Turnips are commonly used as winter dishes like stews and soups but can dogs eat turnips? There is a popular misconception amongst dog owners that their canine friends cannot eat or digest foods that are mostly made for humans. Although, there is some truth to it to some extent but not everything is harmful.
Dogs can eat turnips as they are a major source of folic acid, vitamin C and B6, magnesium along with several other important nutrients. Experts are of the view that turnips help improve the metabolic process and nervous system of your dog. However, that depends on the way turnips are offered.
So, read on to find out everything you need to know about feeding turnips to your dog.
Are turnips bad or good for dogs?
Turnips are proven good for dogs as they provide several health benefits. They tend to be a rich source of fiber, vitamin C, folate, fiber, potassium, magnesium, etc. All these nutrients help your dog improve various aspects of health. For instance, the presence of vitamin C helps improve the immune system, which offers quick wound healing.
At the same time, the fiber helps your dog with digestion and promotes bowel movements. Plus, magnesium is known to help and support the nervous system, which keeps your dog calm. And finally, potassium regulates blood pressure, especially if your dog is suffering from a condition, which makes it harder to control it.
When compared to other vegetables, turnips belong to a family that is low in calories but high in fiber. As a result, turnips make up for a great choice if your dog is suffering from weight issues.
What are the effects of turnips on a dog’s health?
Turnips are not known to cause any serious health concerns in dogs. However, dog parents should make sure they offer turnips in moderation as excess of everything is bad. Plus, turnips do not come with any type of toxins either that are proven to be dangerous to dogs.
Therefore, if it is your first time introducing turnips to your dog, you should begin with just a few pieces, depending on the size and breed of your dog. Closely monitor your dog for any symptoms and add a few more if your dog develops a taste for it.
At the same time, make sure that you do not replace turnips with other healthy ingredients. Dogs need a well-balanced diet, which means they should not be offered a single type of meal on a regular basis. Keep in mind that turnips can cause thyroid problems and if your dog already has an underlying condition, you might want to consult your vet first.
Can I give turnips to my dogs?
Turnips can be offered in both raw and cooked form. However, when it comes to offering raw turnips, you should prepare them with care and remove any pesticides or other chemicals that might raise serious health concerns. Moreover, while offering raw turnips to your dog, you can either cut the leaves or wash the turnip thoroughly with water. If you are opting for wash, grab a vegetable brush to remove all the dirt, especially stubborn dirt that can sometimes make it inside vegetables as well.
On the other hand, turnips can also be offered in cooked form. If your dog does not have any dietary restrictions, then this option is going to be a perfect decision, especially if your dog is not fond of eating raw vegetables. You can boil, steam, or fry turnips. If you opt for the boiling method, boil the turnips until they turn soft, and then puree them to serve as a mash. You can also combine it with another vegetable to make it a meal.
And if you plan on frying the turnips, make sure you do not use too much oil. You can also bake them at a low temperature. Regardless of the method you opt for, make sure that you do not overdo it.
Are all types of turnips safe for dogs?
Turnips come in several different types. However, they are not known to cause any serious effects in dogs, which makes them safe to eat. But you need to keep in mind that turnips will only be beneficial as long as they are offered in moderation. Even though the fiber content will help the digestive system but that does not mean you should overdo it.
The best thing about turnips is that you can grow them in your backyard. You don’t necessarily have to buy them from the supermarket. Offering fresh turnips, straight from your backyard will surely make for a great addition to your dog’s diet.
How to feed turnips to a dog?
Feeding turnips to your dog requires a thorough inspection. You cannot simply pick any turnip from the ground and feed it to your dog, you have to make sure it is healthy and free of any soft or crack spots. Furthermore, you should also check for bruises and mold. Turnips should be firm and have smooth skin. This ensures you are offering something healthy and safe to your dog.
How to prepare turnips for your dog?
When it comes to preparing turnips for your dog, the first thing you need to do is wash them thoroughly with water. If there are leaves attached, make sure you cut them off. Plus, inspect each turnip thoroughly for stubborn dirt and use a vegetable brush to remove it.
It might be that your dog does not develop a taste for turnips or it might take a while. Therefore, you can mix turnips with other vegetables or simply opt for other healthier alternatives. Keep in mind that the number of turnips you offer will depend on the size and age of your dog.
If you own a small dog, you can offer ½ cup of chopped, raw turnips per day. For medium-sized dogs, 1 to 2 cups will suffice and for large-sized dogs, 3 cups a day will be sufficient. Remember, consuming too much fiber can also lead to constipation. Therefore, add some other vegetables as well to keep the diet balanced.
FAQs on turnips and dogs!
Which vegetables are poisonous for dogs?
Vegetables and fruits like mushrooms, grapes, nuts, onions, garlic, etc. are known to be toxic to dogs. These food items contain ingredients that can trigger serious health concerns. Therefore, dog owners are suggested to avoid them at all costs as it could sometimes lead to life-threatening situations.
Can dogs eat turnip peelings?
Yes, dogs can eat turnip peelings or skin. However, you should peel them first and offer them in small slices. Some dogs might not be able to chew them properly, which could lead to blockages.
What vegetables can dogs eat everyday?
Dogs can eat sweet potatoes, green beans, peas, and carrots on a regular basis. These vegetables are packed with powerful nutrients and minerals that help improve the nerves, muscles, kidneys, etc.
Conclusion
So, yes dogs can eat turnips as long as they are offered in moderation. You can mix them with other vegetables to come up with healthy meals that will help your dog maintain its overall health. However, if you notice any symptoms, do not panic. Turnips do not usually harm dogs and the least you can expect is diarrhea. But make sure you consult your vet before offering something new so that you are not taking any risks.
