Can Dogs Eat Kale?

Kale has gone from a decorative garnish to a trendy “superfood” that’s earned its place in smoothies, health bowls—and even on bumper stickers. But while it may offer numerous benefits to humans, dog owners often wonder: Is kale safe for dogs?

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Understanding the Risks

Search online and you'll find plenty of articles touting the benefits of kale for dogs. However, many of these claims are not backed by veterinary science. The truth is, kale contains naturally occurring compounds that can be harmful to dogs when consumed regularly or in large amounts.

One of those compounds is calcium oxalate, which can contribute to the development of kidney and bladder stones. Dogs with a history of urinary issues or prone to these conditions should avoid kale, along with other high-oxalate foods like spinach, beet greens, Swiss chard, and parsley.

Another concern is isothiocyanates, a compound also found in vegetables like broccoli. While this compound may be beneficial to humans, it can cause gastric irritation in dogs, ranging from mild discomfort to more serious digestive upset. According to Dr. Jerry Klein, AKC's Chief Veterinary Officer, broccoli is safe in limited quantities—less than 10% of a dog’s daily intake. Since kale is in the same family, a similar rule of thumb applies.

Smaller dogs are at higher risk because even modest portions could exceed that threshold. What seems like a small treat to a Labrador might be too much for a toy breed.

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Kale and the Thyroid

Regular consumption of kale may also impact thyroid function, particularly in dogs with hypothyroidism. Feeding kale consistently could interfere with medications or worsen existing conditions. It’s best to speak with your veterinarian before offering kale—or any table scraps—if your dog is on medication or has ongoing health issues.

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What If My Dog Already Ate Kale?

Dogs are opportunistic eaters—if it fell on the floor, chances are they grabbed it. If your pup has snuck a bit of kale, monitor them closely for signs of stomach upset or urinary trouble. Symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, straining to urinate, or changes in bathroom habits could indicate a reaction and warrant a call to your vet.

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Should You Feed Your Dog Kale?

In general, kale is not toxic, but it’s also not a necessary part of a dog’s diet. Most dogs do best with simpler greens like green beans, peas, or cucumbers—vegetables that are easier to digest and pose fewer risks.

So while a little kale here and there likely won’t hurt, it’s best viewed as an occasional snack, not a regular treat.

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