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By Judyvein Cheng, CPCN, BRNC
Certified pet nutritionist in Singapore
QUICK ANSWER
Yes, dogs can eat spinach in moderation. It's packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. The real question is how much. Choose organic, gently steam or cook it, then purée it, start small, and be careful if your dog has bladder, kidney or thyroid issues.
Can dogs eat spinach?
Yes, in moderation. Spinach is low in calories and high in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and insoluble fibre, which supports digestion. Introduce it slowly, so your dog's digestive system can adjust.
How much spinach?
As a general guide, vegetables can make up about 10–15% of your dog's daily diet, and spinach can be part of that mix. Ideally, don't feed spinach alone. Rotate it with other vegetables. Every dog is different, and spinach upsets some dogs' stomachs. Start with a small amount mixed into a meal, watch for any tummy trouble, and increase slowly if all is well.
The benefits of spinach
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamins A, C and K, plus iron and calcium, support overall health, immunity, and strong bones and teeth.
Antioxidants
Lutein and zeaxanthin support eye health and protect cells from free radical damage. Quercetin is known as "nature's Benadryl". Nitrates support heart health, and kaempferol may help lower cancer risk.
Fibre
Supports digestion and regular bowel movements.
Hydration and fullness
Spinach is high in water, which helps with hydration, and it's filling, which can help with weight management.
Things to watch out for
✓ Pesticides: spinach is on the Environmental Working Group's "Dirty Dozen" list of produce with the most pesticide residue. Buy organic whenever possible.
✓ Oxalates: spinach is high in oxalates, which can interfere with calcium absorption and, rarely, contribute to bladder or kidney stones. Steaming or cooking spinach lowers its oxalates, so they're not a big concern when it's cooked, fed in small amounts and rotated with other vegetables. In that case, the benefits outweigh the risks. But if your dog has kidney stones, or gets them easily, it's best to lower their spinach intake. If your dog has urinary or kidney issues, check with a holistic vet. Read more in UTIs in dogs and cats.
✓ Seasonings: skip cream sauces and spices. A little olive oil or pastured butter is fine. Garlic can be beneficial, but only at the right dose and for the right dog. See garlic for dogs.
✓ Sensitivities: stop feeding spinach if you notice tummy upset, itchiness or behaviour changes.
✓ Thyroid: spinach contains goitrogens, which may lower thyroid function. Veterinarian Dr Jean Dodds says the benefits outweigh the risks, and light steaming reduces goitrogens. If your dog has hypothyroidism, serve spinach cooked, along with other goitrogenic vegetables such as cauliflower, cabbage, kale, Brussels sprouts and bok choy. Read more in coconut oil and thyroid health.
FROM MY EXPERIENCE
I don't limit spinach for BeanBean, because her vegetables are always on rotation, with a mix of 4–5 vegetables at a time. Given in small amounts and rotated like this, spinach is one of many vegetables she benefits from.
How to prepare spinach
Gently steam or cook it: steam or lightly cook spinach until wilted. This makes it easier to digest, lowers its oxalates and goitrogens, and keeps much of its nutritional value. I don't recommend feeding spinach raw.
Then purée it to a baby-food consistency, so your dog can absorb the nutrients.
Frozen spinach: a convenient option. Thaw it and squeeze out the excess water first. Choose organic.
Dogs can't break down the tough cell walls of vegetables on their own, so puréeing helps them get the nutrients out. If your dog is a picky eater, try mixing it into food or treats. And if your dog simply won't eat spinach, there are plenty of other vegetables to try.
Frequently asked questions
Can cats eat spinach?
A tiny amount is fine for most cats, but avoid it for cats with a history of urinary crystals or kidney issues, because of the oxalates.
Is canned spinach OK?
Plain frozen spinach is better, as canned spinach often has added salt.
This article is for educational purposes and isn't a substitute for veterinary care. If you're concerned about your pet's health, please seek professional advice.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Judyvein Cheng, CPCN, BRNC
Judyvein is a Certified Professional Canine Nutritionist and Certified Raw Nutrition Coach for Cats & Dogs, and the founder of JOOF Holistic Pet. Her journey began with her Frenchie, Wangcai, and today she helps pet parents in Singapore take a root-cause approach to their pets' health.
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