Can Dogs Eat Eggplant? Yes! Here’s How To Get Your Dog To Eat It
Rocky Kanaka
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Eggplant: it’s one of those love-it-or-hate-it kinds of things.
Some people absolutely love the taste, and others simply can’t stand it. Regardless of which side of the fence you’re on, it’s a fascinating veggie, and it has a firm place in the food chain. It can be eaten raw or cooked, and it makes a delicious addition to casseroles and parm.
But, have you ever wondered: can dogs eat eggplant?
Dogs and Eggplants: The FAQ
As a treat, eggplant may not be the best pick. It’s not necessarily dangerous, but dogs aren’t usually keen on the taste. Cooking eggplants before serving will make them more palatable, but few dogs are going to put eggplant on their list of favorites.
Can Dogs Eat Eggplant With Egg?
Yes! Dogs can eat eggplant with egg, and they may enjoy it.
If you opt to serve your eggplant with some eggs, be sure to cook the eggs thoroughly. A raw egg may expose your pup to harmful bacteria and germs such as salmonella.
Can Dogs Eat Eggplant Skin?
Yes! Dogs can eat eggplant skin. Aside from the stem, — which is unpalatable but not necessarily harmful — dogs can safely eat any part of an eggplant.
Can Dogs Eat Fried Eggplant?
Yes, but only a very small amount. When frying spongy vegetables like eggplant, a lot of the oil ends up in the finished product. Dogs should very rarely eat foods high in processed oils, so it’s better to cook eggplant in another way if you want to feed it to your dog.
If your dog snags a piece of fried eggplant they will be fine, but avoid giving them fried items deliberately.
Can Dogs Eat Raw Eggplant?
Yes! Dogs can eat raw eggplant, but many dogs dislike the taste.
How Can I Give My Dog Eggplant?
To make eggplant more enticing to your dog, you’ll likely have to cook it. Baking, frying, and grilling are all perfectly safe ways to prepare eggplant for your pup’s plate. However, if you want to serve up something fancier, there are plenty of recipes out there for dog-friendly eggplant treats.
Eggplant Jerky Recipe
If you’re looking for something unique, try out this recipe for eggplant jerky. It’s safe for dogs, and you might even enjoy it, too!
To make eggplant jerky, you’ll need:
- A dehydrator or oven
- Eggplants
This is a fairly simple recipe, but the prep work is a bit complicated. Follow along closely!
- Take your whole eggplants and trim off the ends.
- Cutting lengthwise, slice the eggplants into thin strips. A thickness of ⅛–¼ an inch is perfect. You can do this with either a mandolin or a knife. The thicker you slice it, the longer the eggplant takes to dehydrate.
Using a Dehydrator: If you have a dehydrator, the strips may be added directly inside for 3–4 hours at 135°F (57°C). For a crisper texture, leave the jerky in a little longer.
Using an Oven: If you don’t have a dehydrator handy, then an oven will work! After drizzling some olive oil on top and spread the slices out on a baking sheet. Bake them for 2–3 hours at 175°F (79°C). Once they’re crispy enough for you, remove them from the oven.
- Allow the jerky to cool down before serving it to your dog.
Hopefully, your dog will love this new treat. If not, you’re in for some delicious eggplant jerky!
While you can add seasoning (like a small amount of salt), it’s not recommended. Sodium isn’t something your dog needs very much of, so adding it to their treats isn’t a good idea. If you want to add a small amount of salt to help the dehydration process it will be totally fine, but remember that it should be way less than you would use for yourself.
Grilled Eggplant
If you want to take a simpler approach, then you can always grill your eggplant. To do this, set the eggplant onto your grill and allow it to rest for 30–60 minutes on low heat. It will eventually “collapse”. This is when many people would deem it to be ready, and it is ready to serve to your pooch.
Again, go light on the seasoning, or better yet, no seasoning at all!
What’s the Verdict?
As long as the eggplant is not prepared in something that is harmful to dogs, pups are welcome to try a bite! Eggplant is safe for dogs to eat, but it’s a bit of an acquired taste. Many dogs do not particularly like the taste and texture, so don’t be surprised if your pooch turns their nose up at your offering.
