For most of us, eggplants are widely deemed to be vegetables. Actually, eggplants belong to the nightshade family of plants that are botanically considered fruits as these grow from a flowering plant and contain seeds.
And, what’s amazing about eggplants is that these are called in more names than one. In the UK and different parts of Europe, eggplants are called aubergine, while in South Asia like India and Sri Lanka, brinjal is the term they use.
Regardless of what you call it, eggplants, or aubergines, can be given to your dog. They are exploding in nutrients like antioxidants, iron, and calcium. Not only are these fruits low in calories and high in fiber, but they can also be consumed to support a healthier digestive tract. Be wary, though, as some dogs may be allergic to eggplants.
This article will show you why it is a cool idea to feed your pooch with aubergines. Can your dog eat this fruit every day? How many are safe, and are there repercussions that you need to be aware of?
Can Dogs Eat Eggplant?
Yes, but with caution. Dogs, like humans, have different levels of food tolerance.
If previously you’ve noticed that your dog showed a negative reaction to the nightshade family of plants such as potatoes and tomatoes, your dog is likely to be allergic to eggplants.
But we’ll get to that issue later. In the meantime, let’s tackle why aubergines or brinjals are good for your dog.
For Healthy Heart
Eggplants contain vital nutrients that can ward off heart disease. Potassium, vitamins B6 and C, and phytonutrients can contribute to keeping your dog’s heart in good shape.
Do you ever wonder what gives eggplants that beautiful purplish color? Anthocyanins are pigments that give eggplants that beautiful color. But anthocyanins give more than color as these are also flavonoids that act as antioxidants and lower blood pressure.
For Digestion
Aubergines have fiber that can aid in keeping your dog’s bowel movement regular. Fiber helps increase bulk and absorbs water so your dog would produce formed and firm stools.
In addition, fiber maintains healthy pH levels in the intestine to stop the growth of undesirable bacteria in the gut.
For Cancer Prevention
Eggplant is a fruit dense with chlorogenic acid and a natural antioxidant with numerous health benefits to dogs, like cancer prevention.
For Weight Loss
For fur parents who are looking for a snack that is healthy and low in calories, you’ll never go wrong with aubergines. These are great alternatives for dogs that need to lose weight.
And as fiber-rich fruits, aubergines can definitely help shed off those unwanted weights.
To talk more about why it’s a cool idea to feed your dog aubergines, here’s what a 3.5 oz eggplant carries in terms of nutritional value:
- 35 calories
- 23 g of fat
- 0.82 g of protein
- 8.64 g of carbs
- 2.5 g of fiber
- 188 mg of potassium
- 6 mg of calcium
- 1 mg of salt
- 0.12 mg of zinc
- 0.25 mg of iron
- 1.3 mg of vitamin C
- 15 mg of phosphorus
- 11 mg of magnesium
- 85 mg of vitamin B6
How Many Eggplants Can A Dog Eat?
After learning all the nutritional values of eggplant, perhaps you are tempted to feed your pooch with eggplants every day. But, wait, hold your horses because eggplants must only be given in moderation.
Supplementing your dog’s diet with healthy treats of fruits and veggies should only be limited to 10% of your dog’s diet.
Can A Dog Eat Raw Eggplant?
Yes, some dogs like the taste and texture of raw eggplants. All you need to do is to cube them and add these to your dog’s food; feeding your dog raw eggplant twice to thrice a week is enough.
By the way, there’s no need to remove the skin of the eggplant because that’s where fiber is present. Instead, what you need to be careful of are its leaves. It’s because the leaves contain a considerable amount of solanine which is not safe for your pooch and for you, as well.
Symptoms of eggplant leaves poisoning include abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and convulsions.
Can A Dog Eggplant Parm?
No, it’s because eggplant parmesan is made with cheese, garlic, onions, and other ingredients that can be bad for your pooch.
Thinking of frying the eggplant? It’s better not because you will only add unnecessary fat from the oil.
Instead, you can serve brinjal to your dog by boiling, grilling, or baking them. Eggplant in itself is tasty, so ditch the extra flavorings like salt and pepper because your dog’s tummy cannot handle those kitchen essentials.
Is Eggplant Bad For Dogs?
Generally speaking, eggplants are not bad for your dog.
But if your pooch has not eaten eggplants before, it’s best to give it a small piece and then watch out for any negative reaction. If there is, and your dog has had a history of food allergies, it’s safer not to give eggplants.
Some of the troubling reactions of allergies are digestive issues, swollen faces, and rashes. If you spotted any of those, it makes sense that you talk to a vet for allergy treatments.
Another point to consider before feeding your dog with aubergine is the current status of its kidneys. Eggplants have levels of oxalate that can worsen a dog’s kidney problems.
What about arthritis, is your dog suffering from joint issues? If yes, don’t feed it with eggplants because this fruit will only worsen the pain and make its mobility even more challenging.
