Overview
Yes, dogs can eat taro provided that it is cooked. Taro leaves and corms contain calcium oxalate crystals that could cause extreme pain in dogs. The process of cooking reduces the toxins in the taro roots.
Can dogs eat Taro?
Benefits
- Taro, or Taro root, is rich in potassium, a mineral for regulating body fluid, sending nerve signals, and regulating muscle contractions.
- Taro is loaded with fiber, which helps maintain healthy digestion and prevents gastrointestinal problems like excess gas, constipation, diarrhea, and bloating.
- Taro root has high levels of antioxidants, vitamin A and vitamin C, which strengthen the immune system and protect the cells against damage caused by free radicals.
Risks
- Taro leaves and corms contain insoluble calcium oxalates, which are toxic to dogs. These oxalates have needle-shaped crystals called raphides, which can cause intense pain and inflammation of tissues. Cooking the taro roots can minimize or neutralize the toxins.
Servings
- Cook the taro root by boiling or steaming.
- Once cooked, the flesh is soft and fluffy throughout. Scoop out the soft flesh and serve to your dog in moderation occasionally. The skin should not be given to dogs.
- Avoid also feeding raw taro or taro leaves to dogs.
