Food

Can Dogs Eat Celery? Is It Safe Or Unhealthy?

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puppy sniffing a stalk of celery jpg

Many consider celery a less desirable vegetable because it lacks flavor. I personally only eat it when drenched in a savory dip like hummus or ranch, but not on its own. But is celery bad for dogs, or 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.

Can Dogs Eat Celery?

First and foremost, can dogs have celery? Yes, but with some precautions. It’s recommended to cut it up into small pieces or cook 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.

How much celery is okay? Be cautious when feeding your dog celery because it’s packed with water and is a natural diuretic and too much celery 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.

overhead shot of celery on a table with chipped celery and celery juice jpg

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 exposed to pesticides. If you wish to share, wash it thoroughly with warm water to minimize any excess dirt and chemicals.

Another option would be to choose organic celery which eliminates the concern over herbacides or pesticides on the leaves.

Is Celery Good For Dogs?

Now that you know that dogs can eat celery, you might be wondering if there are any nutritional benefits of celery 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 & Manganese – These minerals found in celery boost dogs’ immunity, aid in digestion, reduce 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.
  • Cleaner Teeth – The crunchy texture can remove some plaque from a dog’s teeth, making it a good option for fresher breath.

Risks Of Dogs Eating Celery

“Due to its firm and fibrous nature, celery can get stuck in the mouth or lodged in the throat, becoming a choking hazard,” warns veterinarian Hannah Godfrey. “Larger amounts can cause blockages within the esophagus, stomach, or guts. Fibrous celery strings can also get stuck between your dog’s teeth, causing pain and attracting bacteria.”

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 to it.)
  • Juice On Top Of Food – Can dogs have celery juice? You bet. Blend or use a juicer to liquefy it and pour it over their meal to help them quickly absorb the vitamins and minerals. Celery juice helps freshen their breath.
  • 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 to 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.

Why Trust Us?

Sadie’s a dog mom to a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, a charming but picky eater. She is extra vigilant about what goes into her dog’s bowl (and tummy). Her commitment to providing only the safest and most nutritious options led her to delve into extensive research on canine nutrition. For more than a decade, Sadie has been at the forefront of understanding the nuances of canine dietary needs. Her expertise extends to a deep knowledge of what human foods are not only safe but also beneficial for our furry friends.

Sadie Cornelius

Sadie graduated from the Moody School of Communications at the University of Texas at Austin with a Bachelor’s in Advertising and a business concentration from UT’s McCombs School Of Business. She has covered dog-related topics for Canine Journal since 2012. Her dog advice and expertise have appeared in many notable media outlets, including The New York Times, Forbes, People, Reader’s Digest, Apartment Therapy, and dozens of regional news organizations. Sadie’s love of pets started from an early age with her childhood Cocker Spaniel and cats and is a dog mom to a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Georgie.

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