Why
Broccoli is low in fat and high in fiber and vitamin C, but the florets can irritate the stomach and tough stalks can cause a blockage.
How to serve broccoli
- Steam plain florets and cut small.
- Keep it a small part of the day.
Watch out for
- Large amounts can cause stomach upset.
- Avoid big pieces of stalk.
How much broccoli can a dog eat?
Treats of every kind should stay under 10% of a dog's daily calories, says the World Small Animal Veterinary Association. Here is that daily treat budget by size, and how much broccoli it buys if broccoli is the only treat that day. Broccoli has about 35 kcal per 100 g; 1 stalk, medium (7-1/2" - 8" long) (180 g) is about 63 kcal.
| Dog size | Daily treat budget | Max broccoli a day |
|---|---|---|
| Small (10 lb) | 26 kcal | 75 g (half of stalk, medium (7-1/2" - 8" long)) |
| Medium (30 lb) | 59 kcal | 169 g (one stalk, medium (7-1/2" - 8" long)) |
| Large (60 lb) | 100 kcal | 286 g (about one and a half stalk, medium (7-1/2" - 8" long)) |
| Giant (90 lb) | 136 kcal | 389 g (about 2 stalk, medium (7-1/2" - 8" long)) |
Less is better for small, overweight or diabetic dogs. Work out your own dog's numbers with the dog food calculator. Calories: USDA FoodData Central, Broccoli, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt.
Other vegetables: quick answers
| Food | Verdict | Short answer |
|---|---|---|
| Asparagus | Avoid | Not unsafe, but not worth it. Asparagus is tough raw and loses most of its value when cooked soft. |
| Mushrooms | Avoid | Store-bought mushrooms are generally fine, but wild mushrooms can be deadly. |
| Tomatoes | Avoid | Best avoided. Ripe flesh is generally safe, but the green parts of the plant contain a toxin. |
| Brussels sprouts | Small amounts | Yes, a few cooked sprouts. Expect gas. |
| Corn | Small amounts | Yes, off the cob. The cob can cause a dangerous blockage. |
| Peas | Small amounts | Yes, plain green peas in moderation. |
| Potatoes | Small amounts | Yes, plain and fully cooked, as an occasional extra. Never green or raw. |
| Spinach | Small amounts | A little is safe, but spinach is not a top choice for dogs. |
Rules for any new food
- Plain is the rule: no salt, butter, oil, onion, garlic, sugar or sweeteners. Most of the danger in human food comes from what is added to it.
- Keep all treats under 10% of your dog's daily calories (WSAVA). The rest should come from a complete dog food.
- Check labels for xylitol, raisins, chocolate and macadamia nuts, which turn up in baked goods, snacks and spreads.
- If your dog has a health condition, such as diabetes, pancreatitis or kidney disease, ask your vet before adding any new food.
Frequently asked questions
Is broccoli safe for dogs?
Yes, in small amounts. Cooked florets are easiest on the stomach.
How much broccoli can a dog eat?
Treats of any kind should stay under 10% of a dog's daily calories (WSAVA). For a 30 lb dog that is about 59 kcal a day, or roughly 169 g of broccoli if it is the only treat that day.
Sources
- American Kennel Club, "Fruits and Vegetables Dogs Can and Can't Eat" (updated Aug 4, 2026)
- WSAVA Global Nutrition Committee, "Feeding treats to your dog"
- USDA FoodData Central, SR Legacy (April 2018 release)
Checked October 17, 2026. We are a reference, not a vet: if in doubt, call yours. How we check.