Many dogs enjoy their veggies, and adding a unique addition to your dog’s diet every now and then is a perfect way to keep them satisfied and add a little variety to their diet.
Yet, the list of things you should not be giving your dog is long. It can be tricky for owners to know what is fine to feed their furry friend and what is not good to give them.
Just because us humans enjoy certain foods, does not mean that it will be safe for your dog to enjoy too. So, can dogs eat courgette? And if so, what are the benefits?
Can dogs eat courgette?
Yes, dogs can eat courgette and it’s perfectly safe for dogs and puppies. In fact, it may be one of the best vegetables to feed dogs. Courgette can be given to dogs raw or cooked, and they can eat the fruit or flowers. However, it’s important not to give your dog too much courgette at once. Dogs can eat courgette, but in moderation.
Courgettes are an increasingly popular summer vegetable, and are a part of the squash family. While botanically a fruit, the courgette is a thin-skinned variety of marrow and is treated by most of us as a vegetable. Low in calories and high in fibre, courgettes are a good source of vitamin A and C, as well as vitamin B9. Due to the low-calorie levels and high levels of fibre, courgettes are considered a great treat option for any dog needing lose a few pounds.
How much courgette can dogs eat?
Courgette may be low in calories, but that does not mean that a dogs should have a large amount of courgette. The recommended feeding of treats is that they should make up no more than 10 percent of your dog’s diet, which is a great way to figure out how much courgette to feed your dog.
To courgette or not to courgette
Dogs usually tolerate courgette well, however, over feeding your dog anything can lead to digestive upset, and it is always a good idea to observe your dog’s behaviour any time you offer them new food, as well as looking out for any signs of illness.
Can dogs eat all parts of the courgette plant?
However, if your dog is roaming around the garden and tends to eat everything in sight, you may want to make sure to have a check of what else you have growing, to make sure there isn’t anything potentially harmful they might pick up.
How to feed your dog courgette
Courgette can be served to dogs grilled, baked, or added to a homemade meal that is balanced with a good source of protein. However, avoid seasonings such as garlic or onion that are unsafe for your dog. If you plan on feeding your dog courgette, set a few chunks aside to cook separately rather than giving your pup part of your dinner. You should avoid feeding your dog courgette that has been prepared along with other ingredients. Plain and simple is the way forward!
If you are feeding your dog courgette for the first time, it is better to start with small quantities of the vegetable. Make sure to also serve in small chunks instead of large pieces to prevent choking. It’s also worth being aware that, although dogs can have courgette safely in small amounts, they may not necessarily like the way it tastes, so let them sniff first to see if they want to taste.
Remember to always follow the rule of no more than 10% when feeding your dog treats and ensure that the other 90% of their calories comes from a complete and balanced diet.
Now you know that dogs can eat courgette! Want to find out more about foods your dog can eat? Read our article, can dogs eat cucumber, next.
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