Yes, dogs can eat fennel.
Fennel is a flowering plant species belonging to the carrot family. It is an herb that adds flavour to countless Mediterranean dishes. Depending on the dish being prepared, its fruits, leaves, and seeds can turn into garnish, flavouring, or vegetable. Aside from food and drinks (the most popular being absinthe), fennel was traditionally used for medicinal means.
A great source of nutrients, the fennel plant is non-toxic for dogs. It is packed with vitamins A and C that can aid your pet’s immune and digestive systems. Plus, its fresh aroma can help reduce bad breath.
How to feed fennel to your dog: Consult with your veterinarian before including fennel in your pet’s diet. The amount you give him will depend on his age, size, daily activities, and existing health conditions. Overfeeding may cause an upset stomach, so follow your vet’s serving recommendations.
Your dog can eat raw or cooked fennel. Just make sure the stalks are soft enough and cut into small pieces. This lessens the chances of airway or intestinal blockage.
Here are three ideas for fennel treats your dog will love:
- Toast then crush some fennel seeds. Sprinkle them over your dog’s food.
- Make fennel tea to ease your pup’s tummy. Let it cool, then allow him to drink about two to four teaspoons of it.
- Try this chicken and fennel au gratin for dogs, but ditch the garlic in the recipe.
In summary: Packed with vitamins, iron, and potassium, fennel can be a great addition to your canine’s diet as long as he enjoys its taste. However, if he doesn’t like eating it, you can find other canine-safe vegetables to offer him. Explore our “can dogs eat” category to see which ones your pet can safely consume.
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