Dog Health

Can Dogs Eat Celery? Benefits, Risks & How to Feed It Safely

Is celery safe for dogs? Learn the benefits, risks, and how to serve celery to your dog. Plus, when to speak to an online vet - online consults from $49.
Author: Veterinary Team
Dial A Vet
Updated
May 23, 2025
|
Published
May 23, 2025
Can Dogs Eat Celery? Benefits, Risks

Video Call an Aussie Vet now for just $49 AUD

Dial A Vet is available in Australia, NZ, Canada, United States & Canada!
Speak to A Vet Now

Can Dogs Eat Celery?

Yes — dogs can eat celery in moderation. Celery is low in calories and high in fibre, making it a healthy snack for many dogs. But like all human foods, it needs to be served the right way to avoid choking or digestive issues.

In this guide, we’ll cover:

  • Is celery safe for dogs?
  • Nutritional benefits of celery
  • How to prepare celery for your dog
  • Risks and when to avoid it
  • How much celery is too much
  • When to speak to a vet

🥬 Is Celery Safe for Dogs?

Yes, celery is generally safe for dogs to eat, as long as it’s:

  • Cut into small, bite-sized pieces
  • Given in moderation
  • Introduced slowly if it’s their first time

Both raw and cooked celery can be fed to dogs — but raw is more common and retains more nutrients.

🥕 Nutritional Benefits of Celery for Dogs

Celery is a hydrating, low-fat, low-calorie vegetable — which makes it a popular treat for dogs who need to lose weight or avoid rich snacks.

Nutrients in celery that may benefit dogs:

  • Vitamin A – for skin and eye health
  • Vitamin C – supports immune function
  • Vitamin K – helps with blood clotting
  • Fibre – supports digestion
  • Water – keeps your dog hydrated (celery is 95% water)

Some vets even recommend celery as a healthy treat for dogs with weight issues, as long as it’s part of a balanced diet.

🚫 Risks of Feeding Celery to Dogs

While celery is non-toxic to dogs, there are a few risks to be aware of:

1. Choking Hazard

Celery stalks are stringy and fibrous. If not chopped up properly, they can get lodged in a dog’s throat — especially in small breeds or enthusiastic eaters.

Tip: Always cut celery into small, manageable pieces.

2. Digestive Upset

Too much celery can cause:

  • Gas
  • Bloating
  • Loose stools
  • Upset stomach

Start with a small piece and monitor your dog for any signs of discomfort.

3. Pesticide Exposure

Celery is one of the most pesticide-sprayed vegetables. Wash it thoroughly, or choose organic when possible.

🍽️ How to Safely Serve Celery to Dogs

Celery can be served:

  • Raw: Fresh and chopped into small bits
  • Cooked: Lightly steamed (no oil or seasoning)
  • Blended: Into dog-friendly smoothies or frozen treats
  • Mixed: Into kibble for texture and hydration

You can even mix celery with a teaspoon of plain peanut butter as a treat — just make sure the peanut butter is xylitol-free (xylitol is toxic to dogs).

📏 How Much Celery Can My Dog Eat?

As a rule of thumb, treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily diet.

General portion guidelines:

  • Small dogs: 1–2 small pieces
  • Medium dogs: 2–4 pieces
  • Large dogs: A few bite-sized chunks (up to ¼ cup)

Feed celery occasionally — not daily — and always monitor how your dog reacts.

❓ Can All Dogs Eat Celery?

While most healthy dogs can enjoy celery, it’s not right for every pup.

Avoid giving celery if your dog:

  • Has kidney issues (celery is high in sodium and water)
  • Is prone to gas or digestive issues
  • Is a brachycephalic breed (e.g. Pugs, Bulldogs) that may choke easily
  • Is under 3 months old

Always introduce new foods one at a time — and in small amounts.

🐶 Can Puppies Eat Celery?

Yes, but with caution.

Puppies have sensitive stomachs and small airways. If you want to give a puppy celery:

  • Cook or steam it
  • Mash or finely chop it
  • Only give a tiny amount to test tolerance

If you notice vomiting, gas, or diarrhoea, stop immediately.

🩺 When to Speak to a Vet

Speak to a vet if your dog:

  • Chokes on celery or coughs after eating it
  • Has diarrhoea, vomiting, or unusual behaviour afterward
  • Has kidney issues or food allergies
  • Eats a large amount of celery and seems uncomfortable

Some dogs have sensitivities that make celery — or even healthy foods — an issue.

🩺 You can chat with a licensed vet from anywhere for just $49 at Dial A Vet. Fast, affordable, no stress.

✅ Key Takeaways

  • Dogs can eat celery in moderation — it’s a crunchy, low-calorie treat
  • Always cut it into small pieces to prevent choking
  • Introduce slowly, and avoid overfeeding
  • Monitor your dog for signs of digestive upset
  • Don’t replace balanced nutrition with human foods
  • When in doubt, ask a vet

🐾 Final Thoughts

Celery is a healthy, hydrating snack that most dogs can enjoy — if it’s served the right way. Whether you’re helping your dog lose weight, looking for treat alternatives, or just wondering what’s safe to share from the fridge, celery is a great option in small amounts.

Got questions about your dog’s diet or digestive health?

🩺 Book a consultation with a vet today for just $49 at Dial A Vet. No waiting room. No guesswork.

While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of this content - including vet review where applicable - this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If your pet is unwell or you are concerned, please speak with a licensed veterinarian. You can book a $49 online consultation with our veterinary team  😄
Speak to A Vet Now

🐾 You Might Also Like

📈 Popular Pet Topics Right Now

🧠 Ask A Vet Questions and Answers
Does my boy need to go to the ER/should I take precautions?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
What's going on with these lions in the Kruger National Park?
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Stanky legged dog (Limp post injury)
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Abdominal hernia after spay (dog)
Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐