Can dogs eat cucumber?

Sarah_Taufiq · June 10, 2021, 12:18pm

Can dogs eat cucumbers? Yes, dogs can eat cucumbers. Just as it is for humans, cucumbers are a healthy, low-calorie treat that your dog will love. Cucumbers are especially good for dogs that need to lose weight, as their low-calorie content offers some rewards without the rolls. Cucumbers also have high water content. This crunchy vegetable is actually 96 percent water, which makes it a tasty and hydrating summer treat after a vigorous walk. Though the general rule is that, your dog should only be given cucumber in moderation.

Is Cucumber Safe for Dogs to Eat?

Cucumbers are perfectly safe for dogs to eat, and offer a low-calorie, crunchy snack that many dogs love. Cucumbers only contain about 8 calories per one-half cup of slices, compared to the 40 calories in a single medium Milk-Bone biscuit, and are very low in sodium and fat. According to Dr. Karen Becker, 15-25% of a healthy dog’s diet should be fruits or vegetables, and a cucumber is a great option! They can even help keep your pet hydrated on hot summer days due to their high water content. Your dog may find the satisfying crunch and juicy texture of a perfectly ripe cucumber just as thrilling as a biscuit or shop-bought treat, so cucumbers make a great, healthy alternative for training treats, too.

The crunchy cucumber also provides a moderate supply of fiber, making it excellent protection against gastrointestinal sluggishness.

Is Cucumber Healthy for My Dog?

Yes. Fresh cucumbers are about 96% water and are a delightfully crunchy way to stay hydrated on a hot day. They also contain vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and magnesium, all important components of a healthy canine diet.

However, pickled cucumbers (and other pickled veggies) are packed with salt and often contain other ingredients that are no-nos for dogs, such as garlic or onion.

So skip the pickles and stick to the fresh veggies.

Are there risks to feeding cucumbers to my dog?

There are very few risks that come with cucumbers. The seeds and skin are not toxic to your dog, but there are some precautions about how much you should offer them.
As with anything you offer your dog besides their daily diet, treats should only be 10% of their daily calories. This is also true for a fruit or vegetable low in calories.
The dog food your dog eats has been scientifically proven to provide all their daily nutritional needs. Treats are just a supplement to a balanced diet.
Fresh cucumbers bought commercially can have added waxes to the skin. Be sure to wash this off with water to make it safer for your dog.
The high water and fiber content in cucumbers can cause gastrointestinal upsets like gas or diarrhea if your dog eats too much.
If your dog has a sensitive stomach, you might see a tummy ache when your dog first tries cucumber or eats too much.
Dogs that have consumed milk or dairy product before eating cucumber can also develop a tummy ache or stomach upset.
Most dogs don’t have any reaction or intolerance to this tasty fruit, but whenever you offer your pup a new food, care should be taken to watch for any allergic reactions like excessive itching, tummy upsets, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. And we always recommend talking with your vet before you offer any new food.
Puppies are still developing their immune systems and shouldn’t eat cucumber unless they are fully weaned and safely eating solid foods. To prevent your dog from choking, always cut food down to a manageable size. Feeding a whole cucumber is not advisable. They can be very susceptible to stomach upset, so go slowly with very small amounts at first.

How many cucumbers Can My Dog Eat?

A common recommendation from vets is to follow the 10% rule. Treats, including raw veggies, can make up 10% of the calories in your dog’s diet.

This might mean that you can treat your Papillon to a slender cucumber spear on a hot afternoon, while your German shepherd might get a big scoop of frozen cuke chunks.

Fresh cucumbers are only about 1% sugar by weight, and one cup of chopped cucumbers has about 1 gram of sugar, 1 gram of dietary fiber, and 16 calories. This can make cucumbers a good treatment option for dogs on a reduced-calorie diet or with diabetes.

As a low-calorie food, cucumbers make great training treats and can be used as a topper on your dog’s regular dinner. Go ahead and share a slice from your salad with your pup.

Cucumber Nutrition Facts

Here are some of the nutritional details that you can expect with raw cucumbers (per 100g):

Water	95.52
Energy	15 kcal
Protein	0.65g
Total fat	0.11g
Carbohydrate	3.63g
Fiber	0.5g
Sugars	1.67g
Calcium	16mg
Iron	0.28mg
Potassium	147mg
Sodium	2mg
Vitamin C	2.8mg

Health benefits of cucumbers

Water: Cucumbers are 95% water, making their hydration properties very high.

Calories: The high water and very low sugar content mean this fruit is low calorie, with only 8 calories in a half-cup.

Fiber: The skin or rind of cucumber supplies most of the soluble fiber. This means it soaks up water going through the digestive system. Soluble fiber aids in a food’s movement through your dog’s digestive tract and can improve stool quality.

Vitamin C: This powerful antioxidant searches out and eliminates free-radical molecules that can damage cells. It also supports the immune system by reducing inflammation, fighting some cancers, and reducing cognitive aging.

Vitamin K: This vitamin is needed to aid in blood clotting and coagulation.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine): Regulates energy and carbohydrate metabolism.

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid): This helps with energy production.

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine): Supports red blood cell generation, nervous system function, hormone regulation, and immune response.

Potassium: This important mineral keeps your dog’s kidneys functioning well. It also supports efficient heart function, muscle function, and a healthy digestive system.

Manganese: This micro-mineral supports the metabolizing of proteins and fatty acids. It also supports energy production and the role of ligament and bone maintenance.

Molybdenum: This is a micro-nutrient required for normal cell function. It metabolizes carbohydrates and protects the body against excess copper.

Calcium, Zinc, and Iron: These are present in trace amounts in a cucumber. They’re beneficial in bone growth and integrity and support immune system function.

Because of the high water content in cucumbers, the nutrients are not as dense as some other fruits and veggies like broccoli, strawberries, pumpkin, and blueberries, but they still offer some nutrient value to your dog.

Cucumbers are natural breath fresheners!

Cucumbers provide phytonutrients and phytochemicals that help freshen your dog’s breath. They also destroy the odor-causing bacteria present in the mouth.

However, these crunchy fruits, or any other fruits and veggies, are not a good substitute for a consistent ■■■■ hygiene routine or a dog-approved toothpaste.

How to Prepare Cucumbers for Dogs

Now that you know of all the different ways that cucumbers can benefit your dog, it’s time to figure out the best way to serve this tasty treat to your pup.

1. Choose Organic Cucumber

If you can, it’s always beneficial to opt for organic produce. A lot of non-organic produce still carries trace amounts of harmful pesticides, which can be problematic for you, your dog, and anyone else eating your produce. Choosing organic produce is cleaner and healthier. Also, organic farming is sustainable and environmentally friendly, which makes for a happier planet, as well as a happier pup.

2. Always Wash Your Veggies

It’s important to take the time to wash your fruits and vegetables before you serve them to your dog. Take your cucumber and thoroughly rinse and wash it before serving to clean off any stray germs from the long trip from the farm to the store to your home. Clean food is healthier for both you and your pup!

3. Serve Cucumber Raw or Cooked

You can serve cucumber raw or cooked - it’s completely up to you and what your dog likes. As a general rule, raw cucumber is the simplest and will retain more nutritional value. There is also a bonus of a little crunch that many dogs love. While it’s true that some nutrients are enhanced through certain cooking processes, other nutrients are diminished. It all depends on the cooking method. Just make sure you make the pieces small enough for your pup to eat!

4. Skip the Seasoning!

Cucumbers are good for your pup, but a lot of spices aren’t the best. A lot of seasoning can overpower your pup’s digestive system. Cucumbers are fine plain, but a pickle probably isn’t good for your dog since, in the fermenting process, a cucumber is filled with a lot of sodium and spices. When cooking for your pooch, keep the ingredients whole and simple, as we do at Raw Bistro.

5. Make Cucumber a Special Treat for Your Pup

A cucumber shouldn’t be the only thing your dog eats in a day, but if they’re a huge fan, consider making it a training treat. You can cut cucumber up into small pieces to incentivize your dog to learn a new trick, and feed them something healthy at the same time! It’s an easy way to keep the total amount of fruits and veggies to about 15-20% of your dog’s diet.

Serving Ideas

Combine peeled, chopped cucumber with chunks of cantaloupe, celery, and pear for a refreshing dog-friendly salad side dish
Slice cucumbers into rounds and remove the soft seedy center. Stuff cucumber slices with peanut butter or cream cheese (these make fun creepy “eyeball” treats at Halloween)
Freeze chunks or spears of peeled cucumber for a teething treat for your puppy
Use small pieces of cucumber as low-calorie training treats
Top their regular dog food with small pieces of cucumber for a refreshing meal
Dehydrate slices of cucumber to create a chewy, summery treat

Fruits and Vegetables Your Pet Can Safely Eat

As humans, we all know how important fruits and vegetables are for our health. Abundant in vitamins, minerals, and fiber and low in calories, fruits and veggies are some of the most nutritious things that we can eat. It might also surprise you to know that some of these delicious and nutritious foods can also be beneficial to your pet’s health.

Although many of us like to share household food with our furry friends, not all human food is appropriate or safe for your pet to eat. To help you out, the experienced vets at Avondale Animal Hospital have put together this guide to fruits and veggies your pet can safely enjoy.

Fruits and Vegetables that are Safe for Dogs

Dogs are omnivores, meaning they can eat meat or plant-based food. In fact, most dog kibble is a combination of meat protein and vegetable matter. One way you can enrich your dog’s diet is by adding extra fruits and vegetables on top of their kibble. This can be especially beneficial for dogs suffering from weight problems or diseases, like diabetes. With that said, your canine companion can enjoy the taste and nutritional benefits of a large variety of different fruits and vegetables. Some of the healthiest fruits and veggies for dogs include:

Apples
Yes, dogs can eat apples. Apples are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, as well as fiber for your dog. They are low in protein and fat, making them the perfect snack for senior dogs. Just be sure to remove the seeds and core first. Try them frozen for an icy warm weather snack.

Bananas
Yes, dogs can eat bananas. In moderation, bananas are a great low-calorie treat for dogs. They’re high in potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber, and copper. They are low in cholesterol and sodium, but because of their high sugar content, bananas should be given as a treat, not part of your dog’s main diet.

Blueberries
Yes, dogs can eat blueberries. Blueberries are a superfood rich in antioxidants, which prevent cell damage in humans and canines alike. They’re packed with fiber and phytochemicals as well. Teaching your dog to catch treats in the air? Try blueberries as an alternative to store-bought treats.

Cranberries
Yes, cranberries are safe for dogs to eat. Both cranberries and dried cranberries are safe to feed to dogs in small quantities. Whether your dog will like this tart treat is another question. Either way, moderation is important when feeding cranberries to dogs, as with any treat, as too many cranberries can lead to an upset stomach.

Cucumbers
Yes, dogs can eat cucumbers. Cucumbers are especially good for overweight dogs, as they hold little to no carbohydrates, fats, or oils and they can even boost energy levels. They’re loaded with vitamins K, C, and B1, as well as potassium, copper, magnesium, and biotin.

Cantaloupe
Yes, cantaloupe is safe for dogs. Cantaloupe is packed with nutrients, low in calories, and a great source of water and fiber. It is, however, high in sugar, so should be shared in moderation, especially for dogs who are overweight or have diabetes.

Mango
Yes, dogs can eat mangoes. This sweet summer treat is packed with four different vitamins: A, B6, C, and E. They also have potassium and both beta-carotene and alpha-carotene. As with most fruits, just remember to remove the hard pit first, as it contains small amounts of cyanide and can become a choking hazard. Mango is high in sugar, so use it as an occasional treat.

Oranges
Yes, dogs can eat oranges. Oranges are fine for dogs to eat, according to veterinarians, but they may not be fans of any strong-smelling citrus. Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, and in small quantities, the juicy flesh of an orange can be a tasty treat for your dog. Vets do recommend tossing the peel and only offering your dog the flesh of the orange, minus any seeds. Orange peel is rough on their digestive systems, and the oils may make your dog literally turn up their sensitive nose.

Peaches
Yes, peaches are safe for dogs to eat. Small amounts of cut-up fresh or frozen peaches are a great source of fiber and vitamin A, and can even help fight infections, but just like cherries, the pit contains cyanide. As long as you completely cut around the pit first, fresh peaches can be a great summer treat. Skip canned peaches, as they usually contain high amounts of sugary syrups.

Pears
Yes, dogs can eat pears. Pears are a great snack because they’re high in copper, vitamins C and K, and fiber. It’s been suggested that eating the fruit can reduce the risk of having a stroke by 50 percent. Just be sure to cut pears into bite-size chunks and remove the pit and seeds first, as the seeds contain traces of cyanide. Skip canned pears with sugary syrups.

Pineapple
Yes, pineapple is safe for dogs to eat. A few chunks of pineapple is a great sweet treat for dogs, as long as the prickly outside peel and crown are removed first. The tropical fruit is full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It also contains bromelain, an enzyme that makes it easier for dogs to absorb proteins.

Raspberries
Yes, dogs can eat raspberries. Raspberries are fine in moderation. They contain antioxidants that are great for dogs. They’re low in sugar and calories, but high in fiber, manganese, and vitamin C. Raspberries are especially good for seniors dogs because they have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help aging joints. However, they do contain small amounts of xylitol, so limit your dog to less than a cup of raspberries at a time.

Strawberries
Yes, dogs can eat strawberries. Strawberries are full of fiber and vitamin C. Along with that, they also contain an enzyme that can help whiten your dog’s teeth as he or she eats them. They contain sugar, so be sure to give them in moderation.

Watermelon
Yes, dogs can eat watermelon. It’s important to remove the rind and seeds first, as they can cause intestinal blockage, but watermelon flesh is otherwise safe for dogs. It’s full of vitamin A, B-6, and C, as well as potassium. Watermelon is 92 percent water, so it’s a great way to help keep your dog hydrated on hot summer days.

Broccoli
Yes, broccoli is safe for dogs to eat in very small quantities and is best served as an occasional treat. It is high in fiber and vitamin C and low in fat. However, Broccoli florets contain isothiocyanates, which can cause mild-to-potentially severe gastric irritation in some dogs. Furthermore, broccoli stalks have been known to obstruct the esophagus.

Brussels sprouts
Yes, dogs can eat Brussels sprouts. Brussels sprouts are loaded with nutrients and antioxidants that are great for humans and dogs, alike. Don’t overfeed them to your dog, however, because they can cause lots of gas. Cabbage is also safe for dogs, but comes with the same gassy warning!

Carrots
Yes, dogs can eat carrots. Carrots are an excellent low-calorie snack that is high in fiber and beta-carotene, which produces vitamin A. Plus, crunching on this orange veggie is great for your dog’s teeth (and fun).

Celery
Yes, celery is safe for dogs to eat. In addition to vitamins A, B, and C, this crunchy green snack contains the nutrients needed to promote a healthy heart and even fight cancer. As if that wasn’t enough, celery is also known to freshen doggy breath.

Green beans
Yes, dogs can eat green beans. Chopped, steamed, raw, or canned – all types of green beans are safe for dogs to eat, as long as they are plain. Green beans are full of important vitamins and minerals and they’re also full of fiber and low in calories. Opt for low-salt or no-salt products if you’re feeding canned green beans to your dog.

Peas
Yes, dogs can eat peas. Green peas, snow peas, sugar snap peas, and garden or English peas are all OK for dogs to find in their bowl on occasion. Peas have several vitamins, minerals, and are rich in protein and high in fiber. You can feed your dog fresh or frozen peas, but avoid canned peas with added sodium.

Spinach
Yes, dogs can eat spinach, but it’s not one of the top vegetables you’ll want to be sharing with your pup. Spinach is high in oxalic acid, which blocks the body’s ability to absorb calcium and can lead to kidney damage. While your dog would probably have to eat a very large amount of spinach to have this problem, it might be best to go with another vegetable.

Fruits and Vegetables that are NOT safe for Dogs

While there is a range of fruits and veggies that are safe for your dog to consume, some varieties can also be toxic. Some of the most popular fruits and veggies that you should avoid feeding your dog include garlic, onion, mushroom, avocado, and rhubarb. If you are unsure if your pet should be eating something, make sure you ask one of our vets, and we will be happy to answer any questions regarding your pet’s health and nutrition.

Avocado
No, dogs should not eat avocado. While avocado may be a healthy snack for dog owners, it should not be given to dogs at all. The pit, skin, and leaves of avocados contain persin, a toxin that often causes vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. The fleshy inside of the fruit doesn’t have as much persin as the rest of the plant, but it is still too much for dogs to handle.

Cherries
No, dogs should not eat cherries. Except for the fleshy part around the seed, cherry plants contain cyanide and are toxic to dogs. Cyanide disrupts cellular oxygen transport, which means that your dog’s blood cells can’t get enough oxygen. If your dog eats cherries, be on the lookout for dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, and red gums, as these may be signs of cyanide poisoning.

Grapes
No, dogs should never eat grapes. Grapes and raisins (dried grapes) have proved to be very toxic for dogs no matter the dog’s breed, sex, or age. In fact, grapes are so toxic that they can lead to acute sudden kidney failure. Always be mindful of this dangerous fruit for dogs.

Tomatoes
No, dogs should avoid tomatoes. While the ripened fruit of the tomato plant is generally considered safe for dogs, the green parts of the plant contain a toxic substance called solanine. While a dog would need to eat a large amount of the tomato plant to make him or her sick, it’s better to skip tomatoes all together just to be safe.

Asparagus
No, dogs should not eat asparagus. While asparagus isn’t necessarily unsafe for dogs, there’s really no point in giving it to them. It’s too tough to be eaten raw, and by the time you cook it down so it’s soft enough for dogs to eat, asparagus loses the nutrients it contains. If you really want to share a veggie, something more beneficial is probably best.

Mushrooms
No, dogs should avoid mushrooms. Wild mushrooms can be toxic for dogs. While only 50-100 of the 50,000 mushroom species worldwide are known to be toxic, the poisonous ones can really hurt your dog or even lead to death. Washed white mushrooms from the supermarket could be OK, but it’s better to be safe than sorry; skip the fungi for Fido altogether.

Onions
No, dogs should never eat onions. Onions, leeks, and chives are part of a family of plants called Allium that is poisonous to most pets, especially cats. Eating onions can cause your dog’s red blood cells to rupture, and can also cause vomiting, diarrhea, stomach pain, and nausea. Poisoning from onions is more serious in Japanese breeds of dogs like Akitas and Shiba Inus, but all dogs are very susceptible to it.

Human Foods That Can Be Fatal to Dogs

Xylitol

Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that is often used to sweeten candy, chewing gum, toothpaste, and baked goods. While deemed safe for human consumption, it can be deadly for dogs.

Eating foods that contain xylitol can lead to a sudden and significant drop in a dog’s blood sugar

Initial symptoms often show up within 30 minutes of consumption and include vomiting, weakness, depression, difficulty moving, coma and seizures. Eventually, xylitol can lead to liver damage and death.

Coffee, Tea and Other Caffeine

Caffeine is naturally found in coffee, tea, cocoa, and guarana, a South American plant.

It is also often added to soft drinks and medications. Caffeine can speed the heart rate and stimulate the nervous system in dogs.

Within two to four hours of consuming caffeine, dogs may experience restlessness, excessive thirst, a lack of bladder control, vomiting, and diarrhea.

If dogs ingest too much caffeine, they can experience abnormal heart rhythm or lung failure, which can ultimately lead to death.

Grapes and Raisins

Grapes and raisins can be extremely toxic to dogs.

They can cause rapid kidney failure, which can ultimately be fatal.

Alcohol

Alcohol is found in various products, including alcoholic beverages and perfumes mouthwash, paint, varnish, and various cleaning products. While occasional alcohol consumption is safe for humans, dogs cannot tolerate it, even in small amounts.

Symptoms usually develop within an hour after consumption and include tiredness, depression, and lack of muscle coordination, low body temperature, poor breathing, vomiting, and diarrhea.

If a dog consumes too much alcohol, it can result in lung failure, seizures, coma, and even death.

Chocolate

Chocolate contains the stimulant chemicals theobromine and caffeine, both of which are very difficult for dogs to metabolize. If a dog eats chocolate, it can cause stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration.

These symptoms can also progress to more serious problems like heart attacks, internal bleeding, muscle tremors, seizures, and death

Salt

Eating too much salt could lead to a condition known as salt poisoning or water deprivation in dogs. This can cause vomiting, diarrhea, depression, tremors, fever, and seizures. It may even be fatal in severe cases.

What to Do If Your Dog Eats a Harmful Food

The best way to ensure your dog doesn’t eat anything harmful is to keep these foods out of reach. To minimize the risk, make sure that you don’t leave these foods on countertops or tables, in purses, or in other places where your dog could access them.

If you know your dog has ingested something toxic, consult your veterinarian immediately or call the pet poison hotline.

Treatment will vary depending upon your dog’s symptoms and the type of food they were exposed to. You should never treat or medicate a dog unless a licensed veterinarian advises you to do so.

Frequently Asked Questions

1- How many cucumbers can a dog eat?

Cucumbers are perfectly safe for dogs to eat, and offer a low-calorie, crunchy snack that many dogs love. Cucumbers only contain about 8 calories per one-half cup of slices, compared to the 40 calories in a single medium Milk-Bone biscuit, and are very low in sodium and fat.

2- Is cucumber skin OK for dogs?

The skin and seeds of a cucumber can be upsetting to a dog’s stomach, so removing those items could help a more sensitive dog enjoy this veggie. Chomping on whole cucumbers can be a choking hazard. If your dog likes to wolf down her food, chop the veggies into a manageable size.

3- What do cucumbers do for dogs?

Cucumber slices are an excellent treat for your dog, as they are 95% water. They can help to keep your beloved pup hydrated, especially on a hot summer’s day! They’re low in sodium, fat, and they’re the perfect training or outing treats! They also boost vitamin C.

4- Can dogs eat tuna?

Tuna is not toxic to dogs, and a tiny amount will not cause mercury poisoning. If you own both a dog and a cat, make sure your pup isn’t eating the feline’s food, as wet cat food often contains tuna. Cats are also susceptible to mercury poisoning, so consider choosing a cat food made with other kinds of fish

5- Can dogs eat cheese?

The cheese itself isn’t poisonous or toxic to dogs (except blue cheese, see below). But some cheeses do have added ingredients that could cause dog harm, such as onion, garlic, herbs, or other additions. Cheese can be given as an occasional treat in moderation, alongside a healthy diet.

6- Can dogs eat boiled eggs?

Eggs are perfectly safe for dogs, Eggs are a great source of nutrition for your canine companion. They are high in protein, fatty acids, vitamins, and fatty acids that help support your dog inside and out

7- Can dogs have peanut butter?

Yes, dogs can eat peanut butter as long as it is fed in moderation and does not contain xylitol, so gets out that peanut butter jar and share the good news

8- Is bread bad for dogs?

Plain white or whole-grain bread is safe for most dogs to eat as an occasional treat. Before feeding your dog bread, make sure it doesn’t contain any extra ingredients, such as raisins, which could be potentially harmful.

9- Is olive oil good for dogs?

It sure is! Extra virgin olive oil is an excellent source of monounsaturated fats, antioxidants, and omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids. That means the same olive oil that’s good for you can be just as good for your furry friend.

10- What meat should dogs avoid?

The bones in meat, chicken, and fish can also be very hazardous to your dog. They can splinter and stick in the throat, break teeth or cut the intestines. If you are unsure if you can feed food to your dog, always consult your veterinarian first.

CONCLUSION:

Dogs can eat cucumbers. Just as it is for humans, cucumbers are a healthy, low-calorie treat that your dog will love. They can even help keep your pet hydrated on hot summer days due to their high water content. Your dog may find the satisfying crunch and juicy texture of a perfectly ripe cucumber just so thrilling.