Can dogs eat amaranth greens? You may be asking this because you want to give your dog a leafy green treat, or maybe your pup got into the fridge and snacked on amaranth greens. Humans can eat amaranth greens, so are they also safe for dogs to eat?
The short answer is no, dogs can’t safely eat amaranth greens. In fact, every part of the amaranth plant is toxic for dogs.
If your dog has ingested amaranth greens, you should contact your vet immediately. Here’s why amaranth greens are so bad for your dog.
Why Are Amaranth Greens Bad For Dogs?
Amaranth greens, sometimes called pigweed, are toxic for dogs because of oxalates and nitrates that are present in the vegetable. If consumed, oxalates and nitrates can cause kidney failure in dogs.
If you suspect your pup may have eaten amaranth greens, they may present side effects of kidney failure, like difficulty walking, dizziness, or general weakness. They may also present digestive issues like vomiting or diarrhea.
If your dog is exhibiting these symptoms after consuming amaranth greens, it does not necessarily mean they are experiencing kidney failure. Still, they should absolutely be taken to your veterinarian as soon as possible.
Amaranth greens should not be confused with amaranth seeds or grains, which pups can safely eat and are found in some gluten free dog foods.
If you are looking for a leafy veggie to give your doggo, try spinach or arugula instead. Both of these greens are chock full of benefits for your dog’s health and are even used in some dog foods.
What Should I Do If My Dog Ate Amaranth Greens?
If your dog ate amaranth greens, you should call your vet immediately. As with all foods that are toxic to dogs, some pups may have more severe reactions than others.
Depending on your doggo’s individual reaction, your vet may recommend that they come in to be evaluated if they are displaying more worrying symptoms. If they are not showing any symptoms, your vet may ask that you keep an eye out for any side effects or odd behavior.
Because our furry friends’ stomachs are not keen on a lot of human foods, there is never a bad time to brush up on preventative measures for keeping your dog safe from possible poisoning. We compiled a handy list of the Top 10 Poison Prevention Tips For Dogs to make this easier.
Has your dog ever accidentally eaten amaranth greens? Do you have any other suggestions for leafy green snacks for dogs? Leave a comment below!
