Can Dogs Eat Celery?

Answer: Yes.

Yes. Celery is safe for dogs when served plain and cut into small pieces. It is low in calories and high in water and fibre, which makes it a useful light treat, especially for dogs that need to watch their weight.

Why celery is safe

Celery is on the AKC’s list of safe vegetables for dogs. It is about 10 calories a stalk, high in water and fibre, and provides vitamins A, C and K. The AKC notes that celery is sometimes recommended as a treat for dogs that need to manage their weight — though celery alone does not cause weight loss.

How much celery can a dog eat?

Keep all treats, celery included, within about 10% of your dog’s daily calories. As a guide:

Dog size Amount, as a treat
Small (under 10 kg / 22 lb) 1–2 small pieces
Medium (10–25 kg / 22–55 lb) 2–3 small pieces
Large (over 25 kg / 55 lb) 3–4 small pieces

Start with one or two pieces when you first offer celery, and watch for stomach upset.

How to serve celery to your dog

Wash the stalk, pull off the stringy fibres, and cut it into bite-size pieces — thin slices for small dogs. Serve it raw or lightly steamed, with no salt, butter or dips. Do not serve celery that was cooked in a soup or stuffing with onion or garlic, and skip “ants on a log” — it pairs celery with raisins, which are toxic to dogs.

Watch out for

The main risk is choking. Long, stringy stalks and large chunks can lodge in a small dog’s throat or gut. Too much celery at once can cause gas, vomiting or loose stool, especially the first time. If your dog is gagging, pawing at its mouth or struggling to breathe after eating celery, get vet help immediately.

Frequently asked questions

Can puppies eat celery?

Yes, in small amounts. Chop it very finely or lightly steam it, and introduce it slowly, since puppies have sensitive stomachs and are still learning to chew.

Can dogs eat celery leaves?

Yes, the leaves are fine to eat. Wash the stalk well first, and cut everything into small pieces.

Can dogs eat celery every day?

Small amounts are fine most days, as long as celery and all other treats stay within about 10 percent of your dog’s daily calories.

Is celery good for overweight dogs?

Yes, celery is a good light treat for dogs that need to manage their weight. It is very low in calories and high in water and fibre. It does not cause weight loss on its own.

Can dogs eat raw celery?

Yes, raw celery is fine as long as it is washed and cut into bite-size pieces. Lightly steamed celery is also fine.

Sources

American Kennel Club — Fruits and Vegetables Dogs Can or Can’t Eat and Which Human Foods Can Dogs Eat and Which Are Dangerous?. ASPCA — People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets.

This page was reviewed for accuracy against AKC and ASPCA guidance. It is general information only and is not a substitute for veterinary advice. If your dog has a health condition or eats something you are worried about, ask your vet.

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