Can Dogs Eat Cucumber? Hydrating Low-Calorie Snack

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Cool, crisp and about ninety-five percent water, cucumber is one of the lightest snacks you can offer a dog. It is a favorite with owners trying to cut calories, and many dogs love the crunch.

Nutrition

Cucumber provides small amounts of vitamin K, vitamin C, potassium and magnesium, and a little fibre, mainly in the skin. It has around sixteen calories per cup of slices. It is not a significant source of nutrients, but the low calorie count and hydration are useful. See essential vitamins for dogs.

Benefits

• Very low calorie, helpful for dogs on weight-loss plans. See how to help an overweight dog lose weight.
• Hydrating, especially in hot weather.
• Crunchy, which many dogs enjoy.
• Low in fat and sugar.

How to serve

1. Wash cucumber thoroughly to remove wax, pesticides and dirt.
2. Slice into rounds, sticks or small cubes, sized for your dog.
3. Peel if your dog has a sensitive stomach, since the skin can be tough.
4. Serve plain, with no dressings, salt, vinegar or seasoning.

For small dogs, cut slices into small pieces to prevent choking.

How much?

Cucumber is low in calories, but too much can cause gas, bloating or loose stools. Start with a few slices and see how your dog reacts. For small dogs, a few slices are enough. For large dogs, up to half a cucumber occasionally is fine. Count it as part of the daily food if you are using it as a filler.

Frozen cucumber

Frozen cucumber slices make a refreshing summer treat. Freeze slices on a tray and store them in a bag. For teething puppies, cold cucumber can soothe gums, though larger pieces need supervision. See our guide to puppy teething.

What to avoid

• Pickles and pickled cucumbers. They are high in salt and often flavored with garlic, onion or spices. See salt poisoning in dogs and onions and garlic.
• Cucumber salads with dressing, onion and other ingredients.
• Large chunks that could cause choking.
• Moldy or slimy cucumber.

Cucumber and hydration

Cucumber adds water to your dog's intake, but it does not replace fresh water. Always provide plenty of clean water. See how much water a dog should drink.

Special considerations

• Dogs with sensitive stomachs: Start with a small piece.
• Dogs with kidney disease: Ask your vet about potassium and fluid management.
• Puppies: Small pieces are fine.

Other low-calorie options

Try green beans and carrots. See watermelon for another hydrating treat.

Cucumber in recipes

Blend peeled cucumber with a little plain yogurt and freeze it in small molds for a cooling treat. Dice it into a lick mat with a little plain pumpkin, or add a few slices to a summer puzzle toy. Keep seasonings and dressings far away from your dog's portion, and prepare the dog's serving before adding anything to your own salad.

Growing cucumbers

If you grow cucumbers, wash garden produce well and keep your dog away from sprayed plants. Remove fallen, overripe fruit promptly, since fermenting vegetables can upset the stomach and attract wasps. Teach a reliable "leave it" so your dog does not eat everything it finds in the garden. See our recall guide for related skills.

Signs of too much

If your dog develops loose stools, gas or a bloated belly after eating cucumber, cut back or stop. Persistent problems deserve a call to the vet, especially in dogs with chronic digestive conditions.

The takeaway

Cucumber is a safe, crunchy, hydrating treat. Slice it plain, keep portions sensible and avoid pickles.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different. If your dog is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.