Antioxidants: to help prevent cell damage
What Are the Risks of Dogs Eating Cabbage?
Some breeds, like Great Danes and German Shepherds, are more likely to bloat and should avoid cabbage altogether due to the increased gas cabbage can cause.
If your dog eats too much cabbage, Dr Hauser says, you should contact your vet if you see these signs:
- Upset stomach
- Increased gas
- Diarrhoea
- A swollen belly
- Dry heaving
You should also leave cabbages out of reach if your dog has hypothyroidism. Dr Hauser says cabbage contains goitrogens that suppress thyroid gland function. While cooking helps to reduce cabbage’s goitrogen levels, it’s best to avoid feeding them this vegetable.
What Other Veggies Are Safe for Dogs to Eat?
Besides cabbage, dogs can eat many other vegetables! Here are some other veggies you can safely feed your pup in moderation:
- Swiss Chard
- Broccoli
- Cauliflower
- Spinach
- Carrots
- Green beans
- Pumpkin
- Courgette
- Potatoes
- Celery
- Radish
Some vegetables cannot be served raw or contain unsafe parts, so double-check before giving them to your dog. Remember that some veggies—including garlic and onion—are never safe to feed dogs.
