Can Dogs Eat Celery? Safe Snack Or Unhealthy Option? – CanineJournal.com
Many consider celery a less desirable vegetable because it lacks flavor. But is this crunchy food a healthy and affordable alternative for snacks? Is celery poisonous for dogs? Find out if celery is okay for dogs and how to share your stalks with your pup safely.
Article Overview
Can Dogs Eat Celery?
First and foremost, can dogs have celery? Yes, but with some precautions. We recommend cutting it up into small pieces or cooking it (especially for smaller dogs) so they don’t choke. With any new food, introduce celery to your dog slowly, mixing it in with her food and sharing it with her gradually to avoid upsetting her stomach.
Be cautious when feeding your dog celery because it’s packed with water and is a natural diuretic that can cause increased urination, upset stomach, gas, bloating, and diarrhea. As always, consult with your vet if you have questions or concerns.
Can Dogs Eat Celery Sticks?
For bigger dogs with intact teeth, celery can replace chew bones to an extent. When fed as a raw stick, the chewing sensation of celery can actually help clean their teeth.
Just be sure and supervise, so they don’t choke on it as it tends to be stringy and hard to swallow. You might try the old peanut butter on celery trick to make it a little tastier. But use peanut butter in moderation as it is high in fat and calories.
Can Dogs Eat Celery Leaves?
Technically yes, and the leaves are more flavorful. However, it’s best to avoid the leafy part because they’re more prone to pesticides. If you wish to share the stems, wash thoroughly with warm water and remove any excess dirt and chemicals that could be hiding in between the leaves.
Is Celery Good For Dogs?
Now that you know that dogs can eat celery, you might be wondering, are there any nutritional benefits for your pup? Luckily, as with humans, there are many health perks to celery for dogs too.
- Vitamin A, K, C & E– Celery contains many vitamins that can improve your dog’s bone health, eyesight, nervous system, and more.
- Zinc & Maganese – These minerals found in celery boost dogs’ immunity, aids in digestion, reduces inflammation, and more.
- Potassium – Celery is a good potassium source that prevents muscle cramps, aids in blood pressure, and assists with heart issues.
- Fiber – Fiber has many advantages, including helping with digestion and making dogs feel full. If your dog is overweight, celery might be worth considering including in their diet.
These are just some of the few reasons to consider including celery in your dog’s daily regimen.
Guide To Feeding Dogs Celery
If you want to integrate celery into your dog’s diet, here are a few ideas about feeding it to him.
- As A Snack – Cut up some washed celery sticks to keep on hand for a low-calorie treat. It’s perfect when you’re on the go or in between meals. (Bonus: add a little peanut butter on it.)
- Juice On Top Of Food – Can dogs have celery juice? You bet. Blend or use a juicer to liquefy it and pour over their meal to help them quickly absorb the vitamins and minerals. Celery juice helps freshen their breath too.
- Chopped And Mixed Into Meals – Dice raw celery into small pieces and sprinkle it on top of their kibble or wet food. It adds a little crunch and nourishment into mealtime.
- Cooked Celery– While cooking celery doesn’t have as much nutritional value, it’s softer for dogs to chew and digest. Carrots are another good option in addition to celery.
Check out our homemade dog food recipes for more DIY options
Video: Watch A Dog Eating A Celery Stick
So you want to feed your dog a celery stick? Start by holding it in your hand and letting him take small bites first. This will prevent him from choking and encourage him to eat and digest it slowly.
What Other Vegetables Can Dogs Eat?
Veggies and fruits are excellent sources of vitamins and nutrients and may add additional benefits to your pet’s overall health. But, do you know which are safe? Be sure to educate yourself on which foods are okay for dogs to eat and what to do if your dog has an upset stomach.
Is your dog a fan of celery?
