Many people like to eat cucumber as a healthy snack, sandwich filling, or salad. But have you ever been tempted to feed a slice or two of cucumber to your dog, but wondered if it might be a bad idea? Can dogs eat cucumbers, or are cucumbers toxic to them?
Can dogs eat cucumbers?
The good news is that cucumbers are a delicious and refreshing snack that is perfectly safe to feed to your dog.
If prepared correctly and safely, your dog can regularly enjoy a slice or two of cucumber as a low-calorie treat.
What are the health benefits of cucumbers?
Most dogs love to eat cucumber, which is a good thing since this crispy salad vegetable is rich in nutrients. Cucumber is an affordable and healthy snack, making them a great choice either as a treat or a reward during training.
The biggest advantage to feeding cucumbers to dogs is their high water content and low calorie count. Cucumbers contain around 96% water, making them great for hydrating your dog on a hot summer’s day or after exercise.
A whole cup of sliced cucumber contains only 16 calories. This makes them a much healthier option than commercial dog treats, and a great choice for dogs that need to lose weight or are prone to obesity.
Cucumbers also contain a moderate amount of antioxidants, helping to boost the immune system. They can help to satisfy hunger, keeping your dog feeling full between meals.
What should I be aware of when offering cucumbers to my dog?
The two main problems associated with feeding cucumbers to dogs are the risk of choking and gastrointestinal upsets.
Although cucumbers are full of water, they can be quite tough for dogs to chew. This means dogs may be tempted to swallow larger chunks which can become lodged in the esophagus and cause your dog to choke.
It is a good idea to cut the cucumber into small thin slices or chunks for your dog to eat. Never be tempted to feed a whole or part cucumber to a dog, as the risk of choking is high.
The digestive system of a dog can struggle to cope with large quantities of cucumber, and it may cause gastrointestinal discomfort or bloat. Veterinary nutritionists advise that treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily food intake. This amount will vary according to the size of the dog, and a very small breed may only be able to eat a slice or two of cucumber.
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