Can Dogs Eat Cucumbers?

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3 min read
3 min read

Updated - Oct 15th, 2022

Key Points:

  • Yes, dogs can safely eat cucumbers, making for a low-calorie treat.
  • Cucumbers provide dogs with vitamins K, C, and B1, as well as potassium.
  • Some dogs may not like cucumbers due to their high water content and crunchiness.
  • Make sure to chop cucumbers into manageable pieces to prevent choking.
  • Overconsumption can lead to upset stomach in dogs.

Yes, dogs can eat cucumbers so long as they’re chopped into small pieces and eaten in moderation. If you overdo it, your dog may experience tummy upset like vomiting or diarrhea. More importantly – steer clear of pickles! Though they’re cucumbers’ close counterparts, they contain added salts and seasonings that can be toxic to dogs.

The health benefits of cucumbers for dogs

The good news is cucumbers are healthy for both humans and canines alike. They’re packed with water, low in calories, and offer the benefits of: 

  • Vitamin C and other powerful antioxidants
  • Potassium
  • Magnesium
  • Manganese

The crunchy cucumber also provides a moderate fiber supply which can help with gastrointestinal sluggishness and keep things moving!

Best ways to offer cucumbers to your dog

Sliced or cubed: Giving your dog a whole cucumber isn’t a good idea, even for a large dog. Swallowing large pieces can cause choking or an intestinal blockage. Slices or cubes are a better choice.

Dehydrated: For a chewy snack, dehydrated cucumber bits are another option. The hydration properties are gone, but the nutrients aren’t.

Fruit salad: Mix small pieces of cucumbers with any dog-friendly fruit or vegetable to make a tasty fruit salad for your pup!

Pet Pro Tip: If you have a dog that is prone to ‘snacksidents’ – you should consider getting a dog insurance plan as soon as possible. It can help you afford the best care in the future by covering eligible vet bills for digestive illnesses, toxic ingestion, and more.

FAQs

Are cucumber skins safe for my dog to eat?

Cucumber skins carry many nutrients for your pooch, but they can be difficult to digest. Cut cucumbers into bite-sized pieces or thin slices to make digestion easier and eliminate any choking hazards in the process!

What should I watch for when feeding cucumbers to my dog?

Cucumbers’ high water and fiber content can cause gastrointestinal upsets like gas or diarrhea if your dog eats too much. Additionally, dogs that have consumed a milk or dairy product before eating cucumber can also develop a tummy ache or stomach upset. 

Can dogs have allergies to cucumbers?

Most dogs don’t have any reaction or intolerance to cucumbers but watch for excessive itching, tummy upsets, vomiting, diarrhea, or rash. Talk with your vet before you offer your dog any new food.

Is it true cucumbers help freshen stinky dog breath?

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

Are pickles safe too?

Pickles are fermented and include salts, seasonings, and ingredients like garlic or onions that are toxic to your dog. Stick with fresh or dehydrated cucumbers.

Can an overweight dog eat cucumbers?

Yes! The low calories and high water content make cucumber slices an excellent treat for an overweight dog’s daily diet. However, it’s still worth checking in with your vet before introducing any new foods.

Can diabetic dogs eat cucumbers?

Yes, low-calorie cucumbers can be healthy snacks for diabetic dogs. Some studies have shown cucumbers may also be beneficial in fighting diabetes in animals. Cucumbers don’t have starches, which turn into sugar in your dog’s system. And they can help regulate insulin and blood sugar levels. As always, speak with your vet before giving your diabetic dog any new food.

In sum, cucumbers can be a healthy snack for dogs when prepared and served the right way. When in doubt, consult your vet before you give your pooch any new foods.

Safe ways to feed your dog pumpkin

Raw pumpkin: When steamed or roasted and cut into small pieces, raw pumpkin can be a great treat for your dog.

Canned: You can find organic canned pumpkin in the supermarket that only contains fresh pumpkin. Not only is this a healthy addition to your pup’s kibble but is also known to help slow or stop diarrhea in dogs.


DISCLOSURE

Foods that are safe for humans to eat can sometimes be poisonous to pets. Always ask your veterinarian if you're ever unsure whether or not a food is safe for your pet to consume. They will be able to provide you with the most accurate and up-to-date information. Keep in mind that this article is meant to be educational and shouldn't be used as a replacement for professional medical or dietary advice.

Lynn Guthrie

Lynn Guthrie

Writer, Mom of a Fab Fur Fam of Five
Lynn is a writer and long-time Learning & Development Manager at a large PNW retailer. She's also mom to 3 dogs & 2 cats!
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