Can Dogs Eat Spinach?

The short answer: Yes.

The long answer: Jam-packed with vitamins A, B, C, and K as well as iron, calcium, and fiber, this leafy vegetable can be given to your dog as a nutritious, low-calorie snack. Existing in three varieties, spinach is known to boost the immune system, stimulate the digestive system, aid in bowel movement, decrease inflammation, and promote cardiovascular health.

However, it is important to regulate the frequency and amount of spinach you give to your dog. When consumed in extremely large amounts, this superfood contains oxalates that could damage his kidney and/or may be toxic to some dogs. To be safe, consult with your vet first to find out if your dog can eat spinach and how much he is allowed to eat. 

How to feed spinach to your dog: Wash your fresh spinach thoroughly. Remove wilted or damaged parts before chopping the leaves into smaller pieces and cooking them. Do not use seasonings and spices such as salt, butter, and garlic to add flavor to the dish. These ingredients will cause more harm than good to your dog. Also, avoid feeding your dog raw spinach because his digestive system won’t be able to process it properly. 

Initially let your dog try a small amount of cooked spinach, and observe how his body reacts to it. If he does not vomit or gets the runs, then you can gradually increase his spinach intake. You can also mix a teaspoon of chopped spinach into his regular meal, so he learns to appreciate the taste and texture of the vegetable.  

Here are three ideas for spinach treats your dog will love:

1. This spinach, apple, and carrot treat will make your dog’s tail wag!
2. Try serving this delicious meal made of spinach, brown rice, chicken, and other vegetables. 
3. A nutritious dog treat made of spinach, carrot, zucchini gets our two paws up!

In summary: Dogs don’t really need vegetables in their diet the way their humans do, but it won’t hurt to add them to his food once in a while. Your dog’s skin, coat, bones, eyesight, reflexes, and digestion will improve with the help of spinach. Give him spinach as an occasional treat, making sure that it doesn’t go over 10% of your dog’s body weight. Aside from spinach, discover which other vegetables dogs can safely eat in our “can dogs eat” category.

References: 

Can Dogs Eat This? The Ultimate Guide To 105 Food Items

Can My Dog Eat Spinach?

Pet Food: Does Your Dog Need Vegetables

Can Dogs Eat Spinach? The Amazing Benefits of Spinach To Your Pets