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Broccoli

Backed by Dr. Susan Recker

BenefitsServing SizeFrequencyHow to Serve

BENEFITS

All forms of broccoli contain sulforaphane which has been well-researched for its cancer fighting benefits. Compared to the broccoli head, the stalk actually contains double the amount of this health-protective compound. Broccoli sprouts may contain as much as 100 times more sulforaphane than florets.

No matter which way you serve it, unlocking the sulforaphane depends on myrosinase, an enzyme that is packaged within broccoli cells. When the cells are damaged by chopping or chewing, the myrosinase is released so it can activate sulforaphane.

In addition to its action against cancer, broccoli also provides protective benefits for the heart and eyes, and aids in the metabolism of blood glucose. Throw in the fiber, potassium, and vitamins A, C, and K that broccoli provides, and it shapes up as a superhero in your dog’s dish whether as part of a complete and balanced recipe, or as a treat or topper.


Serving Size

XS dogs
(< 10 lbs)

1 small floret (1” diameter)*

S dogs
(10 - 20 lbs)

1 medium floret (1.5” diameter)*

M
(21 - 50 lbs)

1 large floret (2” diameter)*

L dogs
(51 - 90 lbs)

2 large florets (2” diameter)*

XL dogs
(> 90 lbs)

3 large florets (2” diameter)*

*When used as a treat or topper.


FREQUENCY

Safe to feed daily. We recommend rotating toppers for variety to support healthy microbiome development.


HOW TO SERVE

  1. Wash thoroughly.
  2. Chop & allow to sit for 90 minutes before feeding to increase the sulforaphane content.
  3. Cook the broccoli to make it more easily digestible for your dog, and to reduce goitrogens if your dog has or is prone to hypothyroidism.
  4. If including the broccoli stalk, feed ¼ tsp per 10 lbs of body weight.
  5. Serve as a healthy treat or directly on your dog’s food as a meal topper.
  6. Introduce slowly if broccoli is new to your dog to prevent excess gas. As their microbiome adjusts, your dog will be able to handle more.
warning

IMPORTANT

Broccoli may present a choking hazard for smaller dogs. Be mindful of your dog’s size and cut into small slices.



arrow_rightReferences

Curran KM, Bracha S, Wong CP, Beaver LM, Stevens JF, Ho E. Sulforaphane absorption and histone deacetylase activity following single dosing of broccoli sprout supplement in normal dogs. Vet Med Sci. 2018 Nov;4(4):357-363. doi: 10.1002/vms3.118. Epub 2018 Aug 17. PMID: 30117668; PMCID: PMC6236138.

Tříska J, Balík J, Houška M, Novotná P, Magner M, Vrchotová N, Híc P, Jílek L, Thorová K, Šnurkovič P, Soural I. Factors Influencing Sulforaphane Content in Broccoli Sprouts and Subsequent Sulforaphane Extraction. Foods. 2021 Aug 19;10(8):1927. doi: 10.3390/foods10081927. PMID: 34441704; PMCID: PMC8394606.

Andrés CMC, Pérez de la Lastra JM, Munguira EB, Juan CA, Pérez-Lebeña E. The Multifaceted Health Benefits of Broccoli-A Review of Glucosinolates, Phenolics and Antimicrobial Peptides. Molecules. 2025 May 22;30(11):2262. doi: 10.3390/molecules30112262. PMID: 40509149; PMCID: PMC12156470.