Can dog's eat... Cabbage?

Yes, the good news is, cabbage is safe for dogs to eat in small amounts.

#Is cabbage safe for dogs?

Cabbage does contain a lot of fibre and a fermentable carbohydrate called raffinose. Both can cause gas, bloating and soft poops if your pup eats too much.

Cooking helps break down raffinose and makes cabbage gentler on the stomach, but overcooking can release hydrogen sulfide gas, which gives cabbage that strong, sulphur-like smell and taste.

##Can dogs eat raw cabbage?

Technically, yes, but proceed with caution. Raw cabbage is tough and harder to digest, so it’s more likely to cause gas or discomfort. If your dog’s stomach handles vegetables well, a small amount of finely shredded raw cabbage is fine occasionally. But for most dogs, it’s better to start with cooked cabbage first and see how they react.

##Can dogs eat cooked cabbage?

Yes, cooked cabbage is the safest and most digestible way to feed this veggie. Steaming or lightly
boiling softens the leaves, reduces raffinose, and preserves more nutrients than roasting or longer boiling times. Once cooked, let it cool completely and chop it into small pieces before serving.

Cooked cabbage can be a great, low-calorie addition to your dog’s meal, though if your pup has a sensitive stomach and you want to supplement fibre regularly, a digestive care supplement is a better idea.

##Can dogs eat red cabbage

Yes, and it’s actually the most nutritious variety. Red cabbage is rich in antioxidants called anthocyanins, which give it its vibrant colour. It also contains higher levels of vitamins C and K than green cabbage and mild anti-inflammatory properties, making it a great occasional choice for dogs who tolerate it well.

##Can dogs eat white cabbage?

Yes, white cabbage is also safe for dogs. It’s a bit milder in flavour and slightly less nutrient-dense than red or Savoy cabbage, but it still provides beneficial fibre, vitamin K, and vitamin C.

##Can dogs eat Savoy cabbage?    

Savoy cabbage, with wrinkled, dark green leaves, is another safe option. It’s rich in vitamin A, minerals, and antioxidants, though slightly lower in soluble fibre than red or white cabbage. Its softer leaves also make it easier to digest than standard green cabbage.

##What about other types of cabbage?

All common varieties of cabbage are safe in moderation, but not all cabbage-based dishes are dog-friendly.

• Coleslaw is best avoided, as it often contains onions, garlic, vinegar, and mayonnaise, all of which are harmful or can upset your dog’s stomach.
• Fermented foods like sauerkraut or kimchi can contain probiotics, but also often contain onion, high salt levels, spices, or chilli, which are unsafe for dogs.
• A simple, low-salt soup with cabbage, chicken, carrots, and potatoes (but no onion or garlic) is fine, but it’s a lot of extra prep for an optional addition to a balanced diet.

Looking for digestive care for your pet?

Enter their details to find the best digestive care product for your pet

Get started

#Health benefits of cabbage for dogs

Cabbage is a low-calorie, high-fibre vegetable that supports healthy digestion and a balanced gut microbiome for your dog when fed in moderation. It’s also packed with vitamins and minerals:

• Vitamin C – Helps protect cells from oxidative damage, supports the immune system, and aids collagen production for skin and joints (though dogs can make their own). Read more about the benefits of vitamin C for dogs.
• Fibre – Promotes healthy digestion and supports beneficial gut bacteria. Learn about the benefits of fibre for dogs.
• Vitamin K – Essential for normal blood clotting and bone health.
• Vitamin A – Supports vision, skin, and immune function.
• Antioxidants – Especially in red cabbage, help reduce inflammation and support long-term cellular health.
• Manganese and potassium – Contribute to energy metabolism and healthy muscle function.

Steaming is the best way to preserve most of these nutrients while also making cabbage easier to digest.

#How much cabbage can a dog eat?

As with any new food, start slow to avoid digestive upsets. Offer a tiny square or teaspoon of steamed, cooled cabbage the first time, and watch for any signs of gas, bloating, or soft poops.

If your dog tolerates it well, you can use this as a general guide:

• Small dogs: 1–2 teaspoons
• Medium dogs: 1 tablespoon
• Large dogs: 1–2 tablespoons

Cabbage produces gas in the intestines, not the stomach, so it’s not a direct risk factor for gastric bloat or gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). However, for large, deep-chested breeds like Great Danes or Weimaraners, who are predisposed to bloat, owners may prefer to skip gas-inducing foods like cabbage in favour of other healthy vegetables with fewer digestive side effects.

It’s also worth noting that cabbage contains goitrogens, natural compounds that can interfere with thyroid hormone production. Your pup would need to eat quite a lot regularly for this to be an issue, but if they’ve been diagnosed with a thyroid condition, skip the cabbage altogether as a precaution.

#So, can dogs eat cabbage?

Yes, dogs can safely eat small amounts of cooked cabbage. It’s low in calories, high in fibre, and rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Just be mindful of portion size, as too much can cause gas or digestive discomfort.

If your pup enjoys cooked cabbage without unwanted side effects, they may also like the crunch of a little grated raw cabbage on their food. However, all dogs should skip onion- or seasoning-rich cabbage dishes. And if they turn up their nose, look on the bright side, you can breathe easy without the extra gas in your home!