Can Dogs Eat Kale?

Yes. Dogs can eat kale in small amounts. It contains vitamins, antioxidants and fibre that may support overall health. Kale should only be fed occasionally because large amounts may cause digestive upset or contribute to health issues in some dogs.

Last updated:

March 19, 2026

Can Dogs Eat Kale?

Key information

The table below highlights the key nutrients found in this food and how they may impact your dog’s health. Nutritional values can help determine whether a food is beneficial, should be fed in moderation, or is best avoided.

Safe for dogs?
Yes
Safety rating
Safe in moderation
Serving frequency
In moderation
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Calcium, Potassium, Iron, Magnesium, Fibre, Antioxidants
Benefits
Kale contains antioxidants that may help support immune health and reduce inflammation. It also provides vitamins A, C and K which support vision, immune function and normal blood clotting. The fibre in kale may assist with digestive health when fed in small amounts as part of a balanced diet.
Risks
Large amounts of kale may cause gas, stomach upset or diarrhoea due to its high fibre content. Kale also contains naturally occurring compounds such as oxalates that may contribute to kidney or bladder stones in susceptible dogs. It can also interfere with thyroid function if eaten frequently in very large quantities.
Safety notes/warnings

Kale should only be offered occasionally and in small portions. Some dogs are sensitive to cruciferous vegetables and may develop gas or stomach upset. Kale contains oxalates which may contribute to kidney or bladder stone formation in dogs that are prone to these conditions. Always serve plain kale without salt, sauces, garlic, onion or seasonings. Introduce slowly and monitor your dog for digestive changes.

Calorie information
About 35 calories per 100 grams of raw kale which is roughly one cup of chopped leaves. This makes kale a low calorie vegetable compared with most commercial dog treats.
Serving size
  • Extra Small dogs (1–5 kg): 1 small finely chopped piece occasionally.
  • Small dogs (5–10 kg): About 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon finely chopped kale occasionally.
  • Medium dogs (10–25 kg): Up to 2 tablespoons chopped kale occasionally.
  • Large dogs (25–40 kg): Up to one quarter cup chopped kale occasionally.
  • Extra Large dogs (40 kg+): Up to one third cup chopped kale occasionally.
How to prepare
  • Wash kale thoroughly to remove dirt or residue
  • Remove thick stems which can be tough to chew
  • Chop leaves into very small pieces
  • Serve raw in small amounts or lightly steam to soften
  • Do not add oil, salt, garlic, onion or other seasonings (such as lemon and pepper)
  • Allow cooked kale to cool before feeding
Key information source
RSPCA Australia

Important: We do our best to ensure the information on this page is accurate and based on reputable animal health sources. However, this website is intended for general informational purposes only and the content has not been individually reviewed or approved by a veterinarian.

Every dog is different and reactions to foods can vary. If you have concerns about your dog’s diet or health, it is always best to speak with a qualified veterinarian.

If you believe any information on this page is incorrect or outdated, please let us know via our Contact Us page so we can review and update it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some of common questions that dog owners ask about this food's safety and nutrition

Can dogs have

Kale

everyday?

Dogs can eat kale but it should not be fed every day. While it contains beneficial nutrients it also contains natural compounds that may cause problems if consumed in large or frequent amounts. Offering small portions occasionally is the safest approach while keeping your dog’s main diet balanced and nutritionally complete.

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How much

Kale

can my dog eat?

The amount of kale a dog can eat depends on their size and digestive tolerance. Small dogs may only need a teaspoon or two of finely chopped kale while larger dogs can safely eat a few tablespoons as an occasional treat. It is always best to introduce kale slowly and monitor for any signs of stomach upset.

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What if my dog has too much

Kale

?

If your dog eats too much kale they may develop gas, bloating or loose stools because of the fibre content. In most cases symptoms will settle once the food passes through the digestive system. Make sure your dog has access to fresh water and monitor their behaviour. If vomiting, diarrhoea or signs of discomfort continue it is best to contact your veterinarian.

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Can puppies eat

Kale

?

Puppies can eat very small amounts of kale once they are eating solid food but it should not be a regular part of their diet. Their digestive systems are still developing and fibrous vegetables like kale may cause gas or loose stools. Lightly steamed and finely chopped kale is easier for puppies to chew and digest than raw leaves. It should only be offered occasionally while most nutrition comes from a balanced puppy food.

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Can small dogs eat

Kale

?

Small dogs can eat kale but the portions must be very small. Because they have smaller digestive systems they may be more sensitive to fibre rich vegetables. Finely chopped or lightly steamed kale can help reduce the risk of choking and make it easier to digest. Feeding kale only occasionally is the safest option for small dogs.

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Can senior dogs eat

Kale

?

Senior dogs may benefit from the antioxidants and vitamins found in kale but it should still be served in small portions. Older dogs sometimes have more sensitive digestion so too much kale may lead to gas or stomach upset. Soft steamed kale cut into small pieces can make chewing easier for senior dogs with dental issues.

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Can overweight dogs eat

Kale

?

Kale is low in calories and contains fibre which can help overweight dogs feel satisfied after eating. Replacing high calorie treats with small portions of kale may support weight management. Even though it is low in calories it should still be offered sparingly because too much kale may cause digestive upset or other health concerns in some dogs.

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