Can dogs eat cabbage?

Caution — small amounts cooked

Cabbage isn't toxic but causes gas and bloating. Small amounts of cooked cabbage are fine for most dogs.

The full picture

Cabbage is safe for dogs but is one of the classic gas-producing vegetables. A small amount of plain cooked cabbage adds fibre, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. Too much causes bloating, flatulence, and loose stools. Raw cabbage is even harder to digest. Red, green, and savoy cabbages are all fine in small amounts; skip sauerkraut and coleslaw (salt, vinegar, mayonnaise, onion). Brussels sprouts and kale are closely related and carry similar cautions.

Risks to watch for

  • Gas and bloating
  • Diarrhoea from large amounts
  • Raw is harder to digest

Potential benefits

  • Vitamin C, K
  • Fibre
  • Antioxidants

Safe portion size

A tablespoon or two of plain cooked cabbage occasionally.

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Safer alternatives

  • Green beans
  • Carrots
  • Courgette

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Related foods

Broccoli caution Brussels sprouts caution Kale caution
Written and reviewed by
The Can My Dog Eat editorial team

Every food page is cross-checked against UK veterinary sources including the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS), the Animal PoisonLine, PDSA, and the Merck Veterinary Manual before publication. We do not accept paid placements from brands. If you spot an inaccuracy, please let us know — we take errors seriously and correct them quickly.

Spot an error? Report it

Checked against UK veterinary guidance — see our editorial standards and source list. If your dog has eaten something and you need urgent advice, call a vet or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000.

Important: This page is general information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different, and individual factors (age, breed, health conditions, medications) can change what's safe. If in doubt, always contact your vet — or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 in the UK.