Can My Dog Eat Celery?
If you still don’t know yet, your dog can become obese quicker than you think. Obesity in dogs is quite common, especially if pet owners are not mindful of the food and treats they give to their pet dogs. If you’re not careful, you might wake up one morning and find you can’t even lift your furry pet because of their obesity.
Just like humans, dogs need the right nutrients to stay healthy. You don’t want to have an unhealthy pet, because aside from being quite expensive, it’s hard to see your pet suffer. So, what do you do? Choose healthy food and treats for your dog. You can try giving them fruits and vegetables instead of fattening snacks.
But what to choose? Carrot sticks are quite popular among dog owners, also green peas and potatoes. How about celery?Can my dog eat celery?
Quick Answer
The answer to that question is a big YES. Your dog can eat celery!
Can Dogs Eat Celery?
Dog owners can give dogs vegetables as treats. However, not all kinds of vegetables are safe for dogs. Make sure to gather information first or consult with the veterinarian before treating your dog to celery. Technically, dogs are omnivores, meaning they can eat and easily digest nutrients from both plants and meat.
Are you aware that most commercial dog foods available in the market do not just contain meat? Most of them contain plant ingredients, like corn, rice, green peas, potatoes, and many other kinds of vegetables and fruits. Celery is one of the many vegetables that are safe for your pet dog to eat.
Potential Side Effects of Giving Your Dog Celery
Celery can be good for dogs, but it can also be bad. Too much of a good thing can cause ill effects. How you serve this vegetable has an impact on how safe it is for your pet. The salt content in celery can cause a number of medical conditions, including increased blood pressure and kidney disease.
It doesn’t pose a problem short-term since your dog can easily pass the excess salt in their urine. However, long-term consumption may cause some health issues. Celery is also a choking hazard, especially for small dogs. This vegetable is firm and fibrous and can be dangerous to dogs when served in large chunks.
If your dog is already getting a balanced diet from the commercial dog food you are feeding them, supplementing too often with other food groups could potentially cause an imbalance in their internal chemistry. For example, consuming too much fiber can cause digestive problems. Excessive Vitamin C could cause bladder and kidney stones.
Take note that celery’s water content may cause your dog to urinate more often, which could lead to dehydration. Too much celery may also cause abdominal upset, including gas, bloating, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea in dogs.
How Can Celery Be Bad for Dogs?
When given in large amounts, celery can be bad for your dog. Feed your dog celery only in moderation. Most pet owners choose fresh, organic celery because the non-organic varieties might contain pesticides, which could be harmful to dogs.
Celery leaves could potentially cause discomfort in dogs, so you have to observe how your pet reacts after consuming them. If it causes abnormal bowel movements, stop feeding them the leaves.
Nutritional Value of Celery for Dogs
Celery contains nutrients that are good for both humans and dogs.
- Vitamin A keeps your dog’s coat and skin healthy. It also helps ensure that muscles and nerves function properly.
- The Vitamin K in celery is vital for proper blood clotting.
- Celery also has Vitamin C. Take note, though, that your pet already naturally produces Vitamin C. A healthy canine doesn’t actually need additional Vitamin C in their diet. There is some evidence that dietary Vitamin C could be beneficial for sick or stressed dogs.
- Celery has fiber, which could potentially aid digestion in adequate amounts. It also helps maintain your dog’s ideal weight.
Health Benefits of Celery for Dogs
So, now you know your pet can eat celery, but can they consume celery and benefit from it? You might find it a relief that some vets recommend celery for dogs to help with weight management. Celery may help prevent obesity, and it is healthier than treats that are rich in sugar and fat. Healthier treats are beneficial for obese or overweight dogs.
Here are some of the benefits that celery offers:
- The potassium in celery helps your dog stay hydrated. It also helps prevent muscle cramps.
- The zinc in celery helps enhance their immune system and aids in proper digestion.
- Celery is rich in the mineral manganese, which helps keep their blood sugar at acceptable levels. It also helps keep their bones healthy and helps reduce swelling.
- Celery also contains antioxidants that can fight inflammation.
You have to take note that treats, whether fruits, vegetables, or others, should be no more than 10% of your pet’s diet. Giving your dog too many treats could cause weight gain.
How Much Celery Can Dogs Eat?
Keep in mind that you should only give celery as a treat and not as meal replacement unless the vet recommends otherwise. Again, treats should only be approximately 10% of your dog’s diet, especially if your pet is obese or overweight. One cup of celery could be too much. It is important to consult with the vet on the appropriate portion size you should give your dog.
Is Celery Good for Dogs?
Generally, celery is beneficial to your dog. It’s a healthy treat, but make sure to just give it in moderation.
How to Give Your Dog Celery
Remember that large chunks of celery are choking hazards. Cut them in smaller chunks before feeding your furry friend.
Ways to Feed Your Dog Celery
Cooking celery, like boiling or steaming, is recommended. Don’t add salt or other seasonings. Cooked celery is soft, and your dog will love it because it’s easier to chew and digest.
Your dog might love celery with a tiny bit of peanut butter. You can also mix celery with other food.