Can Dogs Eat Arugula Raw? Benefits, Risks & Safe Feeding Guidelines

It’s a lazy Sunday morning, and you’re tossing together a vibrant salad—arugula, cherry tomatoes, avocado, a drizzle of olive oil. Your dog, ever the culinary critic, noses your hand, tail thumping against the floor. “What’s that green stuff?” their puppy eyes seem to ask. “Can I have a bite?”

If you’ve found yourself wondering whether raw arugula is safe for your dog, you’re not alone. As pet parents, we’re hyper-vigilant about sharing human foods, and leafy greens often land in the “gray area” between “definitely safe” and “avoid at all costs.”

Spoiler: Arugula isn’t toxic to dogs. In fact, it can even offer some nutritional perks—when fed correctly. But like any treat, moderation is key, and there are a few risks to watch for. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about sharing raw arugula with your furry friend.

Table of Contents

1. Can Dogs Eat Arugula Raw? The Short Answer
2. Nutritional Benefits of Arugula for Dogs
3. Potential Risks of Feeding Arugula to Dogs
4. How Much Arugula Can Dogs Safely Eat?
5. Healthier Alternatives to Arugula (If Needed)
6. FAQ: Your Arugula Questions Answered
7. Conclusion: Arugula as an Occasional Treat

Can Dogs Eat Arugula Raw? The Short Answer

Yes, dogs can eat raw arugula in small, occasional amounts. Unlike toxic foods like grapes, onions, or chocolate, arugula isn’t poisonous to dogs. It’s a low-calorie, nutrient-dense leafy green that can even offer some health benefits when fed responsibly.

That said, “safe” doesn’t mean “unlimited.” Too much arugula can cause digestive upset, and some dogs (like those with kidney issues) may need to avoid it altogether. Let’s break down the details.

Nutritional Benefits of Arugula for Dogs

Arugula (also called “rocket”) is part of the brassica family, which includes kale, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts. While it’s not a “superfood” for dogs, it’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber that can support their overall health—in moderation. Here’s what makes arugula stand out:

1. Low in Calories, High in Fiber

Arugula is 90% water, making it a crunchy, low-calorie snack—perfect for dogs watching their weight. A 1-cup serving (about 20 grams) has just 5 calories, so it won’t derail their diet.

It’s also rich in dietary fiber, which supports healthy digestion by keeping stool regular and feeding beneficial gut bacteria. For dogs prone to constipation, a small amount of arugula may help “keep things moving.”

2. Vitamins A, C, and K

• Vitamin A: Essential for eye health, immune function, and healthy skin/coat. Arugula has beta-carotene (which converts to vitamin A), supporting your dog’s vision and ability to fight off infections.
• Vitamin C: An antioxidant that helps reduce inflammation and boost the immune system. While dogs produce their own vitamin C, extra from food can support aging dogs or those under stress.
• Vitamin K: Critical for blood clotting and bone health. It helps activate proteins that keep bones strong—a plus for growing puppies or senior dogs with arthritis.

3. Folate and Potassium

• Folate (Vitamin B9): Supports cell repair and red blood cell production, which is especially important for pregnant dogs or those recovering from illness.
• Potassium: An electrolyte that regulates heart rhythm, muscle function, and fluid balance. Arugula has about 100 mg of potassium per cup, which helps keep your dog’s heart and muscles working smoothly.

4. Antioxidants

Arugula contains antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. These compounds may support eye health (reducing the risk of age-related vision issues) and overall longevity.

Bottom line: Arugula’s nutrients can complement a balanced dog food diet, but it should never replace their regular meals. Think of it as a “nutrient boost” treat, not a main course.

Potential Risks of Feeding Arugula to Dogs

While arugula is generally safe, there are a few risks to keep in mind—especially if fed in large quantities or to dogs with specific health conditions.

1. Digestive Upset (Gas, Diarrhea, or Bloating)

Arugula contains glucosinolates, sulfur-containing compounds that give brassicas their peppery taste. In small amounts, these are harmless, but large doses can irritate a dog’s digestive tract, leading to gas, bloating, diarrhea, or stomach pain.

This is more common in dogs unused to fiber-rich foods. Start with tiny portions to see how your dog tolerates it!

2. Oxalates: A Concern for Dogs with Kidney Issues

Arugula contains oxalates, naturally occurring compounds that can bind to calcium and form crystals or stones in the kidneys or bladder. While arugula’s oxalate content is moderate (about 20–30 mg per 100g), it’s still a concern for dogs with:

• Kidney disease
• A history of bladder stones (calcium oxalate stones)
• Urinary tract issues

If your dog has kidney problems, skip the arugula and opt for lower-oxalate greens instead (more on that later!).

3. Pesticide Residues

Conventionally grown arugula may harbor pesticide residues, which can be harmful to dogs (and humans!). Pesticides can cause nausea, vomiting, or long-term health issues with repeated exposure.

Fix: Always wash arugula thoroughly before feeding it to your dog. For extra safety, choose organic arugula, which has fewer pesticides.

4. Choking Hazard (for Small Dogs)

Large, whole arugula leaves could pose a choking risk for small breeds (e.g., Chihuahuas, Yorkies) or dogs who gulp food without chewing. To avoid this, tear or chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces before serving.

How Much Arugula Can Dogs Safely Eat?

The golden rule for any treat: It should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. Since arugula is so low in calories, this means you can feed a bit more than, say, a high-calorie treat like cheese—but “a bit more” still isn’t “unlimited.”

Here’s a rough guideline based on your dog’s size:

Key notes:

• Feed arugula occasionally—not daily. Once or twice a week is plenty.
• Always introduce new foods slowly. Start with 1–2 leaves, then wait 24 hours to check for stomach upset (e.g., gas, diarrhea).
• Never replace a balanced dog food with arugula. Dogs need protein, fats, and other nutrients that arugula alone can’t provide.

Healthier Alternatives to Arugula (If Needed)

If your dog doesn’t tolerate arugula, or you want to mix up their treat routine, these greens are often safer or more digestible:

1. Spinach

Lower in oxalates than arugula (about 15 mg per 100g) and rich in iron and vitamins A/C. Great for dogs with kidney issues (in moderation).

2. Green Beans

Cooked or raw, green beans are a fiber-rich, low-calorie snack. They’re crunchy, easy to digest, and loved by most dogs.

3. Carrots

Crunchy, sweet, and packed with vitamin A. Raw carrots clean teeth and massage gums—plus, they’re low in oxalates.

4. Cucumber

96% water, so it’s hydrating and great for hot days. No oxalates, no sugar, just a refreshing crunch.

5. Pumpkin (Cooked, Plain)

High in fiber and beta-carotene, pumpkin soothes upset tummies and helps with both diarrhea and constipation.

FAQ: Your Arugula Questions Answered

Q: My dog ate a whole bowl of arugula—should I panic?

A: Probably not, but monitor them for 24 hours. They may have gas, diarrhea, or an upset stomach, but severe toxicity is unlikely. If they vomit repeatedly or seem lethargic, call your vet.

Q: Is cooked arugula better than raw for dogs?

A: Cooking arugula can reduce oxalate levels and make it easier to digest (good for dogs with sensitive tummies). Just avoid adding salt, oil, or seasonings—plain, steamed arugula is best.

Q: Can puppies eat arugula?

A: Puppies have sensitive digestive systems, so wait until they’re 6+ months old (and on a solid food diet) to introduce arugula. Start with 1 tiny leaf and watch for stomach upset.

Q: Is wild arugula safe for dogs?

A: Wild arugula (often spicier than store-bought) is safe in small amounts, but avoid foraging for it—wild greens may be sprayed with pesticides or mixed with toxic plants (e.g., hemlock). Stick to store-bought or organic.

Q: My dog has bladder stones—can they eat arugula?

A: If your dog has calcium oxalate stones, avoid arugula (and other high-oxalate foods like spinach, beet greens, or almonds). Ask your vet for a low-oxalate diet plan.

Conclusion: Arugula as an Occasional Treat

Raw arugula is a safe, nutrient-dense snack for most dogs—when fed in small, occasional amounts. It’s low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins that support digestion, immunity, and heart health.

Just remember: moderation is key. Too much can cause gas or diarrhea, and dogs with kidney issues should skip it. Always wash arugula thoroughly, chop it for small dogs, and introduce it slowly.

When in doubt, consult your vet—they know your dog’s health history and can help you decide if arugula fits their diet.

At the end of the day, sharing a few arugula leaves with your pup is a fun way to bond (and sneak in extra nutrients!). Just keep those tail wags in mind—and maybe save a leaf for their next begging session.

References

• American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). “Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants.” aspca.org
• PetMD. “Can Dogs Eat Arugula?” petmd.com
• American Kennel Club (AKC). “Human Foods Dogs Can and Can’t Eat.” akc.org
• Veterinary Nutritionist Dr. Jennifer Coates. “Leafy Greens for Dogs: Benefits and Risks.” pethealthnetwork.com