Eggplants are a nutritious and delicious snack that can be a great addition to your dog’s diet.
But is that the case with raw eggplants as well?
In fact, raw eggplant is good for dogs as well. Read on to find out more about how dogs benefit from eating raw eggplant.
Is Raw Eggplant Good For Dogs?
Yes, raw eggplant can be good for dogs if fed in moderation. Large dogs can eat about one medium-sized raw eggplant per day while smaller breeds should eat half eggplant a day. Eggplants contain dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants which are all beneficial to your pup’s health.
However, although not very common, some dogs will have some difficulty digesting raw eggplant. For those dogs, I would just cook the eggplant (fry or grill).
Additionally, the eggplant should only be offered occasionally as part of a balanced diet, and any snacks should not exceed 10% of their daily calorie intake.
Furthermore, when giving your dog treats made with eggplant make sure that they don’t contain any additional ingredients which may be harmful to your pups such as sugar or salt.
(See also: Can Dogs Eat Eggplant Skin? 90% of Dogs Can!)
Health Benefits of Feeding Raw Eggplant To Dogs
- Improves digestion
- Prevents heart disease
- Rich in vitamin E
- Improves skin and coat health
- Reduces risk of cancer
Raw eggplant has tons of health benefits for dogs, including:
1. Improved Digestion
Raw eggplant contains a considerable amount of dietary fiber which can help to improve your dog’s digestion and reduce stomach irritation. The fiber found in raw eggplant will also help to move food through the digestive system more quickly, thus aiding in digestion and reducing any unpleasant symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea.
2. Prevention of Heart Disease
Eggplants are an excellent source of potassium which helps to regulate blood pressure, making it beneficial for preventing heart disease and other cardiovascular diseases. A diet high in potassium helps protect against stroke, hypertension, and even heart failure.
3. Vitamin E Boost
The vitamins found in raw eggplant provide an additional boost of vitamin E for dogs who may not be getting enough from their regular diet. Vitamin E helps to maintain healthy skin, and eyesight and is important for helping to strengthen the immune system.
4. Improved Skin & Coat Health
Eggplant contains a good amount of antioxidants which can help reduce inflammation in your dog’s skin and coat. This will result in smoother fur and fewer allergies or itchy skin due to improved overall health status.
5. Reduced Risk of Cancer
Studies have shown that certain types of eggplant contain phytonutrients that may be effective at reducing cancer risk in both humans and animals alike. The antioxidants found in raw eggplant also help protect cells from further damage, thus reducing the risk of developing tumors or other forms of cancer.
How To Prepare Raw Eggplant For Dogs
1. Gather the supplies needed to prepare and serve raw eggplant for your dog. This includes a cutting board, knife, bowl, and spoon.
2. Wash the eggplant under running water and pat dry with paper towels or a clean cloth.
3. Cut off the top and bottom of the eggplant then cut it into small cubes or slices that are easy for your dog to eat.
4. Place the cubes or slices of eggplant in a bowl before serving them to your canine companion.
5. Let your dog enjoy the raw eggplant as part of their meal! If you want to add something else to their diet, try adding other vegetables like carrots or green beans.
Are Eggplants Poisonous To Dogs When Raw?
No, eggplants are not poisonous to dogs when given raw. Eggplants contain a variety of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, B6, C, potassium, and magnesium. In addition to the nutrients that are beneficial for humans, eggplants are also good for dogs.
When served raw or cooked, they can provide healthy sources of dietary fiber and phytonutrients. Eggplants also contain manganese which contributes to strong bones and wound healing.
Eating whole-cooked eggplant is safe for your pup as long as it is not heavily seasoned with salt or spices that could be dangerous to them. Serving Fur-babies small amounts of eggplant either mashed up or cubed is an excellent way to help ensure a balanced diet!
Eggplants should always be washed thoroughly before feeding them to your dog.
Can Raw Eggplant Cause Diarrhea In Dogs?
While eggplant is generally considered safe for dogs, it’s important to understand that some dogs’ digestive systems may not be able to handle the high fiber and oxalic acid content found in raw eggplants.
If your pup has a sensitive stomach, you should feed them cooked or pureed eggplant only. Additionally, avoid feeding your pup large amounts of eggplant as too much can cause gastrointestinal distress like diarrhea and vomiting.
It’s always a good idea to check with your vet before introducing any new foods into your pup’s diet — especially if they have an existing health condition or food allergies.
Also, if you decide to give your pet fresh eggplant in any form, make sure there are no additives such as salt or spices present. Finally, be sure to monitor your pup’s reaction after eating eggplant to gauge how they respond and adjust the amount you give them accordingly.
In Conclusion
Large dogs can eat one medium-sized raw eggplant a day while smaller breeds can eat up to half a medium-sized raw eggplant a day. If your pup has a sensitive stomach, it is best if you cook the eggplant instead of feeding it raw.
