If your canine companion is carrying a few extra pounds, you might be exploring different options for treats aside from the usual ones. But is celery a viable option for dogs? Fortunately, they can consume the hydrating stalks, albeit with some reluctance.
Similar to humans, dogs may not show much enthusiasm for munching on this mildly flavored vegetable, despite its digestive advantages and low calorie count. According to estimates from the USDA, a sizable celery stalk contains around 9 or 10 calories, although convincing your dog of this fact might prove challenging.
Here are further details you should be aware of regarding the suitability of celery for dogs:
How Can Dogs Have Celery?
You may attempt offering plain celery to your dog, or you might need to enhance its appeal. Dr. Ernie Ward, founder of the Association for Pet Obesity Prevention and author of The Clean Pet Food Revolution, regards celery as a favorable dog treat due to its health benefits. However, he acknowledges that some dogs may enjoy it solely for its crunchy texture and satisfying chewing experience. Dr. Renee Schmid, a veterinarian toxicologist affiliated with Pet Poison Helpline, shares Ward’s sentiment, labeling celery as an ideal snack for dogs. Nonetheless, she admits that few dogs willingly consume it without any additions. Dr. Schmid suggests incorporating peanut butter to increase its palatability, though this also elevates the snack’s calorie and fat content, necessitating moderation. It’s crucial to limit treats to no more than 10 percent of your dog’s daily caloric intake. Additionally, caution is advised regarding peanut butter with raisins, as grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs.
Is Celery Good for Dogs?
Yup, celery is good for dogs as long as it’s still plain.
The vegetable has water and fiber, which can be good for a dog’s digestion, and only has a few calories. However, different dogs react to fiber differently: Sometimes a lot of fiber helps digestion, and other times fiber can cause digestive issues.
That’s another reason to watch the portion size and thoroughly wash before feeding. You’ll want to keep your celery safe for dogs.
If you’re worried your dog could choke on the celery, Schmid says it’s not likely.
“Most dogs would likely need to chomp on a long piece to figure out how to get it all in their mouth,” Schmid says.
Schmid has never seen a celery choking incident at Pet Poison Helpline, but she figures just to be extra safe, you could cut celery into half-inch or shorter pieces just to keep throat irritation to a minimum if your dog likes to swallow things whole.
Also consider removing the leaves as those are the part of the celery most likely to contain pesticides.
What Other Vegetables Can Dogs Eat?
Out of the whole wide world of fresh vegetables, there’s a chance your favorite canine won’t go for celery. But there are other human foods you can safely share with your dog. And here are some vegetable options that might make the cut if your dog turns her nose up at celery:
Broccoli
Corn
Cucumbers
Green beans
Mushrooms (only the ones from your fridge, not the ones from your yard)
Potatoes
Squash
Sweet potatoes
Pumpkin
Asparagus
Carrots
If these don’t work, keep experimenting with healthy choices, Ward says.
“I want people to give treats,” he says. “It’s a highly emotionally rewarding experience for you and your dog.”
