Can Dogs Eat Chicory? Chew on This!

If you’re a dog owner, you might be wondering if your furry friend can enjoy some of the same foods you do.

Chicory is a leafy green vegetable that’s become increasingly popular in recent years, thanks to its bitter yet nutty flavor and numerous health benefits.

But can dogs eat chicory, too?

While there’s no definitive answer, there are some important things to consider before giving this veggie to your beloved pup.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the potential benefits and risks of feeding chicory to dogs, so you can make an informed decision about what to feed your furry friend.

Can Dogs Eat Chicory?

Yes, dogs can eat chicory as part of a healthy and balanced diet. Chicory is an edible plant that belongs to the dandelion family and is native to Europe.

It has a slightly bitter taste, but it’s full of nutrients beneficial for your pup’s health.

Chicory greens are safe for your dog to eat, whether they’re raw or cooked. Eating them raw will retain their full nutritional value, but if your pup doesn’t like the bitter flavor then cooking them can help make them more palatable.

Chicory root is also safe for your dog to eat and is an excellent source of natural fiber.

It contains high prebiotic content which helps promote good digestion in dogs, as well as providing other benefits such as improved gut health and better nutrient absorption.

In addition to chicory greens and root, the inulin fiber found in chicory root can also be found in other vegetables such as carrots and onions which are both safe for dogs to eat in moderation.

Overall, chicory is a great addition to your pup’s diet when given in moderation – just make sure you check with your vet first before introducing any new food into their diet!

See also: 47 Safe Vegetables To Feed Your Dog. Puppy Power!

How Much Chicory Can Dogs Eat?

Like any new food, it’s important to introduce chicory to your dog’s diet slowly and in small amounts to avoid any digestive upset.

Generally, you can start by giving your dog a small piece or a few leaves to see how they react to it. If there’s no adverse reaction, you can gradually increase the amount you give them with each feeding.

According to experts, it’s recommended that dogs consume vegetables as no more than 10% of their diet. While chicory is a safe veggie for dogs, it’s still important not to overfeed it.

Too much chicory or any other type of vegetable can lead to digestive issues like bloating, gas, or diarrhea.

So, as a general guideline, you can give 1-2 teaspoons of cooked or raw chicory greens or root per day for small dogs, while medium and large breeds can have 1-2 tablespoons.

But as always, be sure to consult your veterinarian before introducing any new food to your dog’s diet. They can give you personalized recommendations based on your dog’s size, weight, and overall health.

Remember, a balanced diet that includes all the required nutrients, vitamins, and minerals is essential for your dog’s well-being.

The right balance of nutrients can vary depending on a dog’s activity level, age, and overall health.

When in doubt, consult your veterinarian, as they can provide you with the guidance and information that you need to keep your dog healthy and happy.

Chicory Feeding Chart According To Size

Food	Size	Portion
Chicory	Toy dogs	1 teaspoon
Chicory	Small dogs	1 – 2 teaspoon
Chicory	Medium dogs	1 tablespoon
Chicory	Large Dogs	1 – 2 tablespoons

Chicory Feeding Chart According To Age

Food	Age	Portion
Chicory	0 – 6 months	Don’t feed
Chicory	6 – 12 months	1 teaspoon
Chicory	12 – 24 months	1 tablespoon
Chicory	24+ months	1 – 2 tablespoons

How Often Can Dogs Eat Chicory

Dogs can eat chicory in moderation, either cooked or raw, as part of a healthy and balanced diet. It is safe for them to consume a small amount of chicory a few times a week, but it should not make up the majority of their diet.

Health Benefits of Chicory To Dogs

1. Good for Digestion. Chicory contains a high concentration of inulin – a type of dietary fiber that acts as a prebiotic which helps support good digestion, immune function, and overall gut health in dogs. Inulin helps feed the good bacteria in your dog’s gut and reduces the growth of harmful bacteria in its colon.
2. Anti-Inflammatory Properties. Chicory is rich in antioxidants, which have anti-inflammatory properties. These antioxidants help to reduce inflammation, which can lead to less painful joints and less risk of chronic diseases like cancer and arthritis.
3. Helps regulate blood sugar levels. Inulin found in chicory root has been known to regulate blood sugar levels in dogs, making it an ideal food for diabetic and overweight dogs.
4. Regulates appetite. The bitter compounds in chicory have been known to help suppress the appetite, making it a great food option for dogs that need to lose weight by reducing their calorie intake.
5. Low-Calorie and Nutrient-Dense. Chicory is a low-calorie food that’s loaded with nutrients such as vitamins C, K, and folate. It also contains minerals like potassium, calcium, iron, and copper.
6. Promotes Healthy Skin and Coat. Chicory is high in vitamin C and contains zinc, which promotes healthy skin and coat in dogs.

Potential Risks of Feeding Chicory To Dogs

1. Bloating and Gas. Chicory is high in fiber, specifically inulin, which can cause bloating and flatulence in dogs if consumed in large amounts.
2. Diarrhea. If your dog is not used to consuming high-fiber vegetables, introducing chicory to their diet can cause digestive upset and diarrhea.
3. Allergies. While rare, some dogs can develop an allergy to chicory or other greens in the dandelion family. If you notice any itching or swelling after feeding your dog chicory, discontinue feeding it immediately and consult with your veterinarian.
4. Kidney Stones. Chicory root contains a moderate amount of oxalates, which can form kidney stones in dogs susceptible to that issue. If your dog has had a history of kidney stones, you should consult with your vet before adding chicory to their diet.
5. Toxicity. While chicory itself is not toxic to dogs, some preparations of chicory, such as in certain herb mixtures, can be harmful to pets. So, it is essential to check the ingredients of these herbal preparations before feeding them to your dog.

Nutritional Benefits of Chicory For Dogs

Chicory Nutrition Facts per 100 grams	% DV *
Calories	72
Total Fat	0.2 g
Cholesterol	0 mg
Sugar	3.9 g
Glycemic Index	0
Sodium	22.5 mg
Carbs	18 g
Protein	1.4 g
Vitamin D	0%
Calcium	41 mg
Iron	0.8 mg
Potassium	0 mg

Are Dogs Sensitive To Chicory?

While most dogs can safely eat chicory, some dogs may be sensitive to it. If your dog is sensitive to chicory, they may display the following symptoms within a few hours after consumption:

1. Vomiting. One of the most typical symptoms of chicory sensitivity in dogs is vomiting. It may happen once or multiple times and may be accompanied by other symptoms.
2. Diarrhea. Diarrhea can be observed hours to days after consumption of chicory. In mild cases, it can subside on its own, while severe cases may lead to dehydration which can be dangerous for dogs.
3. Lethargy. Tremendous weakness, reduced energy, and difficulties in the movement are often seen in dogs that are allergic to chicory.
4. Gas and Bloating. Gas or bloating is another common symptom of chicory sensitivity in dogs. If you notice changes in your dog’s stomach after eating a meal containing chicory, this may be a warning sign.
5. Skin Irritation. In rare cases, dogs may experience skin irritation after consuming chicory. Allergic reactions could range from itching, tingling, redness, and hives on the skin.

If your dog displays any of these symptoms after eating chicory or other foods, please consult your veterinarian immediately. A vet will be able to conduct tests to determine the exact cause of your dog’s sensitivity and give the appropriate medical treatment if needed.

How To Prepare Chicory For Dogs

Raw Chicory Greens

You can introduce fresh, raw chicory greens to your dog’s diet as a topping for their food. Some dogs enjoy the slightly bitter flavor of raw chicory, but others may not. Start with a small amount, and if your dog enjoys the taste, you can offer them more over time.

Steamed Chicory Greens

Steaming chicory greens is a great way to make the greens more palatable for dogs that may not enjoy their raw flavor. Steaming can also help to reduce any bitterness. Simply steam the leaves for a few minutes until they are tender, then let them cool before feeding them to your dog.

Cooked Chicory Root

Chicory root is also safe and beneficial for your dog to consume. You can boil or roast the root to make it easier to digest, especially if your dog has a sensitive stomach or digestive issues. Once the root is cooked, you can chop it up and mix it with your dog’s regular food.

How Fast Will Dogs Digest Chicory

As with any food, the speed at which dogs digest chicory can vary depending on a few factors, such as your dog’s age, size, and overall health. However, like many fibrous vegetables, chicory can take some time to digest thoroughly.

Dogs have a shorter digestive tract than humans, which means that they can process food faster, typically within 6-8 hours after eating. However, high-fiber foods like chicory can slow down digestion and take longer to pass through the digestive system.

The exact digestion time will depend on a range of factors, such as the amount of chicory your dog consumed and their individual digestive system’s tolerance. If your dog has consumed a lot of chicory or has digestive issues, it could take longer for the chicory to be fully digested.

If you are introducing chicory to your dog’s diet for the first time or in larger quantities, be sure to monitor their digestion and watch for signs of bloating, gas, or diarrhea. As always, if you are unsure if chicory is suitable for your dog, consult with your veterinarian beforehand.

FAQs

Can dogs eat chicory root?

Yes, dogs can eat chicory root in moderation. Chicory root contains dietary fiber and is a prebiotic that helps maintain proper gut health. It also contains essential vitamins and minerals like iron, calcium, and phosphorus, which are important for overall health and longevity.

Can dogs eat chicory leaves?

Yes, dogs can eat chicory leaves. Chicory leaves are high in fiber and low in calories, making them a great snack for your pup. However, it’s important to feed these leaves in moderation as they can cause digestive upset if your dog eats too many.

Can dogs eat chicory root fiber?

Yes! Chicory root fiber is a great source of dietary fiber for dogs. It’s high in essential minerals like magnesium, zinc, and calcium, and can help keep your pup’s digestion regular.

Can dogs eat chicory while pregnant?

No, it is not recommended for pregnant dogs to eat chicory. Chicory is high in oxalic acid which can interfere with calcium absorption, potentially causing developmental issues for puppies. Additionally, chicory contains a compound called saponin which can have a mild laxative effect and may cause an upset stomach in your dog.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, chicory is a safe, nutrient-rich, and beneficial addition to your dog’s diet when given in moderation.

Chicory contains high levels of inulin, which acts as a prebiotic and can support digestive health, help regulate blood sugar levels and promote healthy skin and coat.

However, while chicory can provide numerous health benefits, it should be fed to dogs in moderation, as consuming high amounts may cause gastrointestinal problems like bloating, gas, or diarrhea.