Eggplant: a vegetable that often elicits strong opinions. Some people relish its taste, while others simply can’t stand it. Regardless of where you stand, this versatile veggie holds a firm place in the food chain. It can be enjoyed raw or cooked, adding a delicious touch to casseroles and parmigiana dishes. But have you ever wondered if dogs can eat eggplant?
Key Takeaways
Dogs and Eggplants: What You Need to Know
As a treat, eggplant might not be the best choice for your furry friend. While it’s not necessarily dangerous, most dogs aren’t fond of its taste. However, cooking eggplant can make it more palatable for them. Still, don’t expect eggplant to make it onto their list of favorites.
Can Dogs Enjoy Eggplant With Egg?
Absolutely! Dogs can eat eggplant with egg, and they might even enjoy it. Just make sure the eggs are thoroughly cooked. Raw eggs can expose your pup to harmful bacteria, such as salmonella.
Can Dogs Eat Eggplant Skin?
Absolutely! Dogs can safely eat all parts of an eggplant, except for the stem, which is unpalatable but harmless. So, feel free to include the skin when serving eggplant to your furry friend.
Can Dogs Indulge in Fried Eggplant?
Yes, but only in very small amounts. When frying spongy vegetables like eggplant, a lot of oil ends up in the finished product. Dogs should avoid consuming foods high in processed oils, so it’s better to cook eggplant using alternate methods if you plan to feed it to your dog. If your dog accidentally snags a piece of fried eggplant, they will be fine, but avoid intentionally giving them fried items.
Can Dogs Relish Raw Eggplant?
Indeed, dogs can eat raw eggplant. However, it’s worth noting that many dogs dislike the taste. So, while it’s safe for them to consume, they might not particularly enjoy it.
Creative Ways to Serve Eggplant to Your Dog
If you want to make eggplant more enticing for your furry companion, cooking it is likely the way to go. Baking, frying, and grilling are all perfectly safe methods of preparing eggplant. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can also explore a variety of dog-friendly eggplant treat recipes available online.
Eggplant Jerky
For a unique treat, try making eggplant jerky. It’s safe for dogs and might even tempt your own taste buds! To create this savory snack, you’ll need:
- A dehydrator or oven
- Eggplants
While the recipe is fairly simple, the preparation requires some attention to detail. Follow these steps closely:
- Begin by trimming off the ends of the eggplants.
- Slice the eggplants lengthwise into thin strips, approximately ⅛-¼ inch thick. You can use a mandolin or a knife for this step. Remember, the thicker the slices, the longer the dehydration process will take.
- Using a Dehydrator: Place the eggplant strips directly inside the dehydrator at 135°F (57°C) for 3-4 hours. For a crispier texture, leave the jerky in a bit longer.
Using an Oven: If you don’t have a dehydrator, you can use an oven. Drizzle some olive oil on top of the slices and spread them out on a baking sheet. Bake at 175°F (79°C) for 2-3 hours. Remove them when they reach your desired level of crispiness. - Allow the jerky to cool down before serving it to your dog.
Hopefully, your dog will love this new treat. However, note that it’s best to avoid adding seasoning, like salt, to their treats. Dogs don’t require much sodium, so it’s not recommended. If you need to add a small amount of salt to aid in the dehydration process, make sure it’s significantly less than what you would use for yourself.
Grilled Eggplant
For a simpler approach, you can grill your eggplant. Place the eggplant onto the grill and let it rest for 30-60 minutes over low heat. It will eventually soften and slightly collapse. This is when many people consider it ready to serve to their pooch. Remember to go easy on the seasoning or, even better, avoid it altogether!
The Verdict
As long as the eggplant is prepared in a manner that is not harmful to dogs, they can enjoy a nibble. Eggplant is safe for dogs to eat, but it’s not universally appreciated. Many dogs do not particularly like the taste and texture, so don’t be surprised if your pooch turns up their nose at your offering.
If you’re looking for more enjoyable treats, consider visiting the Ames Farm Center. At The Dog Bakery, they stock only the safest treats, including their homemade baked goodies. You can also find plenty of recipes and helpful tips on their blog. So, drop by and give your furry friend the treat they deserve!
