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A winter dinner table often looks harmless enough, but one surprisingly risky vegetable could catch dog owners off guard this festive season. According to Vet Nurse Leah Callaghan from Butternut Box, a UK based fresh dog food company, vegetables like raw potatoes, which sit in almost every kitchen and often within a dog’s reach, can be toxic for pets. While many people know that plain, cooked potatoes are generally safe for dogs in small amounts, fewer realise that if your dog grabs a piece of the raw version, it will be an entirely different story.
Raw, green, or sprouting potatoes contain solanine, a toxic compound, meaning that it should never be given to dogs even in small quantities. Callaghan adds that several other festive favourites frequently used in Christmas cooking should also be kept off dogs’ plates. Ingredients such as onions, garlic, chives, and leeks, all members of the allium family, can damage a dog’s red blood cells and lead to serious illness, even when cooked or finely powdered. She also cautions owners to be mindful when offering cauliflower. She also cautions owners to be mindful when offering cauliflower.
Leah Callaghan, Vet Nurse at Butternut Box said: “While many vegetables make healthy snacks for dogs, some should be avoided entirely because they can be toxic or hard to digest.
“Onions, garlic, chives, and leeks, all members of the allium family, can damage a dog’s red blood cells and lead to anaemia, vomiting, or weakness, whether they are raw, cooked, or powdered. Rhubarb leaves contain oxalates that can harm the kidneys, and even the stems can be risky in large amounts.
“Raw potatoes, especially if green or sprouted, contain solanine, a toxic compound, so they should never be fed, although plain cooked potatoes are generally safe in moderation. Tomato leaves and stems also carry solanine, making them dangerous, though small amounts of ripe tomato fruit are usually fine for most dogs.
“Wild mushrooms pose a serious threat — just a tiny bite can trigger vomiting, liver damage, or neurological issues. When in doubt, it’s always safer to skip the questionable vegetables and stick with tried-and-true, dog-friendly options.”
Although it is safe for dogs and can be a healthy snack in moderation, its status as a cruciferous vegetable makes it harder for some dogs to digest, especially when raw.
Cauliflower contains natural compounds that can create significant gas during digestion, meaning even a small taste can lead to bloating or some unexpectedly audible side effects.
For this reason, Callaghan recommends offering only small portions and avoiding butter, cheese, oil, or any festive seasonings that could further upset a dog’s stomach.
She added: “Generally, cauliflower is safe for dogs and can be a healthy snack in moderation. It’s full of antioxidants, vitamin C, and fibre, all of which support overall wellness. However, because it’s a cruciferous vegetable, it can be gassy, and some dogs may find it harder to digest raw. Always offer cauliflower in small portions and avoid adding butter, cheese, or seasonings, which can upset a dog’s stomach.”
To prepare the cauliflower adequately she recommends lightly steaming or boiling it until it’s tender to make it easier to digest and then break it into small florets suited to your dog’s size, and offer the vegetable just a few pieces at a time. The expert advised that raw cauliflower is safe but in tiny amounts and she emphasised that moderation is key to prevent any digestive problems.
“When introducing cauliflower, watch for signs of bloating, gas, or soft stools. Cauliflower isn’t best suited for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those prone to flatulence. Start with a tiny floret or a small mash, and see how your dog reacts.
“If they handle it well, it can be a fun, crunchy treat during the holidays. But remember, cauliflower is a special occasion snack, not a daily staple; its unique compounds make it one of those vegetables that can delight in small doses but misbehave if overindulged. If you notice any change in your dog’s behaviour or digestion, it’s better to avoid it altogether.”
Be sure to avoid spices, butter, or oil when preparing your pet’s food in order to keep them safe.
