Can dogs eat Cardoons?

Overview

Can dogs eat cardoons? Yes, cardoons can be eaten by dogs, but they might find these vegetables unappealing. Cardoons are bitter-tasting, but parboiling them will remove the nasty taste. Beware of their prickly leaves and stalks, which can irritate the skin and mouth of dogs.

Benefits

Cardoons are packed with vitamin B complex and vitamin C, which help boost a dog's immune system.
Cardoons are a rich source of minerals for dogs, including sodium, magnesium, potassium, and iron, promoting healthy muscle, nerve, and blood vessel function.

Risks

Cardoon plants have prickly leaves, stalks, and flower heads which can cause skin and mouth irritation to dogs.
It has a bitter taste and might not be palatable to dogs.
Cardoon has no toxic effects reported on dogs; however, there are no direct studies that have been done on the suitability of feeding cardoons to dogs.

Servings

The young leaves and immature cardoon flower stalks can be eaten raw or cooked by a dog.
Par-boil the stalks to remove some of the bitterness. Cut into bite-sized pieces and serve to your dog in moderation.