Dogster is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn a commission at no cost to you. Learn more.

Dog Nutrition

Can Dogs Eat Bok Choy? Vet-Verified Health Facts & FAQ

Genevieve Dugal
By Genevieve Dugal · Reviewed & fact-checked by Dr. Amanda CharlesVet Approved
Dr. Amanda Charles
Reviewed & Fact-Checked byDr. Amanda CharlesBVSc MRCVS (Veterinarian)
Dr. Amanda Charles, a 2002 graduate from Liverpool University, has built a prolific career in small animal medicine. She is passionate about providing pet owners with reliable and current information, enjoying the varied aspects of veterinary work. Outside the clinic, Amanda's life is filled with the energy of her two young sons, her spirited Cocker Spaniel, along with a spunky Ragdoll cat.View authorThe information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research. Learn more
Updated on June 17, 2026
Share
Can Dogs Eat Bok Choy? Vet-Verified Health Facts & FAQ

Most dogs love it when you offer them something different from their usual diet, and what could be better than healthy treats like veggies? But certain seemingly harmless vegetables can pose health risks to your beloved dog. For example, dogs can safely eat small amounts of bok choy, but you do need to take a few precautions if you decide to give this vegetable to your dog.

Let's take a closer look at the benefits and risks of bok choy for dogs, along with a few tips for incorporating treats into your furry friend's diet.

divider dog paws 3 oct 2024

What Are the Health Benefits of Bok Choy?

Image Credit: laker, Pexels

Bok choy, a cruciferous vegetable from the Brassica family, has a host of health benefits for humans which our four-legged friends may benefit from too.

  • Bok choy is loaded with vitamins and minerals. Rich in vitamins C and K, it helps support the immune system and blood health.
  • It also contains vitamins A and B9 (folic acid), calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, manganese, and phosphorus.
  • It is packed with antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that can help protect cells against free radicals. Free radicals may play a part in the development of heart disease, cancer and other diseases.
  • This cruciferous vegetable is high in dietary fiber and low in calories: 1 cup of raw bok choy contains only 9 calories, making it an ideal treat for dogs that tend to gain weight easily.

What Are the Cons of Bok Choy for Dogs?

  • May cause gas. Bok choy is a variety of cabbage that is in the same category as kale, Brussels sprouts, and broccoli. Some dogs may have difficulty digesting these high-fiber foods which can cause bloating and gas.
  • May present a choking hazard. Bok choy has long, fibrous leaves that some dogs can choke on, especially small pups and those that tend to gulp down their food.

Even if your pup doesn't seem to have any digestive issues after ingesting bok choy, don't make it a regular part of their diet. Keep in mind that treats (even nutritious ones) should make up no more than 10% of your dog's daily food intake.

Shortcoder: \"pangovet-dog-ate-or-drank-something\"

"}" data-sheets-userformat="{"2":513,"3":{"1":0},"12":0}">

If you need to speak with a vet but can't get to one, head over to PangoVet. It's our online service where you can talk to a vet online and get the advice you need for your pet — all at an affordable price!

PangoVet_Mention-in-Content Savings V1


How to Give Bok Choy to Your Dog

Image Credit: yuchinutrition, Pixabay

Be sure to follow basic precautions if you choose to feed bok choy to your pup:

  • Wash it thoroughly to remove any chemical or pesticide residue.
  • If it’s raw, cut it into small pieces to avoid a choking hazard.
  • You can cook bok choy before giving it to your dog, but avoid adding seasonings. Certain seasonings, like onion and garlic, are toxic to dogs.

Tips for Incorporating Treats Into Your Dog's Diet

Treats can be great training tools because they help create a positive association in your pet's mind. You can also offer treats for the sole purpose of pleasing your dog, provided that you follow a few precautions:

  • Do not give them table scraps.
  • Choose treats specifically for dogs, such as chew bones, strips, or sticks rich in vitamins and minerals.
  • When in doubt, check the ASPCA's list of toxic dog foods.
  • Ask your veterinarian for advice if your dog has special nutritional needs.

One of the main reasons to incorporate treats into your dog's diet is to increase the chance that a specific behavior will occur. But you can also give your pet yummy food outside of training, as long as you don't overdo it.

divider dog faces oct 2024

Summary

So can dogs have bok choy? Bok choy is a delicious, low-calorie veggie that is rich in nutrients and antioxidants. But this cruciferous vegetable is also fibrous, which can sometimes upset a dog's tummy and cause bloating and flatulence. So, if your dog is sensitive to high-fiber foods, it's best to skip the bok choy and choose another, easier-to-digest option.

See Also:

Sources

Want content like this delivered to you?

News, insights, expert advice, and everything dog

Genevieve Dugal
Authored by

Genevieve Dugal

How Long Does It Take for a Dog to Digest Food? Vet-Approved Digestive System Basics

How Long Does It Take for a Dog to Digest Food? Vet-Approved Digestive System Basics

We all know that what we feed our dogs—and how they digest it—plays a key role in their overall health. If you’re wondering how long it takes for a dog to dige…

Kit Copson
By Kit Copson · 5 years ago
Can Dogs Have Cinnamon? Vet-Approved Facts & FAQ

Can Dogs Have Cinnamon? Vet-Approved Facts & FAQ

We have to be very careful as pet owners when it comes to our spice cabinets. Some are perfectly harmless to pets while others can cause reactions, or even tox…

Ashley Bates
By Ashley Bates · 5 years ago
What Vegetables Can Dogs Eat? 14 Vet-Approved Healthy Options

What Vegetables Can Dogs Eat? 14 Vet-Approved Healthy Options

As dog owners, we have our dog's best interests at heart and want to keep them safe. One of the biggest risks to their health is what they put into their bodie…

Keri-Beth Clur
By Keri-Beth Clur · 5 years ago
Probiotics for Dogs: Vet-Reviewed Benefits, Risks & Considerations

Probiotics for Dogs: Vet-Reviewed Benefits, Risks & Considerations

You probably know that probiotics are good for your gut health and may have seen them advertised on yogurt. As a dog owner, however, did you know that probioti…

Codee Chessher
By Codee Chessher · 7 years ago
The Dogster Magazine is Officially Back!
June 19, 2026

The Dogster Magazine relaunch is officially underway with a fresh new look and an all-new digital experience. We're thrilled to reintroduce the Dogster communi…

Dogster Team
By Dogster Team
The Organization Helping Pets Feel Safer, Happier, and ‘Fear Free’ - Heroes of the Pet World
June 17, 2026

For many pet owners, stress during veterinary visits, grooming appointments, travel, or even routine handling can feel like an unavoidable part of life with an…

Nicole Cosgrove
By Nicole Cosgrove
Major Win for Dogs: Ontario Becomes the Final Province to Ban Ear Cropping and Debarking
June 17, 2026

​​Ontario has approved new animal welfare regulations that will prohibit elective ear cropping and devocalization (debarking) procedures in dogs from January 1…

Dr. Paola Cuevas
By Dr. Paola Cuevas
Dogster’s Weekly Photo Contest Winners: Most Adorable Puppy (June 8, 2026)
June 17, 2026

Every week our team gets the privilege of sorting through our readers photos to choose what dogs will win this weeks contest! See all the winners here

Radim Chudej
By Radim Chudej

Love Dogs? So Do We! Join the Dogster Community

Stay informed with expert pet care insights delivered straight to your inbox! Discover professional guidance on animal behavior, feeding tips, trusted product picks, and much more.

You may opt-out at any time. View our Privacy Policy for more information.

The Dogster app on a phone