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Can Dogs Eat Asparagus?
Serve small amounts, and not every day.
Is asparagus safe for dogs?
Asparagus is a green spear vegetable, tender when cooked and woody when raw. Cooked asparagus is safe in small amounts, but raw spears are tough and can be a choking hazard.
How to serve asparagus to your dog
- Steam until soft and chop into small pieces
- Serve it plain
- Offer just a spear or two
What to avoid
- Raw woody ends
- Asparagus cooked with butter, garlic or onion
How much asparagus can my dog have?
Treats, including asparagus, should stay under about 10% of your dog's daily calories. As a rough starting point, small dogs can have 1 to 2 bite-size pieces, medium dogs 2 to 4, and large dogs a small handful. Introduce it slowly and do not make it a daily habit.
Signs your dog may be having a problem
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your dog has eaten any of the parts listed above.
Frequently asked questions
Can puppies eat asparagus?
Young animals have more sensitive digestive systems and a carefully balanced diet, so check with your vet before adding asparagus. If you get the go-ahead, start with an even smaller amount than an adult would get.
What if my dog ate too much asparagus?
The most common result is an upset stomach with vomiting or diarrhea. Offer water, skip further treats, and call your vet if symptoms are severe or last more than a day, or if your dog ate any of the parts listed under "What to avoid".
How often can my dog have asparagus?
Treat it as an occasional extra rather than a daily food. Once or twice a week at most is a sensible starting point for a healthy adult dog, and less for small ones.
More questions dog owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Cats Eat Asparagus?