Can dogs eat Jerusalem artichokes? You may be asking this because you want to spice up your pup’s diet, or maybe your dog had a bite of your food and you want to make sure they’re safe. Humans can eat Jerusalem artichokes, so are they also safe for dogs to eat?
The short answer is yes, Jerusalem artichokes are safe for dogs to eat. Jerusalem artichokes, commonly called sunchokes, are fleshy root vegetables that contain benefits for your pup.
The name “Jerusalem artichoke” is a misnomer; the veggie is native to Central America and is more closely related to potatoes than artichokes.
That said, as with all human food, you must contact your veterinarian before feeding your pup any new dietary additions. Here’s what you should know about feeding Jerusalem artichokes to your dog.
How Are Jerusalem Artichokes Good For Dogs?
Jerusalem artichokes contain copious amounts of both soluble and insoluble fiber, making the veggie wonderful for your pup’s digestion. This root veggie is not high in vitamins but has a moderate amount of minerals like potassium and iron.
The main benefit of this vegetable is its fibrous nature. If your dog has issues with digestion, giving them Jerusalem artichoke may aid in cleaning their digestive tract.
Though Jerusalem artichokes contain very little fat and no cholesterol, they do contain high amounts of calories.
How Can I Safely Give Jerusalem Artichokes To My Dog?
Because Jerusalem artichokes are tougher veggies, they should be eaten cooked. You can boil or roast them for your dog. Your pup will most likely enjoy the taste of this veggie, so be sure to cut them into smaller pieces to minimize the risk of choking.
You should also skip the oil and seasonings, as these are tasty for humans but can upset your dog’s stomach. You can also mash or purée your dog’s Jerusalem artichokes and add the treat to your pup’s normal meal.
Because they are high in caloric content, your pup should eat this veggie in moderation. That is, they should only eat small amounts to prevent weight gain.
If your pup is in a situation where they need to watch their weight, you might opt for another fibrous veggie, like cabbage, that is low in calories.
Has your dog ever eaten Jerusalem artichokes? How do you prepare them for your dog? Leave us a comment below!
