Can Dogs Eat Eggplant? Safe or Not

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Can Dogs Eat Eggplant

Eggplant — or aubergine if you’re feeling fancy — is one of those veggies that pops up everywhere. It’s in pastas, roasted veggie trays, and even creamy dips like baba ganoush. But if your dog is giving you the “puppy eyes” while you’re cooking, you might wonder: Can dogs eat eggplant?

According to Dr. Jerry Klein, the Chief Veterinary Officer over at the American Kennel Club (AKC), some veggies are totally fine for pups, while others… not so much. Eggplant falls somewhere in the middle — safe in moderation, but only if you prepare it the right way (AKC’s guide on safe vegetables).

In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about feeding your dog eggplant — from portion sizes to whether it’s better cooked or raw, plus a simple dog-friendly recipe at the end.

Can My Dog Eat Eggplant

Yup, dogs can have eggplant — but don’t go tossing them a whole one just yet. Eggplant is low in calories and packed with antioxidants like nasunin, which sounds fancy but basically helps keep cells healthy.

Here’s the catch: eggplant is part of the nightshade family (think tomatoes and peppers), which means it has a little something called solanine. Too much solanine isn’t good for dogs.

Dr. Jennifer Coates says to keep an eye out for signs like itchy skin, tummy troubles, or general grumpiness after your dog eats eggplant. Always start small and see how your dog reacts before making it a regular thing.

Can Dogs Eat Eggplant Everyday

Feeding your dog eggplant every single day? Not a great idea. Even though it’s healthy, too much of it can upset your dog’s stomach. It’s more of a once-in-a-while treat.

How often you serve it depends on your dog’s size and weight:

Small Dogs (under 20 lbs): 1–2 tiny cubes, once or twice a week
Medium Dogs (20–50 lbs): 3–4 cubes, maybe two times a week
Large Dogs (over 50 lbs): 5–6 cubes, two or three times a week

Dr. Klein also points out that treats — including veggies — shouldn’t make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories. Mixing eggplant with other safe veggies like zucchini or squash keeps things balanced and interesting.

Is Eggplant Good for a Dog’s Digestion?

Eggplant has fiber, which is great for keeping your dog’s digestive system on track. A little fiber helps everything… move along smoothly, if you know what I mean.

But here’s the thing — too much fiber can backfire. It might cause bloating, gas, or even diarrhea. Yikes.

To avoid tummy trouble, introduce eggplant slowly. Pair it with simple foods like boiled chicken or plain rice to make it easier on their stomach.

There’s even a study in The Journal of Animal Physiology and Animal Nutrition showing that fiber-rich veggies can help improve stool quality and nutrient absorption when fed in moderation.

Can Diabetic Dogs Eat Eggplant

For dogs with diabetes, eggplant can actually be a good snack. It’s low in carbs and doesn’t cause big spikes in blood sugar, which is super important for diabetic pups.

Dr. Sarah Wooten from PetMD recommends keeping it plain and simple — no oils, butter, or cheese. Those extras can add unnecessary fat and calories that diabetic dogs don’t need.

As always, check with your vet before adding anything new to your diabetic dog’s menu, just to be safe.

Can Dogs Eat Eggplant Raw or Cooked

Cooked is the way to go. Raw eggplant can be tough to chew and has a bit more solanine, which might upset your dog’s stomach.

Best Ways to Cook Eggplant:

Steaming: Keeps most of the nutrients and makes it soft
Baking: Brings out the natural sweetness (no oil or spices, though!)
Boiling: Super easy, but some nutrients might escape into the water

Skip frying or seasoning with things like garlic or salt — those can be harmful to dogs.

Can Dogs Eat Eggplant Seeds?

Eggplant seeds aren’t a huge deal in small amounts, but they do have trace amounts of solanine. If your dog has a sensitive stomach or health issues, it’s better to scoop them out before cooking. Better safe than sorry!

Can Dogs Eat Eggplant With Other Foods

Eggplant plays well with other dog-safe veggies and proteins. Here’s a quick list:

Egg: ✅ Great protein boost — just cook it plain.
Zucchini: ✅ Light and easy to digest.
Tomatoes: ⚠ Only ripe red ones and in moderation. Avoid stems and leaves.
Okra: ✅ Full of fiber and antioxidants.
Squash: ✅ Awesome for digestion.
Parmesan: ⚠ Tiny sprinkle at most. Many dogs don’t handle dairy well.

Mixing different veggies keeps your dog’s meals fun and flavorful. Just introduce new foods slowly and watch for allergies.

Can Dogs Eat Eggplant Skin

The skin has some good stuff like antioxidants, but it’s also kind of tough and chewy.

For small dogs or pups with dental problems, it’s best to peel the eggplant before cooking. Bigger dogs can handle some skin as long as it’s well-cooked and soft.

Can Dogs Eat Eggplant Leaves

Nope, absolutely not. Eggplant leaves are a big no-go. They have a high amount of solanine, which can be toxic.

If your dog sneaks a bite, watch for vomiting, tremors, or any signs of illness. If that happens, call your vet right away. You can also reach out to the Pet Poison Helpline (petpoisonhelpline.com) for quick advice.

Can Small Dogs Eat Eggplant

Small dogs have more sensitive stomachs, so you’ll want to be extra careful.

Start with a piece no bigger than a blueberry, just once a week. If your pup seems fine — no itching, no diarrhea, no weird behavior — you can keep it as an occasional treat. If not, skip it completely.

Can Shih Tzu Dogs Eat Eggplant

Shih Tzus are extra sensitive when it comes to food, and they can have allergies. They can eat eggplant, but only if it’s peeled, cooked, and plain — no butter, oil, or seasoning.

Dr. Coates suggests mixing it with lean protein like boiled chicken or turkey for a balanced little meal.

Recipe for Dogs Eat Eggplant

Here’s a quick and easy recipe that’s perfect for sharing with your dog (well, their portion at least — yours probably needs salt and spices!).

Dog-Friendly Eggplant & Chicken Mash

Ingredients:

✅ ½ cup peeled, cooked eggplant (steamed or baked)
✅ ½ cup boiled chicken breast, shredded
✅ ¼ cup cooked white rice
✅ 1 teaspoon plain pumpkin puree (optional but great for digestion)

Instructions:

Peel and cube the eggplant, then steam until soft.
Boil chicken and shred it into small pieces.
Mix everything together and let it cool completely.
Serve in small portions.

Serving Sizes:

Small dogs: 2 tablespoons
Medium dogs: ¼ cup
Large dogs: ½ cup

Pop leftovers in the fridge, and they’ll keep for about two days.

Conclusion

Eggplant can be a tasty, low-calorie treat for dogs — as long as you serve it right. Keep it cooked, plain, and in small portions. Avoid leaves and heavy seasonings, and always introduce it slowly to make sure your dog tolerates it well.

As Dr. Klein from the AKC says, “Every dog is different. What’s safe for one may not be safe for another.” With a little care, eggplant can be a fun way to add variety to your pup’s menu without upsetting their tummy