Last Updated on
Being low in calories is just one reason zucchini is a great treat for dogs.
When it comes to this super squash, you can absolutely let your pet pooch partake. No problem!
Not only is Zucchini safe, it’ll be a beneficial addition to your dog’s diet.
Dogs Can Eat Zucchini Too
Sharing some would be healthy for a hungry hound!
Though vegetables are not a requirement for your dog, fresh zucchini is a excellent source of valuable nutrients (especially potassium and vitamin C).
Even if your buddy’s daily chow isn’t lacking in this area, summer squash can still complement their diet!
Here’s what we really love:
Zucchini’s low calorie count (only 2 or 3 per slice or approximately 20 cal in a standard volume measuring cup). Basically, this veggie won’t crowd out your dog’s regular protein-packed meals.
Zucchini Dishes And Preparation
So it’s clear that, much like cucumber, zucchini makes for a wonderful light snack.
And there are various ways to prepare it for eating, though it’s a good idea to feed your dog raw zucchini! However, you can also cook it in the following ways (listed from best to worst):
- Steamed
- Baked
- Grilled
- Microwaved (yes, really!)
- Boiled
- Barbecued
- Fried
Obviously frying zucchini is not as healthy as most other cooking methods and this aspect also applies to your dog.
As far as dishes go — the possibilities are endless, but we favor keeping it very simple.
The thing is certain people foods served along side zucchini are best avoided when it comes to dogs. Onions would be an example of this. But others, like eggplant, are fine.
Bread, Muffins And Begging!
Obviously allowing your dog to eat various delicious delights can lead to begging which, as you probably know, is a really tough habit to break.
It’s a slippery slope — that is why we do not recommend sharing tasty zucchini bread or muffins.
Don’t get fancy and your dog will fare well over the long-term.
Too Much of a Good Thing
You have got to be on the lookout for clues when introducing your dog to new foods.
A change for the worse in regards to bowel movements is an indicator that the stomach doesn’t agree with the meal. Yes! Zucchini can cause this to happen as well.
Too much, even of the healthy stuff, can be a bad thing. And, keep in mind, every dog has their own tolerance level to whatever’s being fed. It’s a crap shoot (no pun intended)!
Truth be told, canines should not be eating a ton of zucchini anyway.
Your dog is not a vegetarian so don’t get carried away with zucchini. Moderation is a must!
The Bottom Line
Your dog can eat cooked or raw zucchini and there are benefits to be had!
There isn’t a strong case against sharing but, as part of a recipe, be sure there is nothing else that could be harmful.
Do that, while keeping zucchini portions reasonable, and feeding time will be uneventfully nourishing.
It is, of course, possible that your dog’s stomach won’t agree. Keep an eye on your furry friend!
I make my dog’s food. I use chicken livers sauteed in coconut oil, oatmeal (cooked), brown rice, carrots, sweet potatoes, zucchini, green beans and peas. Sometimes I add finely chopped raw apples too. Then I stir all of this together with a can of pureed pumpkin (the kind you use to make a pie) some turmeric, just a bit of pepper to help the turmeric and some omega 3 and 6 oil.