Lettuce?

Why it’s safe

The AKC says lettuce is generally safe for dogs to eat in moderation, and names romaine and iceberg as non-toxic. It is low in calories and about 90% water, with some fiber, so it suits dogs that need to watch their weight. Its nutritional value is fairly low, especially for iceberg, but some dogs enjoy the crunch.

The main concerns are minor. The AKC says too much could cause diarrhea, and that lettuce can be hard to digest in big pieces, so chop it up, especially for small dogs or dogs that gulp food. It also advises washing lettuce thoroughly and knowing where it comes from.

What goes on the lettuce matters more than the lettuce itself. The AKC warns that salads often include ingredients that are toxic to dogs, such as onions, and the ASPCA lists onions, garlic, and grapes and raisins as foods to avoid. Serve lettuce plain rather than sharing a prepared salad.

How to serve it safely

Wash the leaves thoroughly, then tear or chop them into pieces suited to your dog's size. Serve plain, with no dressing, oil, onion or garlic. A plain piece from time to time is fine as a low-calorie treat or crunchy topper on regular meals.

Treats should stay below 10% of daily calories, but lettuce contributes very few. Introduce it gradually and in moderation.

If your dog already ate it

If your dog ate some plain lettuce, nothing is usually needed, though digestive upset is possible if a lot was eaten. Offer water and monitor.

If the lettuce came from a salad with dressing, onion, garlic, grapes or raisins, find out what was in it. Raisins and grapes are an emergency, and onions and garlic are also harmful. Contact your vet, an emergency clinic, ASPCA Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435 or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 (US; fees may apply). Outside the US, contact your local emergency vet. Do not try to make your dog vomit at home.