Celery is a vegetable with long petioles, meaty and succulent that are known by the name of stalks. They may be eaten raw in salads or alone, fried, boiled, with sauces and as a condiment for soups, stews, etc.

Celery is a biennial plant that is primarily grown for its thick stalk. It belongs to the Apiaceae family, which also includes parsley, carrots, and fennel. Celery leaves are pinnate to bipinnate, with rhombic leaflets 3-6 cm long and 2-4 cm wide. The flowers are creamy-white, 2-3 mm in diameter, and are produced in dense compound umbels. Modern cultivars have been selected for either solid petioles, leaf stalks, or a large hypocotyl. Wild celery, Apium graveolens var. graveolens, grows up to 1 meter tall and occurs around the globe.

Celery is usually eaten cooked as a vegetable or as a delicate flavouring in a variety of stocks, casseroles, and soups. In the United States, raw celery is served by itself or with spreads or dips as an appetizer and in salads. The tiny seedlike fruits, known as celery seeds, resemble the plant itself in taste and aroma and are used as a seasoning, particularly in soups and pickles.

Unlike cats, which are obligate carnivores, dogs are omnivores which means they can eat a mix of meats along with vegetables and fruits.

Celery is the perfect food if you’re looking for healthy treat options for your dog. This delicious vegetable is packed with vitamins and minerals such as vitamins A, C, and K, as well as potassium, manganese, and folate, all of which are necessary for your dog’s overall well-being

Although celery is considered to be safe for dogs, every pup is different. Some dogs will love munching on this green vegetable, while others won’t even care if it exists. Similarly, certain dogs can eat it in moderation without any problems, while other pets will end up with an upset stomach. 

If your dog is overweight, make sure to consult your veterinarian about a proper diet, portion sizes, exercise, and any other changes to your dog’s diet or routine.

The question has always been, can dogs eat celery? In this article, we will put you through all you need to know.

Read Also: Can Dogs Eat Mustard? Find Out

Nutritional Value Of Celery

Macronutrients, or macros, are essential nutrients the body needs in large quantities to remain healthy. Macronutrients provide the body with energy, help prevent disease, and allow the body to function correctly. 

There are three main types of macronutrients: proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Celery is low in all three macronutrients. One cup of chopped celery contains only 3 grams of carbohydrates, 0.7 grams of protein, and virtually no fat.

Micronutrients are nutrients that the body needs in smaller amounts but are still essential for good health. Micronutrients are essential dietary elements required by organisms in varying quantities throughout life to orchestrate a range of physiological functions to maintain health. 

Micronutrient requirements differ between organisms; for example, humans and other animals require numerous vitamins and dietary minerals, whereas plants require specific minerals.

Vitamin K: Also known as the ‘blood clotting’ nutrient, vitamin K is important for healing, bone health and eyesight. One cup of chopped celery contains 29% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin K.

Vitamin K is an essential nutrient and one of four fat-soluble vitamins (including A, D and E). There are two main kinds of vitamin K — vitamin K1 (phylloquinone) found in plants like leafy green vegetables, and vitamin K2 (menaquinone), which is naturally produced in the intestine. 

Vitamin C: Vitamin C is an essential vitamin that must be consumed in the diet. Good sources include fresh fruits and vegetables, especially citrus fruits. Vitamin C is a strong antioxidant that can boost your blood antioxidant levels. This may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease.

Dogs can greatly benefit from vitamin C supplementation if needed. Since dogs already naturally produce vitamin C, they don’t need as much vitamin C as a human does. One cup of chopped celery contains 5% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin C. This vitamin is important for immune function and skin health.

Potassium: Potassium is a chemical element with the symbol K and atomic number 19.Foods that are rich in potassium are important in managing high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, because potassium lessens the effects of sodium. The more potassium you eat, the more sodium you lose through urine.

Potassium is a primary electrolyte for dogs, which means it has many jobs in the canine body. One cup of chopped celery contains 8% of the recommended daily intake of potassium.

Folate: Folate is a naturally occurring form of vitamin B9, which people get from their food. Dark leafy greens, beef liver, and oranges are all good sources of folate. It is important for cell growth and development. One cup of chopped celery contains 9% of the recommended daily intake of folate. 

Calcium: Calcium is a chemical element with the symbol Ca and atomic number 20. Calcium is a mineral most often associated with healthy bones and teeth, although it also plays an important role in blood clotting

The recommended calcium intake for healthy adult dogs is 50 mg per kilogram of body weight. One cup of chopped celery contains 4% of the recommended daily intake of calcium which is important for bone health and muscle function.

Magnesium: Magnesium is a chemical element with the symbol Mg and atomic number 12. Magnesium is a mineral that’s crucial to the body’s function. Magnesium helps keep blood pressure normal, bones strong, and the heart rhythm steady.

Magnesium helps move blood sugar into your muscles and dispose of lactate, which can build up during exercise and cause fatigue. 

Studies show magnesium supplements may be particularly beneficial for improving exercise performance in older adults and those with a deficiency in this nutrient. One cup of chopped celery contains 3% of the recommended daily intake of magnesium. 

In summary, celery also contains several antioxidants, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and phytosterols which helps to protect your cells from damage.

Benefits Of Celery For Dogs

Celery is a vegetable that is low in calories and high in nutrients, making it a healthy snack for dogs. Some of the potential celery juice benefits are listed below:

1. Low in calories: Because of its high water content, celery is very low in calories. It’s also very recommendable for dogs that want to lose weight or maintain their weight, and because it’s high in fibre, it will help the dog feel satisfied for a longer period of time and helps them not to overeat. 

One cup of diced celery is said to have only 14 calories, with about 1.5 grams of fibre. This makes it an excellent addition to salads or soups if you are on a weight-loss diet.

2.  It prevents liver diseases: Celery leaves and stalks are high in antioxidant which helps to fight inflammation in the body. With celery, many liver diseases like cirrhosis, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, etc. can be prevented and managed. 

Studies show that celery helps reduce fat build-up in the liver. The nutrients in celery protect the liver, and actually, help the liver produce enzymes that help flush fat and toxins out.

The polyphenols present in celery leaves and stalks also speed up the activity of antioxidant enzymes in the body, which in turn help minimize the risk of liver damage.

3. High in vitamins and minerals: Getting enough micronutrients throughout the day is crucial to maintaining good health and feeling satisfied with your meals. Celery is rich in several vitamins and minerals that are important for dogs, including vitamin K, vitamin C, folate, calcium, and potassium. These nutrients can help support bone health, immune function, and heart health.

4. Good for digestion: The high fibre content in celery can help regulate digestion and prevent constipation in dogs. When your digestive tract is out of working order, this issue can bleed into various aspects of your physical and mental well-being. 

Poor digestion and gut issues can lead to bloating, constipation, nausea, and even mood instability, depression, and anxiety. The crunchy texture of celery can also help clean teeth and massage gums, promoting good oral health.

Pectin-based polysaccharides in celery, including a compound known as apiuman, have been shown to decrease instances of stomach ulcers, improve the lining of the stomach, and modulate stomach secretions in animal studies.

5. Anti-inflammatory:  Inflammation in the body can lead to many chronic problems such as poor digestion, joint pain, heart problems, diabetes, and so on. 

Inflammation is one of the most common causes of discomfort and has been directly linked to illnesses such as osteoporosis and arthritis, which drastically affect mobility and quality of life. 

Celery contains several compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties, including flavonoids and phenolic acids.

6. Diuretic: A diuretic is any substance that promotes diuresis, the increased production of urine and flush out toxins from the body. This can be beneficial for dogs with urinary tract infections or other urinary issues. Celery helps you expel water from your body without also losing a lot of potassium. 

7. It may keep your kidneys healthy:  celery is considered a kidney tonic and can promote kidney health.  Celery extract has a better ability to break down kidney stones than apigenin

Celery juice is also helpful in retaining water in the body and eliminating excess calcium deposits from the body through urine. This in turn prevents gallstones, atherosclerosis, kidney stones, and so on. 

8. It keeps the skin younger looking: Celery juices include a variety of nourishing vitamins, including skin vitamin A, that can help decrease wrinkles and give you the smoother, younger-looking skin you desire. 

Apigenin, tannin, luteolin, kaempferol, and saponin are antioxidants present in celery juice that help fight inflammation and delay the early signs of ageing such as wrinkles, fine lines, etc. So, if you want to rejuvenate your skin, add celery to your diet. 

Also, one of celery juice’s most exciting factors is that it is touted to promote clear skin by banishing inflammation and active blemishes

8. Low in fat: Celery is a low-fat snack that can be a good alternative to high-fat treats for 

dogs. A cup of chopped celery contains Calories: 14. Protein: Less than 1 gram. Fat: Less than 1 gram.

It is also low in cholesterol, which can be beneficial for dogs with heart or liver issues.

9. Hydrating: Celery is high in water content, which can help keep dogs hydrated and prevent dehydration. Dehydration can cause many problems like lightheadedness, dizziness, fatigue, dry mouth, and so on. Celery helps a lot and can be especially beneficial for dogs who are active or who live in hot climates.

Celery has about the same amount of potassium as a banana. Potassium is an electrolyte that keeps your dog hydrated while also helping to avoid muscle cramping.

Read Also: Can Dogs Eat Shortbread Cookies?

How To Safely Feed Dogs Celery

When introducing celery into your dog’s diet, it’s important to follow these guidelines:

1. Start small: as a dog owner, if you are giving your dog celery for the first time, it’s advisable to start by giving them a small piece of it and watch how they react to it. Some dogs may be allergic to celery or may not like the taste or texture of celery while some may like it. So watch out for reactions and know when to involve a veterinarian.

2. Cut it up: you have to prevent your dogs from choking by cutting the celery into small pieces, not slicing them may get stuck in your dog’s throat. 

3. Wash it thoroughly: Before washing celery, first, remove any rubber bands or ties that are holding the stalks together. This will allow you to wash each stalk thoroughly, wash it well to remove any dirt and prevent your dogs from bacteria. If you’re opting for vinegar instead of water, we recommend using a ratio of 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water

4. Don’t add seasoning: Do not add any seasoning or salt to the celery. Dogs do not need seasoning and flavouring because it can be harmful to their health.

5. Monitor your dog: After giving your dog celery, monitor them for any signs of digestive issues or allergic reactions. If your dog experiences vomiting, diarrhoea, or other symptoms, stop giving them celery and contact your veterinarian.

6. Use it as a treat: Celery is low in calories and mainly a content of water, it should not be the main component of your dog’s diet. Use celery as a treat and do not replace it with a balanced diet.

Other Safe Food And Vegetable Options 

There are many other healthy and nutritious foods that you can add to your dog’s diet in addition to celery. Some alternatives to celery include:

1. Carrots: Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, and beta-carotene, which produces vitamin A. Plus, crunching on this orange root vegetable is great for your dog’s teeth.  Dogs can safely eat either raw carrots or cooked carrots. In fact, each part of the carrot is considered safe for your dog to consume

2. Green beans: Green beans are rich in dietary fibre as well as vitamins like vitamin C and A, which both support your dog’s immune health. They are also a good source of vitamin C and vitamin K.

3. Sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes are a good source of fibre and vitamins A and C. Compared to white potatoes, sweet potatoes are more versatile, lower in starch, and non-toxic if your dog accidentally ingests them raw.

4. Apples: Apples are a good source of fibre and vitamin C, and they are also low in calories.  apples are totally safe for your dog to eat, it’s important to only give them to your dog in moderation.

5. Blueberries: Blueberries are a good source of antioxidants and vitamin C. They can help maintain healthy bones, reduce blood pressure, manage diabetes, and ward off heart disease.

6. Broccoli: Broccoli is not just safe for dogs to eat; it contains many health benefits and nutrients for your dog, just like it does for you. In fact, some dog foods even contain broccoli. It is full of fibre, antioxidants, and digestible plant protein, and it provides vitamins and minerals 

5. Spinach: Spinach is a good source of iron, calcium, and vitamin A. Spinach is a superfood with a bounty of vitamins and minerals that can benefit a healthy dog and protect them from the effects of ageing.  It is also low in calories, As with all human foods, spinach should be fed as a treat and in moderate amounts.

6. Pumpkin: Pumpkin help regulate digestion. the fibre in pumpkin is great for your dog’s digestive health. It helps with mild diarrhoea, and supports weight management. It is also a good source of vitamin A and potassium.

7. Peas: Peas are a good source of protein, fibre, and vitamin C.  Peas are not only safe for dogs to eat, but they offer a variety of health benefits as well.They are also low in fat and calories, making them a great snack for dogs.

It’s important to remember that any new food should be introduced gradually and in moderation. A well-rounded diet for your dog should consist of balanced and complete commercial dog food that meets their nutritional needs.

Other Dogs Treat Recipes 

1. Dog Treat

Ingredients 

• 1 cup pumpkin puree
• ¼ cup peanut butter
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup old fashioned oats
• 3 cups whole wheat flour, or more, as needed
• 1 carrot, peeled and shredded
• 1 zucchini, shredded
• 1 cup baby spinach, chopped

Instruction:

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat; set aside.
• In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat pumpkin puree, peanut butter and eggs on medium-high until well combined, about 1-2 minutes.
• Gradually add old fashioned oats and 2 1/2 cups flour at low speed, beating just until incorporated. Add an additional 1/4 cup flour at a time just until the dough is no longer sticky. Add carrot, zucchini and spinach, beating just until incorporated.
• Working on a lightly floured surface, knead the dough 3-4 times until it comes together. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Using cookie cutters, cut out desired shapes and place them onto the prepared baking sheet.
• Place into oven and bake until the edges are golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.*
• Let it cool completely

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2. Bone Broth For Dogs

• Author: Kiki Kane
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 hours
• Total Time: 9 hours 35 minutes

• Yield: 2-2.5 Quarts 1x
• Category: Meal Mix-in

Ingredients

• 3 Tbsp olive oil
• 2 pounds beef marrow bones
• 4 raw pig’s feet (not smoked)
• 8 celery stalks
• 4 carrots or 2 cups baby carrots
• 1 Cup roughly chopped parsley
• 1/4 cup raw apple cider vinegar (some recipes suggest lemon juice but we do not recommend giving citrus to dogs)
• water

Equipment

• large roasting pan
• Instant pot, crockpot, or stockpot

Instructions

• Place a rack in the middle of your oven.
• Preheat oven to a hot-n-spicy 450º.
• Grease a large roasting pan with olive oil and place your bone in the centre, pig’s feet around the edges, and fill with the celery and carrots in the empty spaces.
• Bake the bones for an hour, flipping the bones and feet halfway through. If things are getting too brown too fast, turn down the oven or just skip straight to loading the Instant Pot.
• Put the roughly chopped parsley in the bottom of the Instant Pot or Crock-Pot. Add the bones next, placing the marrow bones in the center and pushing the pig’s feet around. Top off with as much of the veggies as will fit, filling in some of the cracks. Add the apple cider vinegar, then add cold water, leaving an inch of space under the max fill line.
• Close and seal, cooking in manual mode for the max time of 240 minutes (4 hours). If your pressure cooker only goes to 120, just run it twice.
• If you’re using a slow cooker, set it on low for 24-48 hours to get the maximum benefits of the recipe.
• If you’re using a stockpot on the stove, get the broth up to a simmer, stirring occasionally, then cover and simmer on low 24-48 hours, checking the pot regularly to make sure the temperature is maintained and nothing is burning or sticking.
• Use a natural release, then turn off the heat. When the pot is cool enough to touch, you can use a small strainer to remove the larger piece from the broth. Then strain the broth through a fine-mesh colander to catch any loose bone bits.
• Chill the broth in the fridge for a few hours or overnight until it (hopefully) sets into a gel.
• Scrape the fat off the top of the gelatinized broth, pausing to appreciate how wiggly and jiggly it is.
• Serve it up! You can freeze the broth, heat it up a little and pour 1/4-1/2 cup over your dog’s kibble at mealtimes, or serve alone as a nutritious snack.

3. Celery And Peanut Butter Treat

Ingredients

• 2 cups Dandy® Celery about 4 stalks, chopped
• ⅓ cup greek yogurt plain, nonfat
• 1 tbsp peanut butte

Instructions

1. Using an immersion blender or traditional blender, blend together the celery, yoghurt, and peanut butter.
2. Pour mixture into moulds and place in the freezer for 3-4 hours, or until frozen solid.
3. Once the treats are frozen solid, remove from the moulds. Store in the freezer in an airtight container or freezer bag.

4. Liver Logs Dog Treat

Ingredients

• 8 ounces cream cheese
• ½ pound chicken livers
• 1 head celery
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

• Remove cream cheese from refrigerator and let it soften while preparing liver.
• Rinse chicken livers and fry in olive oil until liver is no longer pink. Remove from heat and use a fork to break up the liver as much as possible.
• In a mixing bowl, use a fork or hand mixer to mix cream cheese and chicken liver. Mix until no large pieces of liver are visible.
• Wash celery and trim ends. Fill with cream cheese-liver mixture, either with a fork or by piping it using a plastic bag with the corner snipped off.
• Refrigerate.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, Celery is safe for your dog to cook, raw, diced, or chopped as long as you thoroughly wash it beforehand.

To be especially safe, buy celery stalks at the grocery store that are labelled as organic. 

As a mass-produced plant, non-organic celery is most likely sprayed with a lot of potentially toxic chemicals like pesticides.

Celery can be part of your pup’s daily health regimen in small amounts because it offers many nutritional benefits.

As always, when making a decision to feed your dog a new food, it is always a good idea to consult your vet to get their take on whether it is the best idea for your dog, specifically.