Microgreens for Dogs

Do you love microgreens and maybe grow them at home? Why should your canine buddy have to miss out on the fun?!

If you’ve ever wanted to add microgreens to your dog’s plate to give them a hit of nutrition and something different to try, you might have wondered whether these tiny veggies are suitable for dogs and, if so, how to incorporate them into your dog’s diet.

Luckily, I’m an expert on all things microgreens, so I’ve done the hard work for you by creating the ultimate guide to microgreens for dogs. Let’s dig in.

Can Dogs Eat Microgreens?

Microgreens are young, edible plants harvested when the plant grows its first true leaves. You may have had them sprinkled on your avocado toast or tacos. They’re delicious, nutritious and add a hit of flavor to any meal.

If you’re wondering whether dogs can eat microgreens, the answer’s yes! Not only can they, but actually, they should. Because microgreens pack in more nutrition than their mature counterparts, you can give your dog the minerals and vitamins they need without having to pile their plates with huge portions of greens. In fact, studies estimate that microgreens contain around 40% more beneficial phytochemicals than their full-grown counterparts.

Microgreens are often rich in vitamins such as vitamin C and vitamin E, both of which are crucial for a healthy dog. Just like we humans consider our nutritional needs when we make food choices, we should consider those for our canine companions, too.

Are There Any Microgreens Dogs Should Avoid?

It’s advisable to steer clear of any vegetables that can be toxic to dogs in their mature form, such as onions, garlic, shallots, chives, and leeks. Other than that, most types of microgreens are well-digested by dogs.

If you’re in any doubt about what’s best for your dog or need advice about changing their diet, talk to your veterinarian about your pooch’s dietary choices.

The Best Microgreens for Dogs

Wondering which of these tiny tasty bites is best for adding to your dog’s diet? Let me break it down for you.

Kale

Have you ever heard of kale being referred to as a superfood?

Well, it pretty much is, and as a microgreen, it’s even better.

Kale microgreens are abundant with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other compounds that seriously benefit your and your dog’s health.

This includes everything from iron, vitamins E and K, to potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Plus, it’s super tasty and versatile, so your pampered pooch will undoubtedly love the extra flavor kick in their meal.

Broccoli

Broccoli is a dog-friendly vegetable that does just as much good for dogs as it does for humans. Like any green, broccoli boasts health benefits, especially in its microgreen form.

By including broccoli microgreens in your dog’s diet, you’ll provide them with a generous dose of calcium, fiber, and vitamin K. Plus, unlike mature broccoli, broccoli microgreens contain less sulfur, so they’re less likely to cause flatulence in your dog.

Broccoli also contains a lesser-known but equally important indirect antioxidant called sulforaphane. Sulforaphane can trigger systems in your dog’s body to allow it to create its own antioxidants, which then fight off free radicals (basically atoms in the body that can cause damage to cells, provoking illness and increased signs of aging).

Keeping free radicals in check reduces your dog’s chance of developing serious diseases such as cancer, making broccoli microgreens a must-add to your dog’s diet.

Mustard

While you shouldn’t feed your pooch the mature mustard plant, mustard in its microgreen form is actually entirely safe for your dog to eat and comes packed full of crucial vitamins and minerals they shouldn’t miss out on.

Do avoid pungent mustards like wasabi, however, as they can cause digestion issues in your canine buddy.

Red cabbage

Red cabbage microgreens can reduce inflammation and support your dog’s overall health by boasting essential nutrients such as antioxidants, beta-carotene, and vitamins A, B, C, and K.

If your dog often encounters health issues, the immunity-boosting powers of red cabbage can help.

Carrot

Carrot microgreens are not only super tasty, but they actually boast a huge number of health benefits for your dog, thanks to high levels of key nutrients.

If you have a particularly fussy dog and want them to happily eat more microgreens, sprinkle them into their meals for an extra bite of nutrition and flavor.

Spinach

The saying ‘eat your greens’ exists for a reason – and it applies to your pooch too. When it comes to dark leafy greens, spinach is one of the most nutrient-rich you can find, packed with vitamins and minerals such as iron that support your dog’s well-being.

Pretty much every disease or health issue you can think of, spinach helps to prevent, and the same goes for your dog’s health too.

Wheatgrass

Safe for your dog in moderate amounts, wheatgrass is one of the best microgreens you can feed your dog to boost its intake of key nutrients. Their mild, grassy flavor will taste perfect sprinkled over one of your dog’s favorite meals, and their health will soon reap the rewards.

Sunflower

Sunflowers don’t just look good in a vase on your windowsill. These micro greens are safe for ingestion by your pooch, and they’re filled with important minerals, vitamins, and nutrients that will contribute to excellent long-term health for your canine buddy.

The best part? They’re super easy to grow and harvest, so you won’t need to give up a ton of time to cultivate them.

Grow Your Own Microgreens for Your Dog

At this point, you should know just how important microgreens are for your dog’s diet. But if you don’t want to have to go to the store every time your dog needs a nutrient hit, consider growing your own microgreens at home.

One of the biggest benefits of microgreens is just how easy they are to grow and harvest since they essentially only need sunlight and water. Plus, most microgreens will be ready to harvest within 7-10 days. Pretty impressive, right?

If you want to make growing your own microgreens easier than ever, take a look at Our Tiny Garden’s Microgreen Grow Kits. Transform your kitchen into a garden for growing these nutrient-rich tiny tasty treats.

Trust me, your dog will thank you for it!