Arugula is a leafy green with a distinct flavor profile.  Arugula has a powerful flavor that works well in salads, as a side dish, and more. Arugula is also high in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals, all of which are beneficial to your health. But can dogs eat arugula?

Arugula is a vegetable that is non-toxic to dogs, which means it is safe to eat. You don't want to overfeed your dog with arugula, just like any other meal. Any new food you feed your dog should be given in moderation.

What is Arugula?

Arugula is a Mediterranean plant that is frequently utilized in cuisine. It was initially used as a medicinal plant and aphrodisiac, but it is now widely utilized in a variety of recipes, particularly in Italian cuisine. It shares a family with cabbage and mustard.

The leaves have a dark green tint with notches going up both sides, and some are big and spherical while others are thinner and sharper. It's usually served raw in salads or pasta, although it can also be cooked. It's abundantly available, simple to grow, and cheap.

Arugula Nutrition & Your Dog

While arugula is not a necessary part of a dog's diet, it can be beneficial to their health when consumed in moderation. This leafy green herb is abundant in vitamins and minerals that can have numerous health benefits for your dog:

• Vitamins - Arugula is a good source of vitamin K, vitamin B, and vitamin C.
• Minerals - Arugula contains potassium, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and iron.
• Chlorophyll - Arugula, like other leafy green vegetables, contains chlorophyll and other plant compounds. Chlorophyll can help the immune system and detoxify blood.

Arugula is also low in calories and fat which makes it a healthy snack for your furry friend.

Potential Health Concerns

When giving your dog any human food, even arugula, moderation is crucial. Always introduce new foods slowly over a few weeks and keep an eye out for any allergic responses. Arugula has a few drawbacks when consumed in excessive quantities, including the following.

Oxalic Acid

While arugula may not have as much oxalic acid as its leafy green siblings kale and spinach, it does have some. Oxalic acid binds to important minerals, making it difficult for your dog's body to absorb them correctly. However, cooking or boiling arugula greatly reduces this impact.

Goitrogen

Goitrogen is a substance that inhibits your dog's thyroid gland and can interfere with the intake of iodine, which is necessary for a healthy thyroid. Almost all cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, kale, and arugula, contain these chemicals. Cooking arugula will mitigate this issue.

Allergies

Like humans, dogs can be allergic to a wide range of foods and other allergens. Your dog may be allergic to arugula. When you give your dog a new food, it is important to monitor him to watch for signs of an allergic reaction. If your dog is allergic to arugula and has eaten some, contact your veterinarian.

Review: Can Dogs Eat Arugula?

Arugula is a low-calorie leafy green that can provide significant health benefits to your dog. It's non-toxic, readily available, and easy to prepare, making it an excellent supplement to your dog's normal diet. 

Arugula can be added to your dogs regular food for an extra healthy boost. Boil or steam it before feeding it to your dog, as this will greatly reduce any potential negative effects.