Can Dogs Eat Okra? Is It Safe?

Variety is the spice of life, they say. We expect our lives to be full and rich with choices. And what is good for us is good for our best friends, right? It only seems fair. If your dog lives off of commercial dog food, you might want to liven things up with some variety off of your own plate.

You already know that salty snacks with chemical additives are not safe for your pup. Are all-natural whole foods ok, then? If, for instance, you love okra, and your dog is looking at your plate like maybe you should be sharing. Should you? Is it safe to feed your dog okra?

Is Okra Healthy For Dogs?

Okra is certainly a healthy food to eat.

• Okra is high in protein and fiber.
• Okra contains calcium, folic acid, and magnesium.
• Okra had lots of vitamins A and C.

Altogether, okra is beneficial to eyesight, immune system, strong muscles and bones. It’s great for the healthy development of our nervous system. Okra has properties that stabilize blood sugar and help with diabetes. A dog who eats okra would get the same benefits.

Can Dogs Eat Okra?

Yes, it is safe to feed your dog okra. Both the fruit and the seeds are safe to eat. It is safe to add these little treats to your pup’s diet. Okra will only be beneficial as long as you know when it is ok and when it’s not.

Can my dog eat fried okra? Can my dog eat pickled okra? Is raw okra safe for my dog? Just because it’s okay for your pup to eat a certain food, you must still be careful that it is safely prepared.

5 times It’s Okay To Give Your Dog Okra.

So when exactly is it ok to give your dog okra? What are the safest ways to share this food with your pup?

• In moderation. Dogs don’t eat a lot, compared to what humans consume. In the wild, you are unlikely to see a dog come across an okra plant and strip it all to eat. Human foods are best for your pup when fed in small amounts and for special occasions.
• After you have checked for allergies. Dogs suffer from food allergies just like humans and other animals. The best way to find out is to feed your dog a very small amount and watch for any reaction.
• Raw, as a fun treat, to work teeth and gums. Dogs will sometimes chase after one whole, raw okra as they would a chew toy. The texture of raw okra is a little slimy, but many dogs enjoy it.
• Soft cooked and plain. Dogs don’t need all the seasonings and additives we put in our food and enjoy simple tastes. It’s healthier not to overcook okra because it can lose some of its nutritional value.
• As a flour in other recipes. Okra flour has lots of healthy protein that can give a little boost to a baked treat.

Don’t Feed Your Dog Okra If…

• You notice any digestive issues. Stop at any sign of stomach discomfort. Even if you dog liked okra once, tolerances can change.
• Okra is a known allergen for your dog. If you notice signs of allergy, call your vet and feed you dog gentle foods like rice or oats to ease any discomfort.
• Don’t feed your dog fried okra or okra with any fat mixed in. This is too rich for your dog’s digestion and is full of empty calories.
• Never feed your dog pickled okra. Pickles have sodium, garlic and other additives that will make your dog sick.
• Never feed your dog anything with onion, garlic, chives, or spices. These items are toxic to your pup.

People-foods are a once-in-a-while treat that enriches your dog’s diet with more vitamins and minerals. Okra has lots of healthy stuff that will benefit your pup. If you decide that okra is a good choice for your pet, remember that there are good and bad ways to offer it.