Can Dogs Eat Asparagus?

Key Points:

• Yes, dogs can safely consume asparagus in cooked form and in moderation.
• Asparagus provides dogs with essential vitamins like K, A, and B-complex.
• Some dogs may find the strong flavor of asparagus unappealing.
• Dogs should avoid eating the fibrous base of the asparagus stalk.
• Consuming too much asparagus can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs.

Yes, most dogs can eat asparagus. If cooked, cut into bite-sized pieces, and prepared without seasonings, your dog can absolutely enjoy some asparagus every once in a while.

Health benefits of asparagus for dogs

Asparagus is low in calories, fats, and sugar, too – which makes it an acceptable treat for your dog – if your dog thinks green veggies are ‘treats’, that is.

This low-calorie veggie provides many nutrients such as:

• B-complex vitamins
• Vitamins A, C, and K
• Micronutrients like potassium, zinc, and iron
• Powerful antioxidants to combat cell-damaging free radicals
• Loads of dietary fiber 

Tasty ways to serve asparagus to your pooch

In a smoothie: Blend healthy, dog-friendly fruits and vegetables with plain, Greek yogurt, asparagus and sweet potatoes for a tasty smoothie that packs a dog-approved nutritional punch!

In a bowl: Asparagus contains few calories and no sugar. Chop stalks into small pieces and add them to your dog’s food bowl. Diabetic dogs and overweight dogs will appreciate the fiber, which fills them up and keeps them satisfied for longer. 

Hand-fed treats: Offer a plain, unseasoned morsel to your puppy-eyed canine when asparagus is on your menu.

Asparagus soup: Sodium-free chicken broth, chopped spinach, diced chicken (boiled with no spices, please), asparagus, and some diced, cooked sweet potatoes can make for a healthy soup that your dog will slurp down on cold winter days.

FAQs

Are there any risks in dogs eating asparagus?

Asparagus contains both insoluble fiber and soluble fiber which can be a lot on your dog’s digestive system. An excess of dietary fiber can cause gassiness, stomach upset, and vomiting. 

Tip: not all parts of the asparagus plant are safe for your dog. Though you will only really have to worry about this if you have an asparagus plant within reach, it’s important to note that the berries from the asparagus fern are toxic to our dogs (and us humans!) Stick to the tender asparagus spears and you should be good to go.

Can my dog eat raw asparagus?

Raw asparagus stalks are tough and a choking hazard if not properly prepared, especially for small dogs. Skip the unnecessary stress – try cooking the asparagus and cutting it into bite-sized pieces instead.

Is canned asparagus safe for my dog?

Canned asparagus often has too much salt for dogs. Cooked, unseasoned fresh asparagus is a healthy snack and safer. Too much salt can be toxic to your dog, causing salt poisoning which requires immediate veterinary attention. 

Can I offer my dog an asparagus spear from my plate?

If you’re a person who loves lots of seasonings on their veggies, it’s probably not wise to offer your dog an asparagus spear from your plate. Seasonings can be dangerous for dogs, so if you plan on giving your dog a few pieces of asparagus make sure you prepare a few plain spears for them.

Can diabetic or overweight dogs eat asparagus?

Asparagus is low in both calories and fats and has no sugars. Overweight and diabetic dogs can definitely benefit from eating this veggie instead of high-fat commercial treats. As always, be sure to check with your veterinarian before offering them to your dog.

Any fruit or vegetable that’s more than an occasional treat is unhealthy. A dog’s diet should follow the 90/10 rule: 90% of your dog’s daily caloric intake should come from well-balanced dog food and 10% from treats. Feeding your dog too many treats will lead to weight gain and obesity.

Lynn Guthrie

Writer, Mom of a Fab Fur Fam of Five

Lynn is a writer and long-time Learning & Development Manager at a large PNW retailer. She's also mom to 3 dogs & 2 cats!