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Can dogs eat celery?

Can dogs eat celery?

Yes, dogs can safely eat celery in moderation as a low-calorie, hydrating snack when prepared properly.

Can Dogs Eat Celery? A Comprehensive Guide

Many pet owners wonder if they can share their favorite vegetables with their furry companions. Celery is one such vegetable that often raises questions. The good news: dogs can safely enjoy celery as an occasional treat, but there are important guidelines to follow for their well-being.

Why Celery Can Be Good for Dogs

Celery is a low-calorie, hydrating vegetable, making it a suitable snack for dogs—especially those who need to watch their weight or stay hydrated during hot weather. It's packed with beneficial nutrients, including:

Vitamins A, C, and K
Folate
Potassium
Manganese
Calcium and magnesium

This crunchy veggie is also high in fiber and antioxidants. Since celery is about 95% water, it helps keep your dog hydrated while offering a satisfying crunch.

The Benefits of Celery for Dogs

Weight management: Low in calories and fat-free, celery is ideal for overweight dogs.
Hydration: Its high water content supports hydration needs.
Oral health: Crunchy texture can help clean teeth and freshen breath.

Despite these perks, celery should never replace your dog's complete and balanced diet. Regular dog food remains essential for meeting all nutritional needs.

How to Prepare Celery Safely for Dogs

Wash thoroughly: Always rinse celery well to remove dirt and pesticide residues (especially from the leaves).
Cut into small pieces: Slice celery into bite-sized chunks to prevent choking—particularly important for small breeds and puppies.
Remove stringy fibers: For dogs with sensitive digestion, take out the tough strings that can be hard to chew or digest.
Avoid seasonings: Serve plain—never add salt, onions, garlic, or other harmful ingredients. If you want to make it special, use a tiny bit of xylitol-free peanut butter (but only sparingly).

You can offer celery raw or lightly cooked/steamed. Cooking makes it easier to digest but may reduce some nutrient content compared to raw.

Treat Size Guidelines by Dog Size

Tiny dogs (2-20 lbs): 1–2 bite-sized pieces (about half an inch wide)
Small dogs (21-30 lbs): 2–3 pieces (about one inch wide)
Medium dogs (31-50 lbs): Up to 5–6 pieces (one inch wide)
Large dogs (51-90+ lbs): A small handful, chopped appropriately

Treats—including celery—should never make up more than 10% of your dog's daily calories. Introduce new foods slowly so you can watch for any problems.

Cautions & Possible Side Effects

If you feed too much celery or your dog has a sensitivity, you might notice digestive upset like vomiting, diarrhea, gas, or bloating. Rarely, some dogs may show allergy symptoms such as itching, skin rash, swelling, or behavioral changes. Because celery acts as a mild diuretic and contains more sodium than some veggies, don't overdo it—especially if your dog has kidney issues or needs sodium restriction.

Puppies and Celery: Special Considerations

Puppies can try celery once they're at least eight weeks old and eating solid food. Chop the pieces extra small and monitor closely for any signs of digestive discomfort or choking.

The Stalks vs. Leaves Debate

The stalks and leaves of celery are both non-toxic for dogs. Leaves offer extra nutrients but may hold more pesticides and be tougher to digest—so wash them thoroughly or skip them unless you're using organic produce.

Clever Ways to Serve Celery Treats

Straight-up: Plain chopped raw or cooked pieces as treats
Kibble mix-in: Small bits stirred into regular food for added crunch and nutrition
Icy snack: Freeze bite-sized chunks for a cooling summer treat
Treat topper: Smear with a dab of xylitol-free peanut butter (just a little!)

Avoid feeding celery with high-fat toppings or toxic additions like onions and garlic.

If Your Dog Reacts Poorly…

If you see vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, itching, swelling—or anything unusual—stop feeding celery right away and consult your vet. Every dog is different; what works well for one may not suit another.