Can Dogs Eat Vegetable Soup? [Share or Not?]

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

Have you ever been in the kitchen, cooking up a delicious pot of vegetable soup, only to have your furry friend give you those puppy-dog eyes, begging for a taste?

It’s hard to resist, isn’t it?

But before you give in to those droopy eyes, let’s talk about, can dogs eat vegetable soup?

We’ve all heard that dogs should stick to a strict diet, but is a little slurp of soup really going to hurt them?

Don’t worry, I’ve got all the answers you need.

In this blog post, we’ll explore the do’s and don’ts of feeding your dog vegetable soup, address the potential risks, and offer some helpful tips to keep your fur baby happy and healthy.

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Can Dogs Eat Canned Vegetable Soup?

Can Dogs Eat Canned Vegetable Soup

Vegetables are a yummy and nutritious addition to your pet’s diet.

However, while veggies themselves are generally healthy for dogs, it’s smart to be cautious with canned vegetable soup. 

The seemingly innocent canned version often contains harmful ingredients that can pose risks to our furry companions.

Ingredients in vegetable soup that may harm dogs

Two notorious culprits found in many canned soups are onions and garlic.

While these add flavor and aroma to the soup, they are toxic to dogs. 

Even just a little amount of it is bad for your pet, potentially causing a serious problem in dogs called hemolytic anemia

The condition destroys their red blood cells, leading to weakness and other dangerous health issues. 

But that’s not all!

Some brands may go overboard with salt.

Too much sodium in their bodies can cause poisoning in our pets. 

Excessive salt intake can lead to dehydration, vomiting, or diarrhea. In some cases, dogs even experience seizures.

Additionally, certain soups may contain high-fat content, which is a big no-no for dogs. Too much fat in their diet can lead to painful inflammation of the pancreas.

Moreover, the artificial additives like preservatives and flavor enhancers found in some canned soups can spell trouble for our canine companions.

These additives may trigger allergies or upset stomachs in dogs.

While these ingredients are usually okay for us to eat, it’s a good idea to steer clear of them when sharing food with our furry friends.

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Can Dogs Eat Homemade Vegetable Soup?

Homemade veggie soup is an awesome option if you want your furry pal to share this nutritious dish with you. 

The best part of it being homemade is that you have full control over what goes into the soup.

Skip the stuff like onions, garlic, and excessive salt – they’re a no-go for pups. 

Instead, load it up with safe and dog-friendly veggies like broccoli, which contains extra fiber and is good for the heart.

Pop in some carrots for beta carotene to boost their immune system.  

Is vegetable soup safe for dogs to drink?

Yes, you can whip up a veggie soup that’s safe and paw-some for your canine companion to drink.

Use dog-friendly ingredients like carrots, sweet potatoes, and other safe veggies that pack a punch of essential vitamins and minerals. 

Doggy says, you might be keen to read this too: My dog ate an Uncrustable!

Healthy Homemade Vegetable Soup for Dogs

To avoid giving your pet potentially harmful soup, why not try cooking your own nutritious yet delicious versions?

Consider these vet-approved options:

Pumpkin and zucchini soup for dogs

This soup is a real winner!

Pumpkin is gentle on their tummy and can help with digestion and firming up their poops.

Zucchini adds a burst of vitamins and minerals, keeping them healthy and happy.

Give it a try with this creamy pumpkin soup recipe for dogs that you can easily modify to include zucchini.

Spinach and parsley soup for dogs

This is a leafy delight that will impress your pup. 

Spinach is a nutrient powerhouse, while parsley freshens breath.

This combo packs the soup with vitamins and antioxidants. 

Chicken and vegetable soup for dogs

Chicken and vegetable soup can be a nourishing addition to a dog’s diet.

Packed with lean protein from chicken, it supports muscle health and provides essential amino acids.

The inclusion of vegetables offers vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, promoting digestion and overall wellness.

The warmth of the soup can also be soothing, especially for senior dogs or those with sensitive stomachs.

What Types of Soup Can Dogs Drink?

Apart from homemade vegetable soup, other dog-friendly soup options can provide variety to your pet’s diet. 

  • Bone broth is a wonderful choice that dogs go crazy over. Not only is it yummy, but it also offers so many health benefits. It is rich in nutrients that support joint health and keeps your pup in tip-top shape. Plus, it contains gelatin, which aids in digestion and can be soothing for sensitive tummies. 
  • Another simple yet delightful choice is chicken or turkey broth. These broths can be prepared without added spices or salt, making them safe and lip-smackingly good for your furry friend. You can simmer some chicken or turkey in water or use the leftover broth from your own cooking to make your furry pal a delicious and nutrition-packed treat.
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What Types of Soup Should Dogs Avoid?

We already know to steer clear of soups with garlic and onion. Adding too much salt to your homemade veggie soup is also a no-no. 

But there are other ingredients that you should also avoid.

Leeks and chives can also cause digestive upset in your pet, so it’s best to skip those too. 

While bone broth can be nutritious, any soup with actual bones should be off-limits. They can splinter and cause harm to your pup’s tummy.

But that’s not all! Some soups can be sneaky with their high-fat content, which can lead to digestive issues and potential pancreatitis. 

Avoid using fatty ingredients like bacon, cream, or excessive butter in your dog’s soup.

Instead, opt for leaner and healthier alternatives like chicken or turkey without the skin.

Can Dogs Eat Commercially Available Powdered Soup Mixes?

Can Dogs Eat Commercially Available Powdered Soup Mixes

Like their canned counterparts, most commercially available powdered soup mixes (or simply instant soup) may contain powdered onion or garlic, which is still harmful to dogs. 

Additionally, these mixes may have artificial flavors, colors, and high salt content, making them unsuitable for our furry friends. 

Honestly, just skip them. The best way is still to cook your dog-friendly version.

Doggy says, you might be keen to read this too: Will a small amount of onion hurt my dog?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is tomato soup good for dogs?

Plain, homemade tomato soup in small amounts is safe for dogs. Tomatoes contain a good amount of vitamins C and A, as well as antioxidants. These can support a dog’s immune system and promote overall health. However, avoid canned versions with harmful ingredients like onions, garlic, or excessive salt.

Can dogs drink broth with onions?

No, onions are highly toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. They have compounds that can harm a dog’s red blood cells, causing a condition called hemolytic anemia. It’s crucial to avoid giving them any broth or food that contains onions to keep them safe and healthy.

Can dogs eat soup with garlic?

No. Garlic contains substances that damage dogs’ red blood cells. This ingredient is very harmful to dogs. It’s best to keep garlic out of their diet entirely to ensure your pets’ well-being.

Can dogs drink vegetable broth?

Yes, plain vegetable broth without onions or garlic can be safe for dogs to drink occasionally. It can be a tasty and nutritious treat for them, especially during colder months. To make dog-friendly vegetable broth, simply simmer vegetables like carrots, celery, and green beans in water, without adding any seasoning.

Can dogs eat potato soup?

Dogs can enjoy homemade potato soup as long as it’s made with dog-safe ingredients. Do not use onions, garlic, and spices. Offer potato soup in moderation as an occasional treat, and always consult your pet’s vet before adding new foods to their diet.

Can dogs eat Campbell’s vegetable soup?

No, Campbell’s vegetable soup may contain harmful ingredients like onions, garlic, excessive salt, and even cream, making it unsuitable for dogs. These ingredients can be toxic and lead to various health issues. It’s best to avoid giving them commercially prepared soups and opt for homemade dog-friendly alternatives.

Is vegetable soup good for overweight dogs?

Yes, vegetable soup without harmful ingredients can be a healthy addition to an overweight dog’s diet due to its lower calorie content and nutritious veggies. However, it shouldn’t replace a balanced meal. Always consult a vet for personalized dietary advice to ensure your furry friend’s well-being.

In Conclusion: Can Dogs Eat Vegetable Soup?

If you do decide to treat your furry friend to a bowl of soup, always go for homemade versions using dog-friendly ingredients.

And of course, don’t forget to consult your vet to ensure you’re making the best choices for your four-legged companion.

Remember, a healthy and happy pup is our ultimate goal!

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Zack Keithy
Zack Keithy

Hey, I'm Zack, the Chief Editor here. I was formerly a Certified Veterinary Technician (CVT) for a good 6 years before moving on to greener pastures. Right now, I am still heavily involved in dog parenting duties, and it is my desire to share all our knowledge with fellow dog owners out there! Connect with me on LinkedIn, or read more about Canine Care Central!

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