Can Dogs Eat Courgette? A Pet Parent’s Guide to Safe Snacking

It’s a sunny afternoon, and you’re slicing up fresh courgette for your salad. Your pup trots over, tail wagging, nose twitching—they want a bite. You pause: is courgette safe for dogs? You’ve heard veggies can be healthy, but not all are (looking at you, onions and garlic). Let’s settle the debate once and for all: Can dogs eat courgette? Spoiler: The answer is yes—but with a few important caveats. Read on to learn why this summer squash might just become your dog’s new favorite treat.

Table of Contents

1. Can Dogs Eat Courgette? The Short Answer
2. Nutritional Benefits of Courgette for Dogs
3. Potential Risks to Watch For
4. How Much Courgette Can Dogs Safely Eat?
5. Healthier Alternatives to Courgette
6. FAQ: Your Courgette Questions Answered
7. Conclusion: Courgette as a Healthy Treat (In Moderation!)
8. References

Can Dogs Eat Courgette? The Short Answer

Yes, dogs can eat courgette—but only when it’s plain, unseasoned, and properly prepared. Courgette (also called zucchini) is a mild, low-calorie vegetable that’s non-toxic to dogs, making it a safe addition to their diet in small amounts.

Veterinarians and pet nutrition experts agree: fresh, raw, or cooked courgette (without salt, butter, garlic, or other seasonings) is a healthy snack for most dogs. It’s packed with vitamins, fiber, and minerals, and its high water content can even help keep your pup hydrated.

But—and this is key—moderation is everything. Courgette should never replace your dog’s balanced, species-appropriate dog food. Think of it as a crunchy, nutrient-dense treat, not a meal.

Nutritional Benefits of Courgette for Dogs

Courgette isn’t just “safe”—it’s nutritious. Let’s break down why this humble squash deserves a spot in your dog’s treat rotation:

1. Rich in Vitamins A, C, and K

• Vitamin A: Supports eye health, immune function, and healthy skin/coat. Dogs need vitamin A for vision (especially night vision) and cell growth.
• Vitamin C: An antioxidant that boosts the immune system, fights inflammation, and helps repair tissue. While dogs produce some vitamin C on their own, extra from food can support aging pups or those with stress/illness.
• Vitamin K: Critical for blood clotting and bone health. A deficiency can lead to excessive bleeding, so vitamin K is a must for injury recovery and overall wellness.

2. High in Fiber

Courgette is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids digestion by promoting regular bowel movements. Fiber can help with:

• Constipation (by adding bulk to stool)
• Diarrhea (by absorbing excess water)
• Weight management (fiber keeps dogs feeling full, reducing overeating).

3. Potassium for Heart and Muscle Health

Potassium is an electrolyte that regulates heart rate, muscle function, and fluid balance. It works with sodium to keep cells functioning properly—important for active dogs or those with heart conditions (always check with your vet first if your dog has health issues).

4. Low in Calories, Fat, and Sugar

At just 17 calories per cup (shredded), courgette is a guilt-free treat for dogs watching their weight. It’s low in fat (0.3g per cup) and sugar (2.4g per cup), making it ideal for overweight pups or those prone to diabetes.

5. Hydrating and Crunchy

Courgette is 95% water, so it’s a great way to sneak extra hydration into your dog’s day—perfect for hot summer months or dogs who don’t drink enough water. Its crisp texture also helps clean teeth by scraping away plaque (hello, natural dental care!).

Potential Risks to Watch For

While courgette is generally safe, there are a few risks to keep in mind:

1. Stomach Upset from Overfeeding

Courgette’s high fiber and water content can cause digestive issues if your dog eats too much. Symptoms like diarrhea, gas, or bloating may occur if they gobble down a large portion. Start small—even a few slices can be enough for tiny dogs!

2. Choking Hazards (for Small Dogs)

Large chunks of raw courgette can pose a choking risk, especially for toy breeds or dogs who “inhale” their food. Always slice courgette into bite-sized pieces (think: matchsticks or small cubes) to prevent choking.

3. Seasonings and Additives Are a No-Go

Never feed your dog courgette that’s been cooked with salt, butter, oil, garlic, onion, or spices. Garlic and onion are toxic to dogs (they damage red blood cells), while salt can lead to sodium ion poisoning (symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, seizures). Even “healthy” seasonings like rosemary or thyme can irritate your dog’s stomach in large amounts.

4. Pesticides (Wash Thoroughly!)

Like all produce, courgette may have pesticide residues. Always wash it thoroughly under running water before feeding it to your dog. For extra safety, opt for organic courgette if possible.

How Much Courgette Can Dogs Safely Eat?

The golden rule: Courgette should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. For most dogs, that’s a tiny portion—here’s a rough guide based on weight:

Pro tip: Start with a tiny amount (e.g., 1 slice for a small dog) and watch for 24 hours. If your dog has no digestive issues (no diarrhea, gas, or vomiting), you can gradually increase the portion (within the limits above).

When to avoid: If your dog has a history of digestive issues (like IBS) or kidney disease, check with your vet first. Courgette’s fiber and potassium content may not be ideal for all pups.

Healthier Alternatives to Courgette

Courgette is great, but it’s not the only veggie your dog can enjoy. Here are a few alternatives with similar (or even better!) nutritional perks:

1. Pumpkin (Canned, Unsweetened)

• Why it’s better: Higher in fiber (4.2g per cup vs. courgette’s 1.1g), making it a go-to for digestive issues (vets often recommend pumpkin for diarrhea or constipation).
• How to serve: 1–2 tbsp (small dogs) to ¼ cup (large dogs) of plain, canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling!).

2. Green Beans (Fresh or Steamed)

• Why it’s better: Lower in sugar than courgette and packed with vitamin C and manganese (supports bone health). Crunchy green beans are also a favorite for weight loss—they’re filling but only 31 calories per cup.
• How to serve: Trim ends, steam lightly (optional), and serve in small pieces.

3. Carrots (Raw or Cooked)

• Why it’s better: Loaded with beta-carotene (converts to vitamin A) and great for dental health—chewing raw carrots scrapes plaque off teeth.
• How to serve: Slice into sticks (raw) or steam (cooked carrots are easier to digest for senior dogs).

4. Broccoli (Steamed, Florets Only)

• Why it’s better: Rich in vitamin K, folate, and antioxidants. Small amounts (1–2 florets for small dogs) can boost immune health.
• How to serve: Steam florets (raw broccoli can cause gas in some dogs) and avoid the stem (tough to digest).

FAQ: Your Courgette Questions Answered

Q: Can puppies eat courgette?

A: Yes! Puppies can enjoy small amounts of plain courgette as a treat, but wait until they’re at least 8 weeks old (weaned and eating solid food). Start with a tiny piece (e.g., ¼ slice for a Chihuahua puppy) to avoid upsetting their sensitive tummies.

Q: Is raw or cooked courgette better for dogs?

A: Both are safe! Raw courgette is crunchier (great for teeth) and has more vitamin C (cooking can reduce some nutrients). Cooked courgette (boiled or steamed, no seasonings) is easier to digest for dogs with sensitive stomachs or dental issues.

Q: Are courgette seeds safe for dogs?

A: Yes! Courgette seeds are small, soft, and non-toxic. You don’t need to remove them—they’re even a source of omega-3 fatty acids (in tiny amounts).

Q: Can dogs eat courgette skin?

A: Absolutely. The skin is where most of the fiber and vitamins live! Just wash it thoroughly to remove pesticides.

Q: What if my dog ate too much courgette?

A: Monitor for diarrhea, vomiting, or bloating. If symptoms are mild, withhold food for 12–24 hours and offer small sips of water. Severe symptoms (e.g., persistent vomiting, lethargy) warrant a call to your vet.

Q: Can dogs eat courgette bread or muffins?

A: No. Courgette bread often contains sugar, salt, nuts (toxic to some dogs), or raisins (highly toxic). Stick to plain, fresh courgette only.

Conclusion: Courgette as a Healthy Treat (In Moderation!)

So, can dogs eat courgette? Yes—and they’ll probably love it! This low-calorie, nutrient-packed squash is a safe, crunchy treat for most dogs, offering vitamins, fiber, and hydration. Just remember:

• Keep it plain (no seasonings, oil, or additives).
• Slice into bite-sized pieces to avoid choking.
• Stick to small portions (10% or less of daily calories).
• Always wash thoroughly and opt for organic if possible.

As with any new food, if your dog has health issues (e.g., kidney disease, diabetes) or you’re unsure, check with your vet first.

At the end of the day, courgette is just one of many healthy treats you can share with your pup. Whether they prefer it raw, steamed, or diced into their kibble, this versatile veggie is a great way to add variety (and nutrition) to their diet.

Happy snacking—for both you and your furry friend!

References

• American Kennel Club (AKC). “Human Foods Dogs Can and Can’t Eat.” akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/human-foods-dogs-can-eat
• PetMD. “Can Dogs Eat Zucchini?” petmd.com/dog/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-zucchini
• ASPCA. “Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants: Zucchini.” aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/zucchini
• Veterinary Nutritionist Dr. Jennifer Coates. “Vegetables for Dogs: Which Are Safe?” pethealthnetwork.com/dog-health/dog-nutrition/vegetables-dogs-which-are-safe