You may see a weed but Cooper sees a buffet. I'm not sure what motivates dogs to go after dandelions. It doesn't seem like an obvious first choice for nutrients or a nice light snack but Cooper LOVES dandelions. He's a bit picky on the type though. The low growing dandelions are apparently the best pickin's.
And he's not the only one. At any given time at the off leash park you will see at least three dogs either eating the tops or digging for roots. Last week Cooper almost got in a fight because he got too close to another dog's root. Seriously boys - there is a whole field for you. Or feel free to come to my house. Beats digging them out by hand.
That brings us to the age old question - will he get sick from eating dandelions? Assuming the park hasn't been sprayed, which no longer happens in Winnipeg thank goodness, eating dandelions is not dangerous. Dandelions are actually considered a medicinal plant and gourmet food. You get dandelion greens in fancy restaurants and if you were lucky enough to grow-up in the country, a little dandelion wine made from the flowers was considered good "medicine". Dandelion leaves and flowers are a good source of lutein. Lutein helps protect the eyes from damage caused by the sun. The roots contain choline, which is a good "colon cleanser". Maybe that is why you think your dog is sick after eating dandelions but it is just your dog's way of starting a detox. As long as that "cleanse" happens outside, all is good. Truthfully, other than wine, not a lot is written about dandelion flowers - Cooper's treat of choice. Perhaps I'll have to try a few myself and see what all of the fuss is about.
Given the option of playing with other dogs or eating at the smorg, Cooper chooses to belly up for a good feed. Have at'er Coop because they won't be around for long.
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