Can dogs eat spinach?

Why

Spinach contains oxalates which can build up in the body and potentially lead to kidney stones or kidney damage if fed in large quantities over time. It also contains nitrates that can interfere with the blood's ability to carry oxygen if consumed excessively. Because of these risks, it is best to treat spinach as an occasional treat rather than a staple food.

If you do feed it

• Limit to a few small, chopped leaves no more than once or twice a week.
• Always serve raw or lightly steamed without any added salt, butter, garlic, or onions.
• Introduce only a tiny amount at first to check for any digestive upset.
• Avoid feeding spinach to dogs with a history of kidney issues or urinary stones.

Watch out for

• Spinach leaves with high oxalate content
• Prepared spinach with garlic, onions, or salt
• Spinach soup or smoothies with added ingredients
• Large quantities fed regularly

Better choices