Discover the surprising truth about dogs and cucumbers! Is it a crunchy delight or a potential danger? Can dogs have cucumbers? We’re covering it all here!
Have you ever been munching on a cucumber only to find your dog looking at you with those adorable big brown eyes? You think to yourself, can dogs have cucumbers?
The quick answer is yes! Cucumbers are crunchy, juicy, and delicious! What more could your dog ask for?
To find out the best way to serve your dog cucumbers and how much they ought to eat, keep reading.
Are Cucumbers Safe for Dogs?
Cucumbers are among the safest types of fruits (you read correctly, fruits!) your dog can enjoy. Ans just like it’s twin, the dog-safe zucchini, cucumbers are packed with benefits for your pup.
Below we list some of the many benefits of cucumbers as well as highlight how much to serve your pooch daily.
We’ve also included a couple of things to watch out for to prevent potential health risks.
Benefits Of Cucumber For Dogs
Cucumbers are a terrific way to incorporate minerals and nutrients into your dog’s diet. They’re crunchy, delicious, and healthy.
Hydrating
One of their best perks is their high water content. Cucumbers are 96% water, which makes them the perfect summer treat.
Your dog will especially appreciate them after an invigorating walk or outdoor playtime in the hot sun. Cucumbers will keep your furry friend hydrated and restore some of the electrolytes lost during exercise.
Low Calorie
Another advantage to feeding your pooch cucumber slices is that a half cup contains only eight calories. That’s pretty impressive compared with traditional doggie biscuits that have anywhere from 40 to 125 calories.
Not only that, but cucumbers are low in fat and sodium. Plus, they contain only two grams of carbs for almost one cup of peeled cucumber slices.
High Vitamin
These crunchy fruits are full of Vitamin K, which helps keep canine bones healthy and strong. Plus, they’re rich in phytonutrients and phytochemicals. Both help fight oral bacteria and act as natural breath fresheners.
The Risks
We talked about the health benefits of feeding your dog cucumbers. Now, let’s talk about the possible risks.
One problem many dog owners face is they offer too many cucumbers at once. While it won’t result in any severe health issues, it may give your dog an upset stomach or even diarrhea.
Another potential risk of offering your dog cucumbers is they can be a choking hazard. This is more common with small dog breeds or those prone to gobbling down their food.
Nonetheless, vets recommend you peel and cut the cucumber into manageable bites. Also, avoid offering whole cucumbers.
How much cucumber can my dog eat?
To find out how many cucumbers you should give your pooch, follow the 10% rule. According to this rule, snacks make up only 10% of their daily diet. The amount you give a Boston Terrier would be much less than what you’d give a Great Dane, for example.
Cucumber Dog Treats
Now the fun part, let’s feed your pup some cucumber! Here are a few tasty treats that use cucumber for your dog.
- A Dog Charcuterie Board wouldn’t be complete without a few slices of cucumber
- Stuffed KONGS are tantalizing when filled with cucumber slices
- Dog Popsicles are great for using cucumber slices as the dog-safe popsicle stick!
Can puppies eat cucumber?
Yes, puppies can eat cucumber! Cucumbers are generally safe and can be a refreshing and low-calorie snack for puppies. Just ensure that the cucumber is sliced into small, bite-sized pieces to prevent choking hazards. As always, it’s recommended to introduce new foods gradually and observe your puppy for any adverse reactions.
A Final Note
So, can dogs eat cucumbers? Yes, they can! You can even offer them as a juicy, low-calorie alternative to regular doggie treats.
Talk with your vet about the best ways to maintain a healthy and nutritious diet for your canine friend. As with anything, remember that moderation is the key to a well-balanced lifestyle.