Fido Wants to Know: Can Dogs Eat Carrots?

You know that blueberries and strawberries are safe for your four-legged friend, but can dogs eat carrots? And if they can, should vegetables be cooked or can they be eaten raw? Here’s what veterinarian Dr. Katja Lang from Heart of Chelsea Animal Hospital has to say. 

“Carrots are safe for dogs, but everything in moderation,” she tells us. That’s because your pooch may not respond well to something that she’s never had before. 

But once you know that these orange spears are safe for Sinéad O’Collar, feel free to give them to her as a treat every now and then (either raw or cooked). Carrots are full of healthy vitamins and nutrients. And according to the American Kennel Club, “Some vets even recommend cold carrots for teething puppies as a way to relieve teething discomfort.”

To feed your pup this healthy treat, wash carrots first to remove dirt and pesticides, and cut them into bite-size pieces before giving them to your dog to prevent choking (especially in small dogs).

But are there any vegetables that are off-limits for dogs? You should stay clear of alliums, says Dr. Lang.

“The foods in the ‘always avoid’ category would be anything in the onion or garlic family, sugar-free products containing xylitol, macadamia nuts, grapes or raisins, chocolate or anything with caffeine and yeast dough,” she tells us. She also advises using caution with dairy, high-salt or high-fat items. 

So there you have it—the next time Anderson Pooper is a good boy, skip the processed dog treats and reach into the fridge for a healthy carrot instead.