Can Dogs Eat Zucchini?

NOTE: Always check with your veterinarian before giving your dog any new foods, especially “people foods.” What might be OK for one dog might not be good for your dog, depending on multiple factors such as their age, health history, health conditions, and diet. Dogs on prescription diets should not be fed any food or treats outside the diet unless your veterinarian tells you it’s fine to do so. 

Zucchini might not have quite the same allure for your pup as a juicy piece of steak, but some dogs love it. While you’re slicing and dicing this popular summer squash, your pup may be begging for a bite, but can dogs eat zucchini safely? 

The good news is that zucchini can be safe for dogs to eat. And, even better, zucchini has some health benefits for pups. Many pet parents add this dog-safe veggie into their pet’s diet as a fresh food topper or tasty treat. 

Here’s what you need to know about giving your dog zucchini. 

Can Dogs Have Zucchini?

Yes, dogs can have zucchini but be mindful of how you’re preparing it. Plain, fresh zucchini—without added oils, salts, or seasonings—is a healthy, low-calorie treat for dogs.  

Zucchini is also an ingredient in various dog foods and treats, making it easier to incorporate this nutritious vegetable into your dog’s meals. Some options you can try include: 

Avoid, however, fried zucchini and zucchini bread. They contain added ingredients, like salt, spices, sugar, and/or added oils that aren’t always suitable for canine consumption. 

Can Dogs Eat Raw Zucchini?

Dogs can eat both raw and cooked zucchini, but cooked zucchini will be easier for them to digest (and is less likely to cause an upset stomach or diarrhea). Cooking zucchini also helps to break down any harmful bacteria that might be present. 

When cooking zucchini for your dog, avoid additives such as butter or salt. It’s best to cook this veggie completely plain. 

Is Zucchini Good for Dogs?

Zucchini is not only safe for dogs to eat in moderation, but it can also be a healthy, nutrient-rich addition to their diet. Here are some benefits of zucchini for your dog: 

• It’s a low-calorie treat. If your dog needs to shed a few pounds, adding zucchini to their food may be a way to help them feel full without excess calories.  

• It’s high in fiber. The fiber in zucchini can help aid in digestion and keep your dog regular.  

• It’s rich in nutrients. This summer squash contains numerous vitamins, including A, C, and B6, which support vision, immune function, and the nervous system, respectively (to name just a few of their roles). It’s also rich in potassium and magnesium, which help maintain healthy muscles, nerves, and proper hydration. 

• It contains antioxidants. Zucchini is a source of antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which can support long-term health, especially eye and skin health. 

Is Zucchini Bad for Dogs?

But there are a few potential downsides of zucchini, especially if it’s served in large amounts or prepared with added ingredients. Here are some things to watch out for: 

• It can cause stomach upset. Eating too much zucchini at once can lead to gas, bloating, or diarrhea, especially if your dog isn’t used to it. 

• Large chunks can be a choking hazard or lead to intestinal blockage. Large, raw pieces can be tough to chew and may present a risk for choking or intestinal blockage, especially for smaller dogs.  

• Seasonings and oils can be harmful. While cooked zucchini is safe for dogs, fats like oil and butter can cause stomach upset or pancreatitis, and some seasonings (garlic and onions, for example) can even be toxic, so it’s best to avoid them. 

How Much Zucchini Can Dogs Eat?

While zucchini offers plenty of nutritional benefits for dogs, they should only get this vegetable in moderation. All treats combined should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s diet—the rest should come from a well-balanced dog food.  

And start slow—any new food can cause gastrointestinal upset if you serve too much too soon. See how your dog reacts to a small amount of zucchini before giving them a full serving size. 

Below are some general guidelines for how much zucchini is safe for dogs to eat, based on weight. It’s always best to check with your vet before adding any new ingredients to your dog’s diet, especially if they have health conditions or sensitivities.   

How To Safely Feed Zucchini to Dogs

When prepping zucchini for your dog, it’s important to keep things simple to ensure your pup enjoys the treat without any issues. Here are some easy steps to follow: 

• Wash it thoroughly. Rinse the zucchini well under running water to remove dirt, debris, and any pesticides that might be on the skin. 

• Remove the stem. This part can be tough for dogs to digest. 

• Dice it into bite-size pieces. Whether you feed the zucchini raw or cooked, cutting it into smaller pieces can help prevent a potential choking hazard. You can even puree zucchini if your dog has trouble chewing.  

• Cook it lightly. Pet parents with picky eaters may want to steam, boil, or even bake the zucchini to make it more palatable for your furry friend.  

• Serve it plain. Avoid added seasonings or oils, which can be harmful to your dog. 

Once the zucchini is prepped, try: 

• Mixing the veggie into your dog’s regular dog food to add some variety to their diet and boost their fiber intake.  

• Offering it as a treat throughout the day for a healthy alternative to their other snacks.  

• Spreading pureed zucchini onto a lick mat, like the Frisco Silicone Treat Lick Mat, for an entertaining daytime treat. 

What Other Vegetables Can Dogs Eat?

Zucchini isn’t the only vegetable that’s generally considered safe for dogs to eat. However, it’s always best to talk to your vet before introducing new foods to your dog.  

With your vet’s clearance, you can try any of these below: 

• Beans 

• Broccoli 

• Carrots 

• Cauliflower 

• Celery 

• Cucumbers 

• Green beans 

• Lettuce 

• Peas 

• Spinach 

• Sweet potatoes 

• Tomatoes 

Some dog treats that contain these veggies include: