Can Dogs Eat Lettuce? Yes, Well Washed

What it gives your dog

Lettuce is about 95 % water and has about 15 kcal per 100 g. Dark green varieties, such as romaine or little gem, provide some fiber, folic acid, vitamin K and beta-carotene; iceberg, little more than water.

It contains no compounds that are toxic to dogs. What can upset them is salads: dressings with vinegar, salt and oil, and extras such as onion, garlic, olives, croutons or cheese. And a large amount of leaves, because of the fiber, can cause gas or diarrhea.

How to serve it

Well washed, in torn leaves or chopped
Romaine or little gem rather than iceberg
On its own or mixed into their food
Never dressed or from a salad with onion, garlic or croutons

How much can they eat?

Small dog (under 10 kg / 22 lb): 1-2 leaves, torn; medium dog (10-25 kg / 22-55 lb): 2-3 leaves; large dog (over 25 kg / 55 lb): 3-4 leaves.

Risks

Dressed salads or salads with onion, garlic, olives or cheese
Too much: gas and soft stools
Poorly washed leaves: soil residue or bacteria

Frequently asked questions

Can dogs eat salad?

Only if it is plain lettuce with no dressing. The salads we make for ourselves usually contain onion, garlic, salty vinaigrette, olives, tuna in oil, croutons or cheese, and some of those ingredients are not good for them. If you want to share, set aside a few leaves before dressing it. If your dog ate a plate of salad with onion, mention it to your vet.

Can puppies eat lettuce?

Yes, a few small leaves, washed and torn, will not hurt them. It does not offer much nutritionally, so use it as a game or a light treat, not as food. Some puppies happily nibble it and others ignore it completely. If you notice gas or soft stools, reduce the amount or stop.