With many health concerns rising over potato chips and “junk food,” we are slowly resorting to alternatives like kale chips as healthier options.
After all, kale is a nutrient-dense food.
So, as you turn to your new bag of kale chips, your canine companion may be delighted, waiting for their turn.
Should you give them some?
Can dogs eat kale chips?
Yes, but in moderation.
Kale offers your dog nutrients such as vitamins A, C, E, B, folate, riboflavin, thiamin, antioxidants, and minerals (iron, phosphorus, potassium).
These are important for your dog’s excellent immunity and energy boost.
Experts have, however, pointed out that kales harbor isothiocyanate and calcium oxalates; compounds that can be toxic to dogs.
This article will give you more insights on kale chips, their nutritional value, and the facts you need to know before feeding them to your dog.
Read on to get a deeper understanding.
Is kale chips safe for my dog to eat?
You can safely give your dog kale chips if you prepare them well.
This means avoiding any seasonings or high amounts of fat, which could be dangerous for your pup.
Kale is a healthy snack for your dog and offers many nutritional benefits, so feel free to share in moderation.
How to prepare the kale chips for your dog
Following the recommended preparation steps is critical in ensuring that your dog gets the best of this vegetable without raising health concerns.
Below is an ideal criterion you can use:
- First, remove the ribs from the vegetables while preparing your dog kale chips. The ribs are the hard, white parts of the kale that run along either side of the leaf. These may be challenging for your pup to digest and metabolize effectively.
- Wash the kale thoroughly in cool water to remove any dirt or pesticides. Rinse the kale several times to make sure it’s clean.
- Dry the kales with a clean towel or paper towels. If the kale is not dry, it will be more difficult to crisp in the oven. You can steam these vegetables for a few minutes (about 10-15 mins) first, then dry them before introducing into the oven. This will soften them, hence more palatability and easier digestion.
- Preheat your oven to 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread out the kale in a single layer on the sheet.
- Bake for 10-15 minutes while tossing the kale in olive oil until crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let cool before serving your dog.
What are the benefits of kale chips for my dog?
Kale chips offer many nutritional benefits for your pup, including vitamins A, C, E, B, folate, riboflavin, thiamin, antioxidants, and minerals (iron, phosphorus, potassium).
- Vitamin A is important for developing good vision, immunity, and reproduction.
- Vitamin C helps protect cells from damage. It’s also involved in producing collagen, which is vital for the health of bones, skin, and blood vessels.
- Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that can help protect cells from damage. It also supports your dog’s skin and coat health.
- B vitamins are significant for energy production, metabolism, and nervous system function.
- Folate is essential for cell growth and the production of DNA.
- Riboflavin is important for energy production and the metabolism of fats & proteins.
- Thiamin is essential for energy production, carbohydrate metabolism, and nerve function.
- Kale chips are also a good source of minerals – iron, phosphorus, and potassium. Iron is utilized to transport oxygen in the blood and grow new cells. Phosphorus is essential for the growth and repair of tissues. Your dog also uses it for energy production.
- Potassium is vital for muscle function, nerve function, and fluid balance.
What are the risks of my dog eating kale chips?
While kale chips offer many nutritional benefits for your pup, there are some risks to be aware of:
- Kale contains compounds called isothiocyanates and calcium oxalates, which can be toxic to dogs in large quantities.
- Isothiocyanates can irritate the dog’s digestive system and cause vomiting and diarrhea. They can also cause difficulty breathing and an increased heart rate.
- Calcium oxalates are compounds that can cause kidney stones and other health problems to your pup.
In general, it’s best to avoid giving your dog kale chips if they have any health conditions that the compounds in kale may aggravate.
These conditions include gastrointestinal issues, kidney problems, and heart conditions.
It’s also important to avoid giving your dog too many kale chips as this will lead to gastrointestinal upsets.
If you’re unsure whether kale chips suit your dog, talk to your veterinarian.
They can help you determine if kale chips are safe for your pup and how much to give.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Can puppies eat kale chips?
Puppies can eat kale chips in moderation.
With their smaller stomachs, puppies can be more sensitive to the compounds in kale that can cause gastrointestinal upsets.
It’s best to talk to your veterinarian before giving your puppy kale chips.
Can pregnant dogs eat kale chips?
Pregnant dogs can eat kale chips in moderation.
The compounds in kale that can cause gastrointestinal upsets can also harm pregnant dogs and their puppies.
It’s best to talk to your veterinarian before giving your pregnant dog kale chips.
They can help you determine if kale chips are safe for your dog.
Can senior dogs eat kale chips?
Senior dogs can eat kale chips in moderation.
These senior dogs may have a more sensitive stomach due to age-related changes.
Give them little kale chips as you monitor their reactions and observe their stool for any changes.
If they have gastrointestinal upsets, discontinue feeding kale chips and talk to your veterinarian.
What is the best way to give my dog kale chips?
The best way to give your dog kale chips is as a treat, not during meal times.
This will enable your dog to concentrate on its regular food during meals and consume the intended balanced diet in their main meals.
Conclusion
Kale chips are a healthy and nutritious treat for your dog.
They’re a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
However, in large quantities, kale chips can also harm your dog.
It’s best to talk to your veterinarian before giving your dog kale chips.
They can help you determine if kale chips are safe for your pup and how to incorporate them into their diet.
Unfortunately, handicapped dogs are much more likely to be ignored when a family is picking out their new pet. Handicapped pets need more care than non-handicapped pets, so it is understandable why they are often harder to rehome.
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