Can dogs eat lettuce?

Lettuce is about 95 percent water, so its main appeal is crunch and hydration. Romaine has slightly more fiber and vitamins than iceberg, though neither adds much to a dog's diet that complete food does not already provide. Many dogs enjoy the texture, especially the crisp core of a romaine heart.

Tear or chop leaves so they are easy to swallow; large whole leaves can be awkward for small dogs.

A few leaves is plenty. Because lettuce is so light, overfeeding rarely causes weight gain, but big amounts of any leafy green can lead to loose stools or gas. For a 10 kg (22 lb) dog, two or three torn leaves is a good snack.

Some dogs happily munch on lettuce, while others spit it out. There is no need to push it; lettuce adds little nutrition, so its value is mainly as a light, crunchy snack for dogs who like it.

Most salads include ingredients that dogs should not eat: onion, chives, garlic dressings, croutons with garlic butter, bacon bits, blue cheese, grapes, raisins or nuts. Caesar dressing contains garlic and anchovies. Before sharing any lettuce from a salad bowl, make sure it has not been dressed or tossed with these extras.

Lettuce has been linked to bacterial contamination recalls in several countries. Rinse leaves thoroughly under running water, and throw away lettuce that is slimy or past its date. Bagged salad mixes should be checked for added onion, herbs or dressing sachets.