Can Dogs Eat Celery?
Yes, dogs can safely eat celery! This crunchy vegetable is a healthy, low-calorie snack that provides vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and fiber. It’s also naturally high in water content, making it a refreshing treat, especially during warm weather. Plus, the crunchy texture can help clean your dog’s teeth while they chew.
How to feed celery to your dog
To safely prepare celery for your dog:
- Wash thoroughly to remove dirt and pesticides
- Cut into small, manageable pieces (2-3 inches for large dogs, smaller for small dogs)
- Remove strings if possible, as they can be tough to digest
- Cut into bite-sized chunks for small dogs or puppies
- Can be served:
- Raw (cut into appropriate sizes)
- Lightly steamed
- Mixed into regular food
- Used as a training treat
Warnings and Considerations
While celery is generally safe, keep these points in mind:
- Long pieces can be a choking hazard
- Stringy parts might be hard to digest
- Some dogs may experience increased urination due to natural diuretic properties
- Leaves should be removed as they can cause stomach upset
- Start slowly as too much can cause diarrhea
Portion Guidelines
Follow these serving suggestions based on dog size:
- Small dogs: 1-2 small pieces (1-inch sections)
- Medium dogs: 2-3 medium pieces (2-inch sections)
- Large dogs: 3-4 larger pieces (3-inch sections)
Celery should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily food intake.
Good to know: Celery makes an excellent treat for overweight dogs due to its low calorie content. The high water and fiber content can help dogs feel full while consuming fewer calories. Some people claim celery can help freshen dogs’ breath, though this effect is likely temporary. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, try steaming the celery lightly to make it easier to digest.
While celery is safe and healthy, some dogs may not enjoy its texture or taste. Never force your dog to eat it if they’re not interested – there are plenty of other healthy treats they might prefer.
