Owners of dogs enjoy giving healthy snacks to their pets. However, with the number of human foods that are not safe to pets, one would want to know the safe ones. Cucumber is one of the food that people frequently enquire about. The good news? Cucumbers are also safe to dogs and can even be a healthy refreshing snack should they be served the right way.
It is a guide that dissects all the information that dog owners need to know, such as the benefits, risks, serving tips, and comparing cucumbers to the other dog-friendly vegetables.
What Makes Cucumber Safe for Dogs?
Cucumbers are mostly composed of water, in fact, 95% water. This is very low-calorie and also makes them hydrating, which is very good in dogs when it is used sparingly.
Low in Calories
Cucumbers are a great substitute in the form of a snack among overweight or weight gain dogs. Numerous snacks available commercially contain a lot of fat or sodium, whereas cucumbers are a snack with practically no calories.
Hydrating and Refreshing
Cucumbers contain a lot of water and can therefore maintain the hydration of your dog- particularly in hot summers when animals are more likely to overheat or dehydrate.
Non-Toxic and Safe
Cucumbers do not poison dogs, and thus they are a better choice than such vegetables as onions, garlic, or avocado, which are harmful to dogs.
Health Benefits of Cucumbers for Dogs
Although cucumbers are not supposed to substitute the normal dog food, they can provide a number of nutritional values.
Vitamins and Minerals
Cucumbers are low sources of vitamins and minerals that are beneficial to the dog such as:
- Vitamin K – helps to keep the bones healthy.
- Vitamin C – aids immune health.
- Potassium – promotes the work of the heart and muscles.
- Magnesium – needed in metabolism and nerve health.
Even though cucumbers do not have such high amounts of these nutrients, it gives one a good boost.
Supports Weight Management
Obesity in pets is an emerging menace among dogs. Cucumbers are low-calorie and low-carb foods that are good training snacks or snack substitutes to dogs that are trying to lose some weight.
Freshens Breath
Eating cucumbers freshens the breath of some dogs because it contains water and is crunchy. Though they will not substitute dog toothpaste, they may be used to eliminate mild odor of the mouth.
Good for Sensitive Stomachs
A cucumber can be served in its raw form without causing any damage to the digestive system of most dogs unlike fatty or highly seasoned snacks that are available to humans.
Are There Risks to Feeding Dogs Cucumbers?
Cucumbers are mostly safe, but there are a few precautions associated with cucumbers.
Choking Hazard
Dogs may not chew large pieces of cucumber particularly:
- Small breeds
- Puppies
- Elderly dogs with issues with their teeth.
Always slice cucumbers into thin slices or small pieces in order to minimize the risk of choking.
Too Much Can Cause Digestive Upset
Even though cucumbers are not harmful; excessive feeding at the same time can cause:
- Gas
- Diarrhea
- Upset stomach.
It should be moderated–at least in the case of dogs which are not accustomed to raw vegetables.
Avoid Pickles
This is a big one:
Pickles do not make a good alternative to cucumbers.
Most pickles contain:
- Salt
- Vinegar
- Spices
- Seasonings
- Garlic or onion (sometimes).
These are dangerous ingredients to dogs. Use plain cucumber, fresh and plain only.
Pesticide Exposure
When you purchase cucumber at the grocery store, you should always wash them before buying them. Others might have traces of pesticides or the wax coating. Exposure can also be minimized by peeling the cucumber.
How to Safely Feed Cucumbers to Dogs
Serve Fresh and Plain
Dogs are only supposed to eat cucumbers which are:
- Unseasoned
- Unsalted
- Unspiced
- Not pickled
- No dressing or dips mixed.
Cut into Dog-Friendly Pieces
The safest cuts of most dogs are:
- Small thin slices (good with small dogs)
- Medium to large dogs Quartered sticks
- Small cubes (good to train treats)
Start with Small Portions
To ensure that your dog takes cucumber, start with:
- 1-2 small slices for small dogs
- 3-4 slices for medium breeds
- A few bits to big dogs.
Watch your dog and see whether it has stomach upsets and then feed it more.
Use as a Low-Calorie Training Treat
When you are training your dog and you do not want to consume so many calories, you can use cucumbers instead of standard dog treats. Nevertheless, remember that not all dogs can be motivated with the help of non-meat-based treats.
Keep the Skin On or Remove It Depending on Your Dog
The skin of cucumber is not harmful, yet it may be too rough to be digested by certain dogs. In case your dog has a delicate stomach you may wish to peel off the cucumber.
Which Dogs Shouldn’t Eat Cucumbers?
Majority of the dogs are safe with cucumbers, however, there are some exceptions:
Dogs with Kidney Issues
Cucumbers are sources of potassium. Dogs that have kidney disease or potassium limitations should consult with a vet before being introduced to cucumbers.
Dogs with Food Allergies
Even though this is not common, there are dogs that are allergic to cucumbers.
Symptoms may include:
- Itchy skin
- Redness around the mouth
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea.
In case your dog develops allergic signs, then you should cease feeding your dog cucumbers and contact your veterinarian.
Dogs Prone to Digestive Problems
In case your dog regularly experiences gastrointestinal problems, add cucumbers gradually and observe the reactions.
Can Dogs Eat Cucumber Seeds?
Yes, dogs are able to eat cucumber seeds. The seeds are soft and safe. But when feeding a small dog or puppy, it is possible to remove the seeds and make the digestion easier.
Can Dogs Eat Cucumber Peel?
Yes, the peel is safe.
However:
- There are dogs that cannot digest the harder skin.
- Cucumbers that are covered with wax can lead to mild stomach problems.
To be on the safe side, you may peel the cucumber or wash it.
Cucumbers vs. Other Dog-Friendly Vegetables
The following is the comparison of cucumbers against other popular vegetables:
Carrots
- Higher in vitamins
- Good for dental health
- Calories Cucumbers have fewer calories than tomatoes.
Green Beans
- Great for weight loss
- More fiber
- More filling.
Celery
- Crunchy and hydrating
- Contains vitamin K
- Not tender taste, they do not like it.
Zucchini
- Nutritious
- Mild flavor
- A little high in calories as compared to cucumber.
All in all, cucumbers are a very low-calorie choice, and they do not contain the same number of nutrients as some of the alternatives. They are better taken as a cool snack and not as a source of nutrients.
Fun Ways to Serve Cucumbers to Dogs
The following are some dog friendly serving suggestions:
Frozen Cucumber Bites
Perfect for hot days. Cut cucumbers and freeze them and serve as a snack.
Cucumber and Watermelon Mix
Two water foods that are a favorite of dogs-do not use the seeds or rinds of watermelon.
Training Cubes
Prepare cucumbers in small cubes and train using them.
Cucumber Puree
Adding moisture and texture to the kibble of your dog, blend cucumbers and add a spoonful.
How Often Can Dogs Eat Cucumbers?
A good guideline is:
Daily calorie consumption should not be exceeded by 10 percent of the day.
Most dogs do not need many slices of cucumber a few times a week.
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