Some dogs love eating human food, especially, when they see us eating. That being said, it’s important to realize that some human food can be toxic to dogs. That’s why we’re going to answer the question “can Pugs eat Brussel Sprouts” and the best way to feed them.
Can Pugs Eat Brussel Sprouts?
Yes, your Pug can eat Brussel sprouts. In fact, this veggie is packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants that can make a great addition to your dog’s diet.
Just be forewarned that this veggie can cause your four-legged friend to have a lot of gas. Don’t worry, we’ll get into how much you should feed your pooch below.
Related: Fresh Cooked Dog Food For Pugs
If you’re unsure of whether to feed your dog this veggie, consult with your veterinarian. Some dogs will react differently when you make a change to their regular diet.
Related: Can Pugs Eat Vegetables?
Are There Any Benefits To Feeding Brussel Sprouts To Pugs?
As you know, Brussel sprouts contain a lot of valuable nutrients that can provide health benefits for both you and your pooch.
For example, these miniature cabbages contain phytochemicals that are known to help prevent cancer. They also contain isothiocyanate, which is an anticancer fighting property.
While your dog may not get the same amount of benefits as we get from eating these veggies. If your dog likes them, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t add them to their diet.
Brussel sprouts have also been known to lower cholesterol in humans. While your dog may not have high cholesterol, there are still several reasons to feed your pooch this veggie.
Cancer Prevention
As I mentioned above, this veggie is known to help prevent cancer. This tasty vegetable is one of the best sources of glucosinolates – phytonutrients, which are nutrients that can help prevent cancer.
Unfortunately, cancer is a serious threat to a dog’s health as it is with humans. In fact, statistics show that 50 percent of dogs older than 10 years of age will die due to some form of cancer.
If feeding your pooch a small amount of this veggie can keep your dog healthy and possibly extend her life, there’s no reason why you shouldn’t try it.
Dietary Fiber
If you feed your pooch too much, they may cause flatulence. While it may not sound healthy to hear your dog farting all night long.
The truth is that this is completely healthy. All that gas your dog is experiencing is actually good for improving their bowel movements, which in turn supports colon health.
Even small amounts can cause increased flatulence. However stinky, they are a super healthy treat for your pooch!
Antioxidant Properties
As long as your dog enjoys the taste, these veggies contain tons of antioxidants and nutrients that can help strengthen their bones and help reduce inflammation.
This makes them a great treat for older Pugs, especially, if your dog suffers from canine arthritis.
Vitamins And Valuable Nutrients
This veggie is packed with plenty of valuable nutrients and vitamins such as Vitamin B, Vitamin K, and Vitamin C. Not to mention, they are abundant in folate and manganese, which are extremely beneficial for your four-legged friend.
These nutrients and vitamins will help with muscle growth, produce energy for your pooch (carbohydrates), and support overall bone growth and development.
Fun Brussel Sprouts Facts
Brussel Sprouts are considered a leafy green vegetable that is grown for the edible buds. It is considered a form of cabbage and belongs to the mustard family Brassicaceae.
The vegetable was named after the city of Brussels in Belgium. They were grown as early as 1200, but the first recorded description dates back to 1587.
Today, they have a poor reputation and were the most hated vegetable in America in 2011. (source)
When prepared properly, they have a sweet, nutty flavor with a crisp texture. If overcooked, they will have a strong foul odor and become mushy in texture.
Nutritional Facts
Major nutrients in one-half cup of cooked Brussel sprouts (78 grams):
Manganese: 9% of the RDI (Reference Daily Intake)
- Calories: 28
- Vitamin A: 12% RDI
- Fiber: 2 grams
- Carbs: 6 grams
- Vitamin K: 137% RDI
- Folate: 12% RDI
- Vitamin C: 81% RDI
- Manganese: 9% RDI
- Protein: 2 grams
Are Brussel Sprouts Safe For Pugs?
Brussel sprouts are completely safe for both you and your pooch. Make sure you wash them properly before feeding them to your dog.
Leafy green vegetables are known to have harmful pesticides that can be toxic to your pooch. If your dog loves eating vegetables, purchase the organic version.
Organic vegetables do not have any harmful chemicals or pesticides that can harm your pooch.
If you don’t want to spend any money, you can grow your own in your garden.
Digestive Problems Can Be Common
This vegetable has tons of benefits for your pooch if fed in small amounts. If you feed your dog too much, it can result in an upset stomach and diarrhea.
If your dog experiences any type of stomach issues, stop feeding them Brussel sprouts for a while and only introduce small amounts to them by adding it to their regular dog food.
Always monitor your pooch whenever feeding them human food or new food. It can take up to 24-48 hours for your dog to experience any side effects.
Do Dogs Like Brussel Sprouts?
Not all dogs will like the nutty taste of this vegetable. The great thing is that you’ll be able to tell very quickly if your dog likes the taste.
Just like humans, dogs react differently to different types of foods. My black Pug loved eating them, but it took her a while to get used to the taste.
If you give your Pug Brussel sprouts for the first time and they chew it and swallow it without any hesitation, they most likely enjoy eating it. You may notice them licking their lips and the floor looking for more of it.
On the other hand, if your dog doesn’t like eating this veggie, pay attention to these signs.
Like babies, they will spit the food out if they don’t like the taste. Your dog may also make an “ugly face” or jerk their mouth away when you attempt to feed them a small piece.
Some dogs will even play with their food if they don’t particularly enjoy eating it.
It’s not hard to tell whether or not your Pug enjoys eating Brussel sprouts or any other type of vegetable.
How Can I Feed Brussel Sprouts To Pugs
Cooked
Your dog may have an easier time eating cooked, pureed Brussel sprouts as they are easier to chew.
Many people prefer to roast or sautee them with bacon because it improves the flavor. It’s best to keep the prepared dish to yourself and NOT share any with your pooch.
When preparing them for your K9, make sure you just lightly boil them. You don’t want to overcook them, as this will ensure your dog receives the most nutrition.
Do not add any type of seasonings like salt or pepper. You might not like them, but plain cooked Brussel sprouts will be better for your dog’s taste buds.
Raw
Yes, you can feed your dog raw Brussel sprouts, however, your dog most likely won’t find them palatable, as they won’t have any flavor.
Alternatives To Brussel Sprouts For Pugs
If your pooch goes crazy whenever they see you eating fruits and veggies, you may want to consider letting them try the following ones:
- Carrots (Carrots have tons of benefits for dogs)
- Spinach
- Cucumbers (Can Pugs Eat Cucumbers?)
- Sweet Potatoes
Final Word On Feeding Pugs Brussel Sprouts
If your dog loves eating whatever you eat, there’s no reason NOT to add these miniature cabbages to their diet.
Whenever feeding your pooch any snacks, treats, or human food, always do so in moderation. Their snacks should never consume more than 10% of their regular dog food.
References And Further Reading
Wh Foods – The World’s Healthiest Foods
WebMD – Dogs And Cancer: Get The Facts