Green: safe
Yes, dogs can eat courgette. The ASPCA lists courgette as non-toxic to dogs in its plant database, and the American Kennel Club (AKC) describes it as completely safe.
Why courgette is a good choice
Courgette contains hardly any fat and few calories, while providing fibre, vitamins and minerals. The AKC therefore recommends it as a reward for dogs that need to lose weight. Raw, steamed or boiled are all fine. According to the AKC, the plant’s flowers and leaves are non-toxic too, should your dog nibble in the vegetable patch.
What to keep in mind
- Cut into small pieces: Large pieces can get stuck in the throat. Giving a whole courgette to gnaw on is not a good idea.
- Set some aside before seasoning: Oil, salt and seasonings, as well as onions and garlic, are harmful to dogs. Set aside a few pieces before heating the pan.
- No courgette cake: Baked goods contain fat and sugar, and sometimes xylitol, which is toxic to dogs.
- Soft for seniors: Steamed courgette is easy to eat even with poor teeth.
What if your dog has eaten too much?
A lot of courgette at once can cause gas or soft stools. Waiting, offering water and making the next meal a little smaller is usually enough. If your dog has eaten a seasoned dish with onions or garlic, or a baked product with unknown ingredients, it is better to call your vet.
If you suspect poisoning, contact your vet or an emergency veterinary service immediately.
Our free feeding calculator shows you how much food your dog needs each day and how to account for snacks. You can find more on meal plans and treats in our book “Dog Nutrition and Meal Plans” (book in German), and our free Puppy Starter Pack helps you get ready for a puppy. To give your dog a place on your wall, explore our dog portraits from your own photo or choose an individual portrait.
Further reading
- Is my dog overweight? How to assess body condition and ideal weight
- How to calculate how much food your dog really needs
- Older dog, new rules: how to give your senior their best years
Sources, accessed on 20.10.2026: ASPCA Animal Poison Control, Toxic and Non-Toxic Plants: Zucchini Squash (Cucurbita pepo), Non-Toxic to Dogs; American Kennel Club, Can Dogs Eat Zucchini?; ASPCA, People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets (Onion, Garlic, Chives; Xylitol).
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