Vegetables for Dogs:  Top 20 Choices

By Janice Jones   | Updated December 2025

Vegetables can be a healthy, low-calorie way to supplement your dog’s diet and add variety without relying on highly processed treats.

When chosen carefully and served in appropriate portions, many vegetables provide fiber, moisture, and beneficial nutrients that support overall wellness.

That said, not all vegetables are safe for dogs, and even healthy options should be offered thoughtfully. Portion size, preparation method, and your dog’s age, size, and individual tolerance all matter.

This guide answers common questions dog owners have, including:

• Which vegetables are safe for dogs to eat
• Which vegetables should be avoided
• How much is too much
• How to prepare vegetables safely for dogs

There’s an essential difference between offering a small, nutritious vegetable treat and feeding table scraps. The goal is to supplement a balanced diet, not replace it.

Do Dogs Need Vegetables?

Dogs are facultative carnivores, meaning they thrive primarily on animal-based nutrition but can digest and benefit from small amounts of certain plant foods.

A high-quality commercial dog food is designed to be nutritionally complete. Vegetables are optional, but they can:

• Add fiber to support normal digestion
• Increase moisture intake
• Provide variety and enrichment
• Serve as low-calorie training treats

Vegetables should never replace protein or fat as primary sources of calories.

Nutrients Vegetables Can Provide

When fed appropriately, vegetables may contribute:

• Dietary fiber
• Antioxidants
• Vitamins and minerals
• Water content for hydration

They are not intended to treat disease but may support overall health as part of a balanced diet.

Vegetables Used as Training Treats

While we may know our dog well and worry about their health, do we really need anything else other than dog food?  Most dog owners will provide additional treats to their dog.  When training for the first time, training treats are often used as a motivator.

Rather than purchasing ready made treats, tiny bits of carrots and apples can be used instead of manufactured treats that are questionable in quality and safety.

Let's face it people who are very concerned about their dog's nutrition may forget to look on the labels of pet treats.  Many treats come from questionable sources, contain questionable ingredients, and may have no nutritional value at all.

We’ve also put together a list of foods dogs should not eat. Do check that out as not all vegetables are healthy and safe for dogs.

You’ll also find the calorie content of these foods and a way to decide how to incorporate them into your fur friend’s daily diet.

---

Vegetables Safe for Dogs of All Sizes

Here's our list of 20 vegetables dogs can enjoy.

Vegetable for Dogs: Asparagus?

Asparagus
1 spear ≈ 3 calories

Benefits

• Low calorie
• Contains fiber

Risks & Limits

• Tough stalks can be hard to digest
• Overfeeding may cause GI upset

Preparation

• Steam or boil until soft
• Remove woody ends
• Chop into small pieces

Avoid

• Raw asparagus
• Seasonings or oils

---

Bell Peppers (Red, Yellow, Orange)

Bell peppers are safe for dogs and are one of the better vegetable options when fed in moderation. Red bell peppers are the most nutrient-dense, but all colors are safe.

Bell Peppers
1–2 small strips ≈ 5 calories

Benefits

• Fiber
• Low-calorie and hydrating

Risks & Limits

• May cause mild stomach upset in sensitive dogs
• Seeds and stems can be irritating

Preparation

• Remove seeds and stem
• Serve raw or lightly cooked
• Cut into small strips

Avoid

• Hot peppers (jalapeños, chili peppers)
• Seasoned or sautéed peppers

---

Beets

Beets are safe for dogs when cooked and served in small portions. They are naturally sweet and should be considered an occasional treat rather than a dietary staple.

Beets
1 tablespoon cooked ≈ 9 calories

Benefits

• Fiber
• Natural antioxidants

Risks & Limits

• High natural sugar content
• May discolor urine or stool
• Can contribute to loose stools if overfed

Preparation

• Boil or roast until soft
• Peel and dice finely

Avoid

• Raw beets
• Pickled or seasoned beets

---

Vegetables for Dogs:  Broccoli?

Broccoli is safe for dogs, but it should be fed sparingly due to its potential to cause digestive upset.

Broccoli
1–2 small florets ≈ 5–10 calories

Benefits

• Fiber support

Risks & Limits

• Gas and stomach upset
• Should not exceed ~10% of daily intake

Preparation

• Steam until soft
• Serve in tiny pieces

Avoid

• Large portions
• Raw florets

---

Vegetables for Dogs: Brussel Sprouts?

Brussels sprouts are safe for dogs in tiny amounts, but they commonly cause gas.

Brussels Sprouts
1 small sprout ≈ 8 calories

Benefits

• Fiber

Risks & Limits

• Flatulence, bloating, diarrhea

Preparation

• Steam or boil until soft
• Chop finely

Avoid

• Raw sprouts
• Frequent feeding

---

Cabbage (Green or Red)

Cabbage is safe for dogs when cooked and fed in moderation. Like other cruciferous vegetables, it can cause gas if served too frequently.

Cabbage
1 tablespoon cooked ≈ 3 calories

Benefits

• Fiber
• Low-calorie filler

Risks & Limits

• Flatulence and bloating
• May upset sensitive stomachs

Preparation

• Boil or steam until soft
• Chop finely

Avoid

• Raw cabbage
• Large portions

---

Vegetables for Dogs: Carrots

Vegetables for Dogs: Carrots 

Carrots are safe for dogs and among the most commonly recommended vegetables. They are low in calories and provide fiber, making them a good option for weight-conscious dogs.

Benefits

• Supports digestive health due to fiber
• Crunchy texture may help reduce plaque buildup

Risks & Limits

• Too many carrots may cause gas or loose stools
• Always cut into small pieces for toy and small breeds

Preparation

• Serve raw or lightly cooked
• Chop or grate for small dogs
• No salt, butter, or seasoning

What to Avoid

• Large chunks that pose a choking risk
• Excessive portions

---

Vegetables for Dogs: Cauliflower?

Cauliflower is safe for dogs but should be fed occasionally.

Cauliflower
1 floret ≈ 4 calories

Benefits

• Fiber

Risks & Limits

• Gas and bloating

Preparation

• Steam or boil
• Cut into small pieces

Avoid

• Raw florets

---

Vegetables for Dogs: Celery

Celery is safe for dogs but provides minimal nutrition.

Celery
4-inch piece ≈ 1 calorie

Benefits

• Hydration
• Crunchy texture

Risks & Limits

• Stringy texture can cause choking

Preparation

• Remove strings
• Chop very small

Avoid

• Large raw pieces

---

Vegetables for Dogs: Cucumbers?

Cucumbers are safe for dogs and are mostly water.

Cucumbers
1 slice ≈ 1 calorie

Benefits

• Hydration
• Very low-calorie

Risks & Limits

• Diarrhea if overfed

Preparation

• Peel and slice thin

Avoid

• Pickled cucumbers

---

Vegetables for Dogs: Green Beans

Green beans are safe for dogs and commonly used in weight control.

Green Beans
½ cup ≈ 6 calories

Benefits

• Fiber
• Low-calorie filler

Risks & Limits

• Excess may cause gas

Preparation

• Raw or cooked
• Chop for small dogs

Avoid

• Canned beans with salt

---

Kale (Small amounts only)

Kale is safe for dogs in very small amounts, but it should be fed sparingly. While nutrient-dense, kale contains compounds that can cause digestive upset and may interfere with thyroid function if overfed.

Kale
1 tablespoon cooked ≈ 3 calories

Benefits

• Fiber
• Low calorie

Risks & Limits

• Can cause gas and bloating
• Contains goitrogens and oxalates
• Not ideal for dogs with thyroid or kidney issues

Preparation

• Lightly steam or sauté without oil
• Chop finely

Avoid

• Raw kale
• Large or frequent servings

---

Vegetables for Dogs: Lettuce

Lettuce is safe for dogs but offers little nutritional value.

Lettuce
1 leaf ≈ 1 calorie

Benefits

• Hydration

Risks & Limits

• Diarrhea if overfed

Preparation

• Wash and chop

Avoid

• Large leaves

---

Vegetables for Dogs: Peas?

Peas are safe for dogs when fed in moderation.

Peas
⅛ cup ≈ 15 calories

Benefits

• Fiber
• Plant protein

Risks & Limits

• Excess may contribute to GI upset

Preparation

• Cooked or thawed frozen

Avoid

• Seasoned peas

---

Vegetables for Dogs: Pumpkin

Pumpkin is safe for dogs and widely used for digestive support.

Pumpkin
1 tablespoon ≈ 5 calories

Benefits

• Stool regulation
• Fiber

Risks & Limits

• Too much may loosen stools

Preparation

• Plain canned pumpkin only

Avoid

• Pumpkin pie filling

---

Radishes

Vegetables for Dogs: Radishes

Radishes are safe for dogs, but they are not commonly enjoyed and should be offered only occasionally.

Radishes
1 thin slice ≈ 1 calorie

Benefits

• Crunchy texture
• Very low-calorie

Risks & Limits

• Peppery flavor may cause stomach upset
• Can irritate sensitive digestive systems

Preparation

• Wash thoroughly
• Slice very thin or grate

Avoid

• Large pieces
• Frequent feeding

---

Squash

Squash is safe for dogs when cooked and served plain. Both summer squash (zucchini, yellow squash) and winter squash (butternut, acorn) are acceptable.

Squash
1 tablespoon cooked ≈ 5–10 calories

Benefits

• Fiber for digestion
• Low to moderate calorie, depending on variety

Risks & Limits

• Too much may loosen stools
• Winter squash is higher in carbohydrates

Preparation

• Bake, steam, or boil until soft
• Mash or dice finely

Avoid

• Raw squash
• Butter, oil, sugar, or seasoning

---

Vegetables for Dogs: Sweet Potatoes?

Sweet potatoes are safe for dogs when cooked.

Sweet Potatoes
1 tablespoon ≈ 13 calories

Benefits

• Fiber
• Slow-release carbohydrates

Risks & Limits

• High calorie intake if overfed

Preparation

• Baked or boiled plain

Avoid

• Raw sweet potatoes

---

Vegetables for Dogs: Turnips, Rutabagas and Parsnips

These root vegetables are safe for dogs when cooked.

Root Vegetables
1 tablespoon ≈ 10–20 calories

Benefits

• Fiber

Risks & Limits

• Gas if overfed

Preparation

• Boil or steam
• Mash or dice small

Avoid

• Large raw chunks

---

Vegetables for Dogs: Zucchini / Courgette

Zucchini is safe for dogs and well-tolerated.

Zucchini
1 cup ≈ 20 calories

Benefits

• Hydration
• Low calorie

Risks & Limits

• Minimal; overfeeding may soften stools

Preparation

• Raw or cooked
• Serve plain

Avoid

• Breads or seasoned dishes

---

Vegetables That Require Caution

Spinach

Spinach is safe for dogs in small amounts.

Spinach
1 tablespoon cooked ≈ 3 calories

Benefits

• Fiber

Risks & Limits

• Oxalates may affect the kidneys if overfed

Preparation

• Lightly cooked
• Chop finely

Avoid

• Large or frequent servings

---

Tomatoes

Ripe tomatoes are safe for dogs in small amounts.

Tomatoes
1 slice ≈ 4 calories

Benefits

• Hydration

Risks & Limits

• Green parts are toxic

Preparation

• Serve ripe only

Avoid

• Leaves, stems, unripe tomatoes

---

White Potatoes

Potatoes are safe for dogs only when fully cooked.

White Potatoes
1 tablespoon ≈ 11 calories

Benefits

• Easily digestible starch

Risks & Limits

• High glycemic load
• Raw potatoes are toxic

Preparation

• Boiled or baked plain

Avoid

• Raw potatoes
• Skins, sprouts

---

Vegetables Your Dog Should NOT Eat

This list includes fruits and vegetables that you should not give to your dog.  A more comprehensive list of foods toxic to dogs can be found here.

Hints for Feeding Vegetables for Dogs

• Always core apples before giving the fleshy part to your dogs. Don't feed seeds.
  
• Many dogs love raw carrots, but if yours does not, steam or boil them slightly.
  
• Always remove seeds from fruit before giving them to your dog.
• Keep treats down to about 10% of your dog’s total daily food intake.
• If your dog makes a mess with mushy bananas, pop some slices in the freezer and offer them frozen.  (Makes a great summer treat)
• You can offer vegetables raw (unless otherwise noted), slightly steamed, boiled, or baked; sliced, diced or pureed.
• Think your dog would benefit from vegetables or fruit, but they won’t give them a try?  Try a spoonful of vegetable baby food mixed with his regular food.
• Watch your dog’s stools after giving vegetables.  If diarrhea develops or he appears to defecate more frequently and in larger quantities, reduce the amount of vegetables you are providing.
  

---

Adding Vegetables for Dogs to Normal Diets

The average small 10 pound dog needs less than 375 calories per day.  (More for pregnant and lactating females and less for weigh loss) Very active dogs will need additional calories.

Check your dog’s food package to determine how many calories he is getting from his normal food.  Adjust any of these fruits and vegetables for dogs snacks accordingly.

More information on calculating caloric intake.

Additional References Used in Vegetables for Dogs

https://blog.homesalive.ca/health-benefits-of-pumpkin-for-dogs

https://www.healthline.com/

https://www.nutritionadvance.com/

https://www.akc.org

If you Enjoyed this Page on Vegetables for Dogs, may we Suggest...