Are brussel sprouts okay for dogs?
Yes, a dog can eat brussel sprouts and they are safe for dogs if given in moderate quantity. Brussel sprouts contain 86% water, 3% protein, 9% carbohydrates and 2% other nutrients, minerals and vitamins. Since it has dietary fibre as well as vitamins it is a nutritious diet for dogs. Excess quantity of this vegetable may cause flatulence.
Brussel sprouts were first found in the 5th century and first known cultivation was in 13th century in Brussels, Belgium thus the name of this cabbage family of plant is Brussel Sprouts. These plants grown in temperature range of 7 to 24 degrees and are harvested in 90 to 180 days after plantation. The stalk of this plant which grows around 60 cm to 120 cm in height bears the edible part of the brussel sprouts in the form of buds in a helical pattern on the stalk. Each stalk bears around 900g of buds. Since it is grown in low temperatures the harvest season is from September to March. Brussel sprouts belong to the same family as cabbage, kohlrabi, kale and broccoli. The taste of this vegetable ranges from bitter to sweet depending on the delay in harvest and the types of seeds sown.
Are Brussel sprouts a healthy diet for my dogs?
Brussel sprouts contain antioxidants, vitamins, sulforaphane (a phytochemical), minerals and fibre all of which are good for the health of your dog. It also contains foliate, manganese and Potassium. Brussel sprouts are a safe and healthy food for your dear canine. It helps in blood circulation, is useful in improving immune system and the bone health of your pet.
How much quantity of Brussel Sprouts can I give my dog?
You may give a small quantity of brussel sprouts to your dog. Around 50g of this vegetarian food is enough for a single serving to your dog. If eaten in large quantity it may lead to gas, bloating and even diarrhoea. Give one teaspoon of brussel sprouts to your dog and if it likes the taste you may give it a half of a pet bowl.
Thus brussel sprouts is a healthy vegetarian option for your dear pet if given in moderate quantity after cooking it properly. You may give it once or twice a week to add antioxidants, fibre and other nutrients and minerals to your pet’s diet.
Can I give cooked brussel sprouts to my dog?
Absolutely, cooked brussel sprouts will be easier to eat and digest if given to your dogs in moderation. Raw brussel sprouts will be difficult to eat and digest by the dog so only cooked vegetable of this plant should be served to your dog and remember not to overcook it otherwise it will lose some of its major nutrients.
How are brussel sprouts cooked?
Brussel sprouts buds are first cut from the stalk and loose peels are removed. These are then cleaned and cut to a uniform size. It is cooked by steaming, boiling, grilling, sauté, roasting or slow cooking. A cut in the middle of each piece of sprout is made for the better heat penetration. Each method of preparation will give a different taste.
For human consumption cheese, onion and garlic etc are added to brussel sprouts. But if you are making it for your pet you have to serve them at room temperature after boiling or steaming. Fried brussel sprouts should not be served to the dogs as it is an unhealthy option. Serve it to your pet without any condiments.
Where can I get brussel sprouts?
Brussel sprouts are generally grown in Belgium, Netherlands, Germany and UK. Netherlands (production 82K metric tonnes) and Germany (production 10K metric tonnes) export this plant product to other countries of the world. USA has production of around 32K metric tonnes. You may get brussel sprouts from your nearest grocery store.
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