Can Dogs Have Broccoli?

In this article:

• Is broccoli safe for dogs?
• What are the nutritional benefits of broccoli for dogs?
• Why do some dogs react to broccoli?
• How much broccoli can dogs eat?
• How can I prepare and serve broccoli to my dog at home?
• Which dogs should avoid broccoli?

Yes—broccoli can be a safe, nutritious, and beneficial food for dogs, depending on how it’s prepared and served. You can incorporate broccoli into your dog’s diet on its own as a small, plain topper or treat, or as a whole-food ingredient included as part of a complete and balanced food formulated by board-certified nutritionists like those who are on staff at The Farmer’s Dog. In both cases, broccoli delivers fiber, vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients that can support overall wellness when portioned appropriately and integrated thoughtfully.

Is broccoli safe for dogs?

Short answer: Yes, broccoli is safe for most healthy dogs to eat in moderation and with proper preparation. Most healthy adult dogs tolerate a few bite‑sized pieces of plain broccoli as an occasional topper or treat, or as part of a complete and balanced food. Having said that, always ask your veterinarian before introducing any new food into your dog’s diet. They’re the best authority on what’s right for your dog considering their individual needs and history.

Nutritional benefits of broccoli

Broccoli is naturally low in fat and calories. It contains fiber for digestive health, vitamin C for antioxidant support, vitamin K, folate, protein, and potassium. In complete and balanced recipes, these benefits are captured in correct proportions by board-certified nutritionists to complement other nutrient-dense ingredients.

Why do some dogs react to broccoli (glucosinolates and isothiocyanates)?

Broccoli and other vegetables in the brassicas family (for example, kale) contain glucosinolates, which break down into isothiocyanates—compounds that can irritate a dog’s gastrointestinal tract if eaten in large amounts. Some dogs may show mild gas or loose stools after eating broccoli, while others tolerate small portions well. The fibrous stems can also become stuck in the intestines if fed raw or in large chunks, so it’s important to chop broccoli down into small, manageable pieces and not feed raw stems. Whether serving as a topper or relying on complete recipes that incorporate broccoli safely, the key is size, softness, and balance.

How much broccoli can dogs eat?

Always follow the “10% rule” for treats and extras

If adding broccoli yourself, follow the 10% rule: All treats and toppers combined, including broccoli, should make up no more than 10% of a dog’s daily calories. Following this rule helps prevent nutrient imbalance and weight gain. If you’re not sure how much of a particular food your dog can eat, ask your vet for advice.

Broccoli in complete and balanced food

When broccoli is part of a complete and balanced food, as is the case in The Farmer’s Dog recipes, it’s included in precise, research-based quantities. Our on-staff, board-certified nutritionists ensure that broccoli and all other ingredients in our foods are utilized in proper quantities and ratios to support good health in dogs.

How to prepare and serve broccoli at home

Before adding any new food to your dog’s diet, be sure to check in with your veterinarian. They can help determine if a specific food is appropriate for your dog.

Raw vs. cooked: Pros and cons

Both raw and cooked broccoli can be safe for dogs in small amounts. Gently steaming until tender softens its texture. Keep it plain—no oils, butter, or spices.

Florets vs. stems (and leaves)

Favor small, soft florets. Stems are fibrous and more likely to lodge if not finely chopped. If using stems, peel, mince, and cook until tender, discarding woody ends.

Avoid seasoning the broccoli

Skip salt, garlic, onion, butter, oils, and seasonings.

Which dogs should avoid broccoli?

Dogs with sensitive stomachs may react poorly to new or fibrous foods. If your dog has thyroid disease, avoid large, frequent servings of brassicas. Occasional tiny amounts are unlikely to cause harm, especially when part of a balanced formulation. Still, consult your veterinarian for any condition-specific guidance.

What to watch for and when to call the vet

Your dog may become a bit gassy or have soft stool when you introduce any new food. Keep an eye out for vomiting, diarrhea that lasts more than 24 hours, lethargy, abdominal pain, drooling, hunched posture, or refusal to eat—if you notice any of those signs, call your veterinarian.

The bottom line

Broccoli can be healthy for dogs as an occasional treat or part of a complete and balanced food like The Farmer’s Dog, which is formulated by on-staff, board-certified nutritionists. Remember that, for everyday nutrition, your dog’s primary diet should always be a complete and balanced food.