Can Dogs Eat Zucchini? Everything About Nutritional Benefits, Risks, and Special Considerations

 

Howdy, furry friend fans!

 

Do you love zucchini? I personally love them. They are so easy to cook: boil them/pan them, spice, or just salt and pepper. 

 

You know who else loves zucchinis? Dogs! Yes, a lot of dogs love Zucchinis. 

 

And we know that many pet parents are trying to add variety to their dog’s food, and it can be quite challenging. Whether it is because of gastrointestinal issues due to some foods or it is because of seeking new delicious treats - it is very difficult!

 

Humans eat zucchini raw or cooked, adding it to many meals—from salads to bread. Its high water content can provide satiety when consumed, and it is often included in weight-loss diets. So, here comes the question: “If zucchini is good for humans, can dogs eat zucchini also?” In general, zucchini is safe for dogs and can be a great treat.

 

We have created this mini guide about dogs and zucchini! After reading it, you will be able to make informed choices for your dog’s well-being!

 

Disclaimer: Check with your veterinarian whether it is safe to include zucchini in your dog's diet! While it can bring benefits to some dogs, it can also be harmful for other dogs depending on various factors.

 

Jump To:

• Can Dogs Eat Zucchini? Is Zucchini Good for Dogs?
• What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Zucchini for Dogs?
• Can Dogs Eat All Parts of the Zucchini Plant?
• Are There Any Risks or Side Effects of Feeding Zucchini to Dogs?
• How Should Zucchini Be Prepared and Served to Dogs? Can Dogs Eat Raw Zucchini?
• Are There Any Specific Conditions or Dog Breeds That Should Avoid Zucchini?
• What Other Vegetables Can Dogs Eat?

 

Also Read: Is Turmeric (Curcumin) Helping Dogs With Osteoarthritis?

Can Dogs Eat Zucchini? Is Zucchini Good for Dogs? 

 

Dogs can eat zucchini and it is safe for all ages. This veggie belongs to the squash family, it is low in calories, high in fiber, high in water, and contains many vitamins.

Because of this, it can be used as a treat for dogs that need to lose a few pounds, but also for dogs who don’t need to. 

 

It can be given to dogs raw or cooked, and if you are scared about the zucchini skin, know that this is one of the most nutritious parts of the vegetable.

 

If you decide to give the vegetable including the skin, make sure to wash it properly and if possible get an organic zucchini free of pesticides. 

 

Note: If you decide to give your dog raw and plain zucchini, give it in moderation, because the high fiber content might lead to an upset stomach.

 

The Benefits of Zucchini: Scientific Evidence 

 

Diagnosis of obesity can be made by patient nutritional and physical assessment in consultation, owner interview, and laboratory evaluations when assessed for scientific purposes. Most of the time, your vet doesn’t need all of this; they just need to see your dog and gently touch their ribs to approximate your dog's Body Condition Score.

 

The main cause of obesity is simple: overfeeding the dogs and giving them too many calories like treats. Also, the lack of physical exercise, and being neutered might lead to obesity. Aging in dogs can also lead to weight gain due to the lack of physical activity and the slower metabolism. Some dog breeds are more prone to obesity and this includes breeds like Labrador Retrievers, Beagles, Dachshunds, and Cocker Spaniels. Medical conditions like hypothyroidism, Cushing’s disease, and arthritis, as well as regular intake of some medications, can also lead to obesity. 

 

One study shows a weight loss program that covers 3 areas: 

• Reducing the caloric intake by promoting satiety
• Increasing the physical activity of dogs
• Monitoring the weight loss program

 

The first approach is to promote satiety by prescribing low-energy-density, high-protein, and L-carnitine-supplemented commercial diets. Additionally, owners need to encourage physical activity, while a tolerated weight loss rate of 2% per week is accepted. In this study, the author also suggests a diet consisting of 50% dry food combined with 50% canned food from commercially available products, divided into three equal meals. Zucchini was included in this program and was added as an extra or a treat because the dogs loved the taste.

 

This analysis showed that a 30-minute walk per day also helps, with an additional 10 minutes of exercise added each week until reaching 60 minutes. The study shows that animals tolerate zucchini well, mainly because it is a low-calorie treat beneficial for dogs during the weight loss process. 

 

The weight loss process in animals should be a proactive and multidisciplinary approach in which the owners are actively included. Zucchinis can be a great help to avoid high-calorie treats as shown in the previous study.

 

 

During this process, veterinarians also need to be more client-centered in communication. 

 

Cats and dogs can be quite similar in terms of feeding. Another research evaluated the effect of zucchini on urine calcium oxalate supersaturation and urinary parameters in adult cats. It evaluates the impact of a home-prepared diet containing zucchini and it was compared with two commercial therapeutic diets. 

 

After 7 days of consuming these diets, urine was collected and daily food and water intakes were assessed for 12 days. Also, urinary parameters, and relative supersaturation for calcium oxalate and struvite were determined.
The results showed that this diet is safe and allows very low urinary calcium oxalate relative supersaturation. 

 

This vegetable benefits the urinary system because its oxalic acid content is very low, has high water content, and low energy density.

 

Also Read: Chondroitin for Dogs - 5 Things You Need To Know - Vet’s Expert Advice

What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Zucchini for Dogs?

According to the National Agricultural Library, 100g of raw zucchini has the following composition: 

• Water: 94.8 g
• Calories: 17 kcal 
• Protein: 1.21 g
• Fat: 0.32 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Carbohydrate: 3.11 g

 

Zucchini also contains the following bioactive compounds: 

• Magnesium: 18 mg 
• Phosphorus: 38 mg 
• Potassium: 261 mg 
• Sodium: 8 mg 
• Vitamin C: 17.9 mg 
• Folate: 0.163 
• Vitamin A: 200 IU

 

Zucchini has a high water content which helps in keeping the dogs hydrated. This might be an excellent snack during the summertime. It is a low-calorie treat that can provide satiety. This vegetable is an excellent source of vitamin A. The interesting thing is that cooked zucchini contains more vitamin A than uncooked zucchini. This vitamin can support the vision and the immune system of animals.

Can Dogs Eat All Parts of the Zucchini Plant?

 

All parts of this veggie including the flower and leaves are non-toxic. The flowers of this plant are edible and delicious. However, this does not mean you can let your dog roam around yards and eat everything that is growing. You have to be aware and check if other potentially harmful plants exist there. 

 

Dogs tolerate zucchini well and it is an excellent choice to maintain a balanced diet mainly because of the low fat and sugar content.

Are There Any Risks or Side Effects of Feeding Zucchini to Dogs?

 

This summer squash is usually well-tolerated by dogs, however, pet owners need to be careful about any potential digestive upset that might occur. Zucchini, in some rare cases, especially raw zucchini might lead to a digestive upset due to the high fiber content. This is like everything else; we want to have a reasonable amount. 

 

Too much zucchini can also lead to gastrointestinal upset. This usually manifests with diarrhea, gases, and stomach upset. 

 

Note: After giving your dog zucchini, observe it and if you notice any side effects, call a veterinarian and stop giving it.

 

If possible, try to get an organic zucchini, without any pesticides. If you are not able to get organic zucchini, then make sure to wash the skin of the vegetable properly to avoid unwanted intake of pesticides. 

 

To avoid a potential choking hazard, the vegetable should be cut into easily chewable pieces (bite-sized pieces) - not too small, but also not too large. This depends on the size of your dog. If you are not able to make a decision about the size of the veggie piece, then consult with your vet.

How Should Zucchini Be Prepared and Served to Dogs? Can Dogs Eat Raw Zucchini?

Raw zucchini is safe for dogs, but it has to be given in moderation to avoid stomach upset like gases or diarrhea due to its fiber content. 

 

Do not feed your dog zucchini if you are using spices, butter, and oil during the cooking process. 

 

Boiling is the best cooking option for any food that is offered to pets. Grilled or baked zucchini is also a great option, especially if it is balanced with a good source of proteins. Cooking zucchini helps in breaking down any harmful bacteria that might be present in the vegetable.

 

This summer squash can be a great exchange for “dog ice cream”. You just need to slice it into thin pieces and freeze it. Then, you can serve the frozen zucchini to your dog as a refreshing summer treat. 

 

The vegetable has to be cut into manageable pieces that are easy to ingest. If it is the first time you are giving this vegetable, then observe your dog for allergic reactions. It is not likely to occur, but you still have to be on alert. 

 

Also, you have to follow the general rule and not add more than 10% of the daily allowed calorie intake when giving treats. The other 90% of the daily calories should come from a complete and balanced dog food.

Are There Any Specific Conditions or Dog Breeds That Should Avoid Zucchini?

 

This healthy treat is generally safe for dogs. However, if your dog has a specific condition, you should inform your veterinarian before offering zucchini. No particular breeds need to completely avoid zucchini.

 

Consulting with a professional can also help you decide how much zucchini is safe to include in your dog's diet.

 

Special Considerations

 

If your dog has some digestive issue or a sensitive stomach, you should consult with your veterinarian. Raw zucchini might lead to excessive gas production and stomach upset and that is why you need to introduce it to your dog carefully. 

 

Also, be aware if your dog is a picky eater or has some food allergy. Observe your dog when you introduce it. If you notice allergic reactions like digestive issues or skin problems, immediately consult with a veterinarian.

 

Also Read: Is Uc-Ii® a Better Dog Supplement Than Chondroitin and Glucosamine ?

What Other Vegetables Can Dogs Eat?

 

If your dog enjoys zucchini, there is a high chance that it might enjoy other vegetables. Some safe healthy vegetables for dogs include the following: 

• Broccoli 
• Carrots
• Cauliflower 
• Lettuce 
• Spinach 
• Celery 
• Green beans
• Sweet potato

 

Some of the most toxic vegetables to pets are onions and garlic. Try to keep these vegetables and the onion or garlic-spiced human food away from your dog.  

 

Disclaimer: Consult with a veterinarian before including any vegetable in your pet's diet. You can also get informed more about zucchini and dogs from your veterinarian. 

Conclusion

 

Zucchini is a safe and non-toxic summer squash for pets. Due to its high nutritional value and low caloric content, it is a great dog-friendly treat. Before including this vegetable in your pet's diet, we advise pet owners to consult with a veterinarian and get individualized advice. It also has to be prepared properly to avoid any risks.

 

Have you ever offered your pet zucchini? We are curious about their reaction! Let us know in the comments below!