Dogs · Guide
Can Dogs Eat Eggplant?
Yes, dogs can eat a little plain eggplant, peeled, cooked, and cut small. Here is what to leave out, how much to give, and what to know about eggplant dishes.
Yes, dogs can eat a little eggplant. The AKC says it is fine in small amounts as an occasional treat. Peel it, take off the stem, cook it, and cut it into tiny pieces. Keep it plain, with no oil, salt, onion, or garlic.
Is eggplant safe for dogs?
The AKC says eggplant is fine for dogs in moderation. The fruit has a natural plant chemical called solanine, which the plant makes to protect itself. The AKC says the fruit is not truly toxic in normal amounts.
The most solanine is in the green parts, like the leaves and blossoms. That is why the AKC tells owners to take off the stem. The sources I read did not say what happens if a dog eats the leaves or stems. If your dog chewed on an eggplant plant, call your vet.
The AKC also says eggplant has fiber, potassium, and some vitamins. It adds that eggplant should not replace a complete, balanced dog food.
How do I serve eggplant to my dog?
The AKC gives these steps:
- Cut off the stem.
- Wash the eggplant well to remove pesticides.
- Peel it. The skin is not toxic, but it can be hard to chew and could cause choking, especially for puppies.
- Cut it into small, bite-size pieces.
- Cook it, so it is soft and easier to eat.
Never give a whole eggplant. Start with one small piece and see how your dog does. The AKC suggests introducing new foods slowly.
How much eggplant can a dog have?
The AKC does not give a set amount. It says the right amount depends on your dog’s size, age, and needs, and suggests asking your vet. This matters most for very small dogs and very large dogs.
The AKC says treats, including vegetables, should be no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. Too much eggplant has a lot of fiber, which can upset your dog’s belly.
What about eggplant dishes?
Plain eggplant is one thing. Eggplant parmesan, baba ganoush, and fried eggplant are another. The AKC page does not talk about sauces, oils, or seasonings, so here is what other sources say about common ingredients.
- Onion and garlic. The ASPCA says they can irritate the stomach and damage red blood cells, which can lead to anemia (too few healthy red blood cells). The Merck Veterinary Manual says raw, cooked, and dried onion and garlic can all cause this. Signs usually show up a few days later: tiredness, weakness, pale gums, fast breathing, and dark urine.
- Salt. The ASPCA says too much salt can cause thirst, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and seizures in bad cases.
- Oil and fat. I did not find a source that talks about oil on eggplant. The ASPCA does say fatty foods such as nuts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes pancreatitis, a painful swelling of the pancreas. Skipping greasy food is the simple choice.
So fried eggplant, eggplant parmesan, and spicy or garlicky dips are not good picks for your dog.
What signs should I watch for?
The AKC lists these signs after eating eggplant:
- Diarrhea or vomiting
- Upset stomach or belly pain
- Low energy
- Needing to go outside more often
Call your vet if your dog has these signs, or if you are worried about how much your dog ate. For serious cases, the AKC points to Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661.
What else can I give my dog instead?
If eggplant is not a hit, other plain vegetables can work. Try green beans or carrots. Some foods in the same kitchen are risky, so also read about garlic and onions.
Common questions
Is eggplant poisonous to dogs?
Not in normal amounts. The AKC says the fruit contains a natural plant chemical called solanine, but it is not truly toxic in normal amounts. The green parts, like the stem, have the most.
Can dogs eat eggplant skin?
The AKC says the skin is not toxic, but it can be hard to chew and may cause choking, especially in puppies. Peeling it is the easier choice.
Can dogs eat raw eggplant?
The AKC page is mixed. It says raw eggplant is acceptable, but its steps say to cook it, and that cooked eggplant is easier to chew and digest. Cooked is the simpler choice.
Can puppies eat eggplant?
The AKC says cooked eggplant is easier for puppies and small dogs to chew and digest. Give only a tiny piece and ask your vet first, since amounts depend on size and age.