Can Dogs Eat Parsnips? Health Benefits and Risks

Yes, it is safe for dogs to eat parsnips if you serve the vegetable to them in moderation. Parsnips are root vegetables like sweet potatoes, beets, and turnips. Like these other root veggies, the occasional parsnip makes a healthy food option for your pup because it contains antioxidants, fiber, vitamins, and minerals and is low in carbohydrates.

The parsnip’s robust nutritional profile makes it a healthy treat for dog owners to keep in the refrigerator. Notably, parsnips offer:

1. 1. Vitamins and minerals: Parsnips contain calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which are necessary for healthy bones, teeth, and nervous systems. Parsnips also contain vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, and vitamin B6, as well as folic acid. These nutrients may help boost your furry friend’s immune system, kidney function, and overall health.
2. 2. Antioxidants: Parsnips contain significant levels of antioxidants, which may help fight free radicals that can harm your dog’s health.
3. 3. Dietary fiber: Parsnips are relatively high in fiber, which benefits your dog’s digestive system. Adding the veggie to your dog’s diet can supplement their fiber intake. (Note that most veggies, including brussels sprouts, cabbage, and green beans, are rich sources of fiber.) While fiber may help improve your dog’s blood sugar levels and digestion, parsnips have a high glycemic load, so be mindful of how much you serve your pooch if they have metabolic dysregulation.

Parsnips are a healthy snack to feed your dog, but keep the following precautions in mind when incorporating the root vegetable into their diet.

1. 1. Excessive potassium consumption: Consuming too much potassium can harm your dog, especially if they have kidney disease. Check with your vet if you have questions about your dog’s kidney health.
2. 2. May adversely affect blood sugar: Despite their status as a low-carb food, parsnips have a somewhat high glycemic index (GI). If your pup has metabolic issues, such as diabetes, check with your vet before feeding your dog any parsnips.
3. 3. May cause gastrointestinal distress: If your dog consumes too many parsnips, they may experience stomach upset and gastrointestinal distress. Symptoms include gas, bloating, and diarrhea.
4. 4. Potential choking hazard: Chop up your parsnips before feeding them to your dog. Small dogs, in particular, run the risk of choking on poorly chopped vegetables.

If you’re interested in incorporating this root vegetable into your dog’s diet, here’s how:

1. 1. Start with a small portion. When introducing any new food to your dog, start small and go slow. Remember that additional treats beyond traditional dog food should only take up ten percent of your pup’s overall diet.
2. 2. Prepare the parsnips correctly. When prepping parsnips for your dog, keep it simple. Cut raw parsnips into small pieces and offer them as a low-calorie snack. If feeding your dog parsnip purée or steamed parsnips, skip any flavorings, such as salt, pepper, or oils, as these aren’t good for their digestive systems. Simply steam the veggies until soft and add them to their dog food. You can also serve steamed or puréed parsnips a la carte.
3. 3. Monitor for allergic reactions. After your dog consumes the root vegetable for the first time, monitor them for any adverse reactions. If they exhibit any symptoms, like diarrhea, vomiting, or excessive scratching or licking of the skin, contact a veterinary professional immediately to determine how to address the issue.

Certain human foods and beverages can cause adverse reactions in canines, so always consult your veterinarian to determine whether it is safe to add these items to your pet’s diet. This article is for educational and informational purposes and is not a substitute for medical or dietary advice.

Your dream of having a dog who understands words like “sit,” “stay,” “down,” and—crucially— “no” is just a MasterClass Annual Membership away. The only things you’ll need to train up a well-behaved pup are your laptop, a big bag of treats, and our exclusive instructional videos from superstar animal trainer Brandon McMillan.