Why dogs can have it
Carrots are not toxic to dogs. They are high in water and fibre, low in calories, and contain beta-carotene, which the body turns into vitamin A. A crunchy raw carrot works as a chewy treat, while a cooked one is softer and easier to digest.
Carrots contain natural sugar, so they are still only an extra, not a replacement for proper dog food. All treats together should make up only a small part of what a dog eats in a day.
How to give it
- Wash it and cut it into pieces that suit the size of your dog.
- Give it raw or cooked, but without salt, butter or spices.
- For a small dog or a puppy, grate or cook the carrot so it is softer.
- The first time, give very little and watch how your dog feels.
What to watch out for
- A dog may try to swallow a large piece or a whole carrot without chewing it and choke.
- Too many carrots can cause wind or loose stools.
- Carrot cake and glazed or butter-fried carrots contain sugar, fat and other extras that are not suitable for dogs.
What to give instead
- Cucumbers Yes, fresh cucumber is fine for dogs: it is mostly water and low in calories, but do not give pickled cucumbers. Safe
- Apples Yes, apples are fine for dogs: give small pieces without the core and seeds, as an occasional treat. Safe
- Pumpkin Yes, plain cooked pumpkin flesh without sugar or spices is fine for dogs, but not the skin, the stem or pumpkin pie filling. Safe
- Courgettes Yes, courgettes are fine for dogs: raw or cooked, without oil, salt or spices, they make a light, low-calorie treat. Safe
Looking for a treat?
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