Can Dogs Eat Raw Cabbage?
The simple answer is yes. We all know that the crispness of raw cabbage is tantalizing for our furry friends. However, too much of anything is bad. Although cabbage is beneficial for your dog, raw cabbage can pose health risks when fed in large volumes.
Raw cabbage contains thiocyanate, a natural compound that can suppress the thyroid gland and, in the long run, cause hypothyroidism. Your dog could suffer this end if you regularly feed them large quantities of raw cabbage. On the other hand, if given in minimal amounts, it’s quite healthy and fun for your pup.
Related: Can Dogs Eat Rice?
How About Cooked Cabbage?
Cooked cabbage is the best type of cabbage to give to your dog. Regardless of the type of cabbage, cooking or blanching it in a quick hot bath is enough to rid it of thiocyanate.
On the other hand, if your puppy is used to eating raw cabbages, it might need to get used to cooked cabbages’ soggy texture. You don’t have to worry, though. They’ll eventually turn around once they get the hang of it.
Lightly cooking your cabbages not only incapacitates thiocyanates, but it also removes any pesticide or harmful chemicals used on the produce.
Will Cabbage Give my Dog Gas?
While cabbages are dog-friendly, it does tend to give your dog gas. If you’ve had dogs for long, you know how unbearable dog farts may be. But bear in mind that the benefits of cabbages greatly outweigh the woes.
To ensure that your dog doesn’t get any stomach problems, always remember that moderation is vital. Feeding your dog too much raw or cooked cabbage can cause stomach problems. Too much-cooked cabbages may cause stomach aches and watery stool for your dog.
How Else can my Dog Get Antioxidants?
Like us, dogs need antioxidants. Although cabbages, of any kind, are a good source of antioxidants, there are some alternatives that you can try.
- Green tea. One alternative is green tea. It is known as a great source of antioxidants with no side-effects for your dog. Just make a cup of tea and give your dog 1/8th of a cup, up to two times a day.
- Kidney beans. Kidney beans are also an excellent alternative for antioxidants because they keep your dog’s cholesterol levels at bay. Just remember to take the extra mile and cook the beans before you give them to your dog. Uncooked kidney beans are dangerous for them.
