Safe in moderation

Can dogs eat aubergines?

Yes — plain cooked aubergine (eggplant) is fine for most dogs in small amounts. Skip fried, breaded, oily, or heavily seasoned preparations.

Not medical advice — general pet-safety info only. Confirm with your vet before changing your dog’s diet.

Confidence High Updated Jul 28, 2026 Category Nutrition

Everyday alternatives

Cooked aubergine is an occasional people-food share. For daily training, use treats that portion cleanly.

How much is okay?

Think of aubergine as a soft veggie cube topper — not a roast-side for dogs.

Small · under 20 lb
1–2 small cubes
A few times a week
Medium · 20–50 lb
2–4 cubes
Occasional snack
Large · 50+ lb
Small handful of cubes
Still keep it rare

Rule of thumb: treats of all kinds should stay under ~10% of daily calories.

How to prepare them

  • Cook until soft (steam, boil, bake). Avoid raw — it’s harder to digest.
  • Serve plain: no garlic, onion, salt, oil baths, cheese, or tomato sauce.
  • Peeling is optional; cut into small cubes either way.
  • Cool before serving.

Risks & exceptions

  • Fat & frying — eggplant soaks oil; fried aubergine is a skip.
  • Seasoned dishes — ratatouille, curries, and parm-style bakes usually include onion/garlic/dairy.
  • Stomach upset — too much fiber/nightshade veg can loosen stool.
  • Solanine myth vs reality — ripe eggplant is generally fine cooked in small amounts; still don’t make it a staple.

If your dog ate a lot

A few plain cooked cubes are usually fine. Watch for GI upset if your dog got a bigger share.

  • Mild: soft stool, temporary gas
  • Call your vet if: repeated vomiting, lethargy, or your dog has a relevant medical condition

This page is general pet-safety information, not a veterinary diagnosis. When in doubt, contact your vet or ASPCA Animal Poison Control.

FAQ

Is aubergine the same as eggplant?

Yes — same plant. “Aubergine” is the common UK/commonwealth name.

Can dogs eat raw aubergine?

Better cooked. Raw is tougher and more likely to upset a sensitive stomach.

Can dogs eat eggplant skin?

Usually okay if washed and cooked, but peel it if your dog is sensitive or a gulper.

What about eggplant Parmesan leftovers?

No — breading, cheese, sauce, garlic, and onion make it unsafe.

Affiliate disclosure: we may earn a commission from product links. Safety guidance is editorial and may change — verify with your veterinarian for your dog.