Celery might not be the first thing you think of when it comes to your dog’s diet, but it’s a common snack many pet parents consider sharing with their pups.
While celery is generally safe for dogs in small amounts, there are a few important things to know before tossing a stalk to your pup (and also about why celery juice or powder may be bad for your dog).
Stop Googling - Ask a Real Vet
Content:
- Is Celery Good for Dogs
- Should Dogs Eat Raw or Cooked Celery
- Can Dogs Have Celery Leaves or Sticks
- Conclusion
Is Celery Good for Dogs
Celery is made up mostly of water, but it’s also packed with nutrients like riboflavin, folate, vitamins A, C, K, and B6, as well as calcium, potassium, magnesium, and fiber. It’s low in calories and has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a healthy addition to human diets.
However, when it comes to dogs, there isn’t much research on the nutritional benefits of celery for them specifically. Keep in mind, a dog’s body works differently than ours and can't always access the same nutrients from plants that ours can (this is called “bioavailability"). Even so, a bit of celery is usually a safe, low-calorie treat for them.
But, if you decide to share a little celery with your dog, it’s best to stick to fresh celery in moderation.
Remember, dog parents need to avoid celery powders, celery juice, or dehydrated celery products. These often contain high levels of natural nitrates, which are used in curing meats but have been linked to potential health risks, including cancer.
As Dr. Karen Collins, a registered dietitian, explains, “Manufacturers using celery products can claim their meat has ‘no nitrates or nitrites added,’ except for those naturally occurring. But celery is naturally high in nitrates, so adding celery powder to meat is simply another way of providing nitrates. In passing from mouth to stomach, nitrates get converted to nitrite.”
For dog parents, this means that while fresh celery is fine (as it’s mostly water), avoiding processed, condensed celery products is a smart move. If you’re unsure whether celery is right for your dog, a Petcube Cam can help you monitor how they react to new foods in case it causes any problems.
Should Dogs Eat Raw or Cooked Celery
Raw celery can be a crunchy and enjoyable treat for some dogs, but its stringy texture might be difficult for others to chew and digest. Not every dog likes it, but if they do, there’s no harm in giving them some.
Remember that cutting it into small, bite-sized pieces can help prevent choking hazards, especially for smaller dogs. If your dog struggles with raw celery, lightly cooking or steaming it may make it easier for them to eat.
Cooking celery also reduces some of its stringiness while still retaining most of its nutritional benefits. However, avoid adding oils, salt, or seasonings, as these can be harmful to dogs. Always stick to plain celery when offering it as a snack.
Can Dogs Have Celery Leaves or Sticks
Celery sticks are generally safe when prepared properly, but what about the leaves? Celery leaves are higher in nutrients than the stalks but can also be a bit bitter. While not toxic to dogs, some dogs may not like the taste or find them harder to digest. If you decide to give your dog celery leaves, keep the portions small and watch for any adverse reactions.
One Reddit user shared their dog’s unique way of enjoying celery: “Mine likes to hang on to it. Just kind of chewing at it like a bone. It keeps him occupied, and provides him bonus mini-celeries all over the house to snack on until I get to cleaning it all up.”
This goes to show that every dog is different. Whether it’s celery sticks or leaves, introduce new foods slowly and keep an eye on how your dog reacts. If your dog experiences an upset stomach or other unusual symptoms, having access to Petcube’s Emergency Fund can be a lifesaver. The fund offers up to $3,000 for emergency vet bills and 24/7 online vet access if you have any worries.
Conclusion
Celery can be a healthy, low-calorie snack for your dog when offered fresh and in moderation. But try to avoid giving you dog celery spices, powders, juices, or dehydrated celery products due to their high nitrate content, which could pose risks (and remember that a lot of processed meat contains celery powder). Always introduce a new food to your dog gradually and speak to a vet if you’re unsure.
Whether your dog’s snacking style is enthusiastic or cautious, keeping an eye on their health is key. Tools like the Petcube Cam can help you ensure they’re safe and enjoying their treats responsibly. So go ahead—if your dog seems curious about celery, let them give it a try. Just be sure to keep it simple, fresh, and fun.