Is cucumber safe for dogs? The answer is: yes, in moderation. Read on to find out everything you need to know about feeding your dog cucumber, including: Does cucumber have any health benefits for dogs? Can puppies eat cucumber? Can dogs eat cucumber skin? And answers to other frequently asked questions.

Is Cucumber Good For Dogs?

Cucumbers make a safe and refreshing treat for dogs, but there are a couple of things you should keep in mind when feeding your pup cucumber. 

Cucumbers are 96% water and contain essential vitamins and minerals. This makes them an excellent, healthy snack for keeping your dog hydrated on hot days. Just remember that too much of a good thing is possible.

Too much cucumber can cause your dog to have digestive problems, like an upset stomach or diarrhea. That said, it’s best to keep portion sizes small, and only feed your pup this watery, crunchy treat in moderation.

Why Do Dogs Like Cucumbers So Much?

Cucumbers make a tail-wagging, mouth-watering treat for many pups. But why do dogs love cucumbers so much, anyway? Here are three reasons why:

• The satisfying, crunchy texture
• The refreshing, high water content 
• The mild flavor (great for pups with sensitive palates)

Health Benefits of Cucumbers for Dogs

Cucumbers aren’t just a tasty treat for dogs — they come with some health benefits, too.

For one thing, they’re packed with nutrients. Cucumbers are a good source of vitamins C and K — which are essential for a strong immune system and healthy blood clotting, respectively. They also contain potassium and magnesium, which are crucial for proper muscle function.

As mentioned earlier in this article, cucumbers are also extremely hydrating. Try treating your pup to a slice or two on a hot day, or after a long play session at the dog park.

Because cucumbers are mostly water, they are also low in calories and fat. This makes them the perfect, healthy treat for pups who may need to shed a few pounds.

Finally, cucumbers are high in fiber, which aids in healthy digestion and prevents constipation. No wonder dogs love them so much!

How To Feed Your Dog Cucumber

Always wash cucumber before offering it to your dog. Cut the cucumber into thin slices — large chunks can be a choking hazard, or potentially cause an intestinal blockage. 

Keep in mind that you should only feed your pup plain, fresh cucumber. Never add any seasonings or other human food ingredients that may be toxic for dogs or upset your pup’s stomach.

Finally, stick to small portion sizes, and only feed your dog cucumber occasionally. As mentioned in a previous section, the high fiber content in cucumbers can cause an upset stomach or diarrhea if too much is ingested, so be careful not to overdo it!

How Many Cucumber Slices Can Dogs Eat?

The amount of cucumber that's safe for your pup to eat varies depending on their size. What's appropriate for a German Shepherd isn't the same for a Yorkie.

And even though cucumber is a healthy treat for dogs, it should only be given in small amounts. In fact, treats of any kind should make up no more than 10% of your dog's overall diet — the other 90% should come from a well-balanced dog food.

Here are some general guidelines for safe feeding portions, based on your dog's weight and breed size. Keep in mind that each slice of cucumber should be no wider than 1 inch and about ¼-inch thick.

• Extra-small dogs (2-20 lbs.) = 1-2 cucumber slices. Examples: Yorkies, Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Pugs, Shih Tzus.
• Small dogs (21-30 lbs.) = 2-3 cucumber slices. Examples: Basenjis, Beagles, Mini Australian Shepherds.
• Medium dogs (31-50 lbs.) = 5-6 cucumber slices. Examples: Basset Hounds, Border Collies, Australian Cattle Dogs, Siberian Huskies.
• Large dogs (51-90 lbs.) = handful of cucumber slices. Examples: Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Australian Shepherds.
• Extra-large dogs (91+ lbs.) = large handful of cucumber slices. Examples: Newfoundlands, Bernese Mountain Dogs, St. Bernards, Great Pyrenees.

FAQs

Can Dogs Eat Pickled Cucumber?

You should avoid feeding your dog pickled cucumber aka pickles, as it may include ingredients that are unsuitable for dogs, or even harmful. 

For example, pickled cucumber typically has a high salt content, and often contains garlic, an ingredient that’s toxic for pups. When feeding cucumber to your dog, it’s always best to keep it plain.

Can Puppies Eat Cucumber?

Yes, puppies can eat cucumber— just make sure to cut it into very small, thin, bite-sized slices to avoid a choking hazard. And as with adult dogs, moderation is key. A small slice of cucumber or two won't hurt your puppy, but keep in mind that their gut is more sensitive than that of an older dog.

It’s best to limit treats, and to start small when introducing your puppy to cucumber. If you notice any unusual symptoms such as vomiting, wheezing or lethargy, make sure you stop feeding your puppy cucumber and call your vet immediately.

Can Dogs Eat Cucumber Seeds?

Yes, dogs can eat cucumber seeds. They’re not toxic, however, some dogs and puppies may have trouble digesting them. To avoid a potential upset stomach, it’s a good idea to remove the cucumber skin and seeds before feeding this tasty treat to your pup.

Can Dogs Eat Cucumber Skin?

Yes, dogs can eat cucumber with the skin on. In fact, cucumber skin is a good source of fiber, adding to the digestive benefits of this delicious veggie. Just remember, it's important to wash the cucumber skin thoroughly to remove any pesticides or dirt before feeding it to your dog.

Some dogs may find the texture of cucumber skin unappealing or hard to digest — if this applies to your pup, simply remove the skin before feeding them cucumber.

Can Dogs Drink Cucumber Water?

Unsweetened, homemade cucumber water makes a safe and healthy treat for your dog. Store-bought cucumber water, on the other hand, may contain harmful additives or other ingredients that are toxic to dogs, like xylitol. It’s best to steer clear of the store-bought stuff, and make your pup some refreshing cucumber water at home.

At Jinx, we're here to upgrade the way you care for your dog by providing holistic nutrition made with thoughtful formulation, real ingredients, and a whole lot of love.