We’ve been seeing all kinds of videos where people are scaring their cats with cucumbers. So, does this mean that we shouldn’t be giving this vegetable to our pets at all? Actually, cucumbers are healthy for both cats and dogs. Today, we are going to take a look at how cucumbers can be a benefit when added to your dog’s diet.
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Are Cucumbers Good For Dogs?
For the most part, it is completely safe to feed cucumbers to your dog. They are a low-calorie treat, and they have that crunchy texture that most dogs seem to love. They have no fat or carbohydrates, and it is a lot healthier for your dog if you give it a slice of cucumber instead of a dog biscuit. A slice of cucumber has about eight calories, and a typical dog biscuit has upwards of 40 calories. You do the math.
If your dog is overweight, cucumber slices are healthy alternatives to fattening doggy treats. This is also a hydrating treat, because cucumbers are high in water content. In fact, the cucumber is about 96 percent water, making it a perfect treat to give a dog after activities such as walking and playing hard. If you are worried about your dog becoming overweight because you use treats for training, simply switch the treats for cucumber slices.
Ultimately, dogs can have cucumbers occasionally.
When Are Cucumbers Not Good For Dogs?
While cucumbers are extremely healthy for dogs to eat, make sure that you do not give them the pickled variety. Pickles are loaded with salt, spices, and sugar, making them unhealthy treats for dogs. A little bit now and again won’t hurt, but pickles should not be a regular treat. Cucumbers are much better for them, and they are crunchy and taste great.
Cucumbers do pose a choking risk, especially for smaller dogs. If you are going to give your dog cucumbers as treats, make sure that you cut them into bite-size pieces that are manageable for your dog to eat without choking. This is particularly important if you have a dog that tends to swallow without chewing.
Yes, Dogs Can Eat Cucumbers Sometimes
Yes, cucumbers are healthy and low in calories, but you can still get too much of a good thing. Don’t be afraid to give cucumber pieces to your dog, but don’t overdo it, especially if you are just introducing this food into his diet. Too much of any food, especially something new, can lead to stomach upset in dogs.