Brussels Sprouts for Dogs: A Complete Guide

Can dogs eat Brussels sprouts?

Yes, dogs can eat Brussels sprouts says our in-house dog nutritionist.

I doubt there can be a more maligned vegetable in the Western world than the humble Brussels sprout. People either love them or hate them, and most children seem to hate them by default.

As a child, I used to love them, despite the fact that mum used to massively overcook them as was commonplace back then. I rather suspect that very fact could be responsible for the vegetable’s generally bad press today.

My wife grows our own, something I highly recommend. They’re tastier, fresher and don’t repeat on me like shop-bought sprouts. They’re also a major hit with our dogs!

Sprouts don’t give my dogs wind

Despite what you may hear to the contrary, spouts don’t give my dogs wind, and trust me, they get rather a lot of them. So please don’t let that be the reason you’re still asking yourself the question, can I give my dog Brussels sprouts.

But the other major benefit of growing your own Brussels sprouts is that they produce the most nutritious outer leaves and tops that are generally discarded long before they reach the shops.

In the shop you see them as perfectly round bulbs even when you buy them on the stem. But as they grow they produce the most delicious leaves like collard greens or cabbage leaves.

Sweet and succulent, they’re highly nutritious. We love them, my dogs love them, everyone’s a winner as the nation’s favourite, Del Boy used to say!

Health benefits of Brussels sprouts for dogs

Brussels sprouts are simply brimming with goodness. Antioxidant, vitamin and mineral rich, they’re a terrific source of vitamins like vitamin C and K. They’re also a good source of fibre, which of course benefits the digestive system, and they’re good for your dog’s muscles and heart, circulation and bones. They’re also a good source of energy and have the ability to help fight cancer.

Key health benefits of Brussels sprouts for dogs include:

• Bone health & blood clotting: Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of vitamin K which plays a vital role in proper blood clotting, regulating blood calcium levels and sustaining strong bones.
• Immune system support: rich in vitamin C and vitamin A, Brussels sprouts give a natural boost to your dog’s immune system, encourage healthy skin and coats and assist with cell repair.
• Cellular protection: high levels of antioxidants like sulforaphane and kaempferol help fight oxidative stress, lower inflammation, and neutralise free radicals which can help prevent chronic diseases and certain cancers.
• Digestive regulation: the dietary fibre in Brussels sprouts promotes regular bowel movements, prevents constipation and feeds beneficial gut bacteria.
• Metabolism boost: Brussels sprouts provide B vitamins (B1 and B6) which aid in energy metabolism, support the nervous system and assist in creating new cells.
• Weight management: because they are exceptionally low in calories, fat and sugar, Brussels sprouts serve as a filling, nutrient-dense food option for diabetic or overweight dogs.

Please don’t be put off giving your dog these nutritious brassicas. My dogs certainly look forward to theirs. Don’t be one of those who continually asks, can I give my dog Brussels sprouts? Give them a go. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised!

How much Brussels sprouts can dogs eat?

Stick to the standard 10 percent rule. As with any fresh food ingredient, Brussels sprouts should not exceed more than 10 percent of your dog’s overall diet.

Search our Brussels sprouts recipes: