Can dogs eat cucumbers? Maybe you were preparing a salad and your dog accidentally grabbed a piece of cucumber, or perhaps you are looking for healthy treats for your dog. Humans can eat cucumbers, so are cucumbers safe for dogs to eat?
The short answer is yes, dogs can eat cucumbers, so long as they stay away from pickles. In fact, with the vegetable’s low caloric value and water content, a cucumber can make an excellent healthy treat for your dog.
As always, you should ask your vet before sharing any human foods with your dog, including cucumbers. Here’s everything you need to know about giving your dog cucumbers.
How Are Cucumbers Good For Dogs?
Cucumbers are about 96 percent water, which makes them excellent, hydrating treats for dogs. They’re low calorie treats, which makes them an excellent choice for dogs on a weight-loss regimen.
Cucumbers also have vitamin K, which keeps your dog’s bones strong and healthy. They have vitamins and minerals that help keep your dog’s liver and kidneys functioning properly too.
And, as a bonus, cucumbers have phytochemicals and phytonutrients that help eliminate bad breath. Of course, feeding your dog cucumbers shouldn’t replace brushing their teeth, but it can help with dogs who have stinky breath.
How Can I Safely Give Cucumbers To My Dog?
First, talk to your vet. They can tell you how much cucumber, if any, you should feed your dog and how many servings will be appropriate.
As with all fruits and veggies, be sure to thoroughly wash cucumbers before feeding them to your dog. Cut them into smaller pieces, as simply giving your dog a cucumber to gnaw on could easily become a choking hazard.
It’s also recommended to remove the cucumber skin, as dogs have a difficult time digesting them. Still, a little bit of cucumber skin here and there won’t be detrimental to your dog’s health.
Also, be sure to only give your dog cucumbers in moderation, as too much of this hydrating vegetable can give dogs gastrointestinal problems like diarrhea.
Do not give your dog pickled cucumbers, AKA pickles, as the spices used to season the pickle can be dangerous for your dog. Stick to plain, peeled cucumbers if you want to give your dog a healthy snack.
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Does your dog ever snack on cucumber? Have you included cucumbers in your dog’s diet? Let us know in the comments below!
