Yes, guinea pigs can eat dandelion leaves (greens), flowers, stems, and roots. Dandelions are nutritious, freely available, and a favourite among many guinea pigs. However, they should be fed in moderation and as part of a varied diet of fresh vegetables and safe weeds.
Benefits of Dandelion for Guinea Pigs
- Highly nutritious — Packed with vitamins, minerals, fibre, and antioxidants.
- Versatile — Leaves, flowers, stems, and roots are all safe to eat.
- Cost-effective and natural — Free and easily foraged, providing enrichment and enjoyment.
How to Safely Feed Dandelion to Guinea Pigs
- Frequency: A few times a week, as part of a varied diet
- Quantity: Small handfuls per guinea pig
- Preparation: Wash thoroughly to ensure they are safe and clean
- Avoid: Picking dandelions from polluted areas, sprayed lawns, or spots where dogs may have urinated
💡 Tip: Air-dry dandelions to make long-lasting dried forage that can be mixed into hay for added enrichment.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrition | mg per 100g |
|---|---|
| Vitamin C | 35 |
| Calcium | 187 |
| Sugar | 0.7 |
| Water | unknown |
| Fibre | 3.5 |
| Phosphorous | 66 |
Safe Vegetables
Full information on safe vegetables for guinea pigs including feeding guide ›
🫑 Bell Peppers → Read the Bell Pepper guide ›
🥬 Bok Choy → Read the Bok Choy (Pak Choi / Chinese Leaf) guide ›
🥦 Broccoli → Read the Broccoli guide ›
🥕 Carrots → Read the Carrot guide ›
🌱 Celeriac→ Read the Celeriac guide ›
🌱 Celery → Read the Celery guide ›
🥬 Collard Greens → Read the Collard Greens guide ›
🌾 Corn on the Cob → Read the Corn guide ›
🥒 Cucumber → Read the Cucumber guide ›
🌼 Dandelion → Read the Dandelion guide ›
🌿 Fennel → Read the Fennel guide ›
🌿 French Beans (Fine Green Beans) → Read the French Beans guide ›
🥬 Kale → Read the Kale guide ›
🥬 Lettuce → Read the Lettuce guide ›
🌿 Spinach → Read the Spinach guide ›
🍅 Tomato→ Read the Tomato guide ›
🍃 Watercress→ Read the Watercress guide ›
Safe Fruits
Full information on safe fruit for guinea pigs and feeding guide ›
🍎 Apple →Read the Apple guide ›
🍌 Banana →Read the Banana guide ›
🫐 Blueberries →Read the Blueberries guide ›
🍇 Grapes →Read the Grape guide ›
🍈 Melon →Read the Melon guide ›
🍓 Strawberries →Read the Strawberry guide ›
🍉 Watermelon →Read the Watermelon guide ›
Safe Herbs
Full information on safe herbs for guinea pigs and feeding guide ›
🌿 Basil → Read the Basil guide ›
🌱 Coriander (Cilantro) → Read the Coriander guide ›
🌿 Dill → Read the Dill guide ›
🌱 Mint → Read the Mint guide ›
🌿 Parsley → Read the Parsley guide ›
