Yes, dogs can eat okra in limited quantities.
Grown in tropical, subtropical, and warm temperate regions, okra is a flowering plant that comes from the family Malvaceae. It goes by the names ladies’ fingers and ochro, and its green seed pods can be enjoyed raw, pickled, or cooked. Even the leaves and seeds can be eaten, with the latter being turned into oil and decaffeinated coffee.
Okra is safe for dogs to eat. Packed with vitamins A, C, and E, potassium, and calcium, the nutrients found in it can support your dog’s various systems. These include his immune system, musculoskeletal system, and endocrine system. Additionally, eating okra helps with his digestive system because of its fiber content.
How to feed okra to your dog: Before letting your pooch try it for the first time, speak with your veterinarian to discover how much okra your dog can safely consume. Let him try a small portion, then observe him for the next 24 hours.
You can let your dog enjoy raw or cooked okra. The edible fruit and seeds tend to be slimy, so it may not appeal to all pooches. Wash the raw okra properly, and chop it into smaller pieces to prevent choking. When cooking, try steaming or cooking okra in low heat to keep its nutritional properties.
Do not add unnecessary flavourings such as salt, garlic, onion, and butter as these ingredients are poisonous for dogs. Also, avoid giving pickled and fried okra because these are unhealthy for canines.
In summary: High in plant-based protein and antioxidants, okra may be added to your dog’s diet as long as your vet approves of it. The pepper-shaped fruit should never be given as a meal replacement as it can only be eaten in limited quantities. Too much may cause gas, bloating, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Aside from okra, learn which vegetables and fruits you can feed your dog under our “can dogs eat” category.
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