As a pet parent, you care about the ingredients in your dog's food, and because of this, you're always looking for a healthy treat to share with your furry friend from time to time. Better yet, you want something with vitamins and minerals, and it would be great if it's something you regularly had at home. That's when you start to wonder if carrots are actually good for dogs. You know it's been listed as an ingredient in some of the food you've purchased for your dog, but can dogs eat carrots that are fresh from the fridge or garden? Let's find out whether or not your dog can eat carrots.
Can Dogs Eat Carrots?
Yes! Carrots are a healthy choice if you're looking for a snack for a hungry dog. These root vegetables come in many colors, such as white, purple, yellow, red, and the most common, orange. They're easy to find in grocery stores and can be grown even in cooler weather.
But are carrots good for dogs? You bet! According to Heathline, "Carrots are a particularly good source of beta carotene, fiber, vitamin K1, potassium, and antioxidants." Carrots also contain vitamin A, biotin and vitamin B6, and they're low in calories.
Tasty Tips
How to Feed Carrots to Your Dog
When it comes to feeding carrots to your dog, any color or size of carrot are fine to purchase for your pet. Just make sure you wash the vegetables first to remove any dirt or potential pesticides.
Then, and most importantly, you'll want to chop up the carrots before handing them over to your dog. According to the American Kennel Club, "While carrots are generally safe, it is important to cut whole carrots and even carrot sticks into bite-size chunks before feeding them to your dog. As a result, you will prevent choking, especially in small dogs." You can cut carrots into rounds, small sticks or pieces the size of your dog's hard food. Determine what size is best for your pet based on their size!
You can feed your dog raw or cooked carrots. The benefit of raw carrots is that all the chewing can help support your dog's dental health. If your dog doesn't enjoy raw carrots, offer them cooked carrots — they might prefer the softer texture. Just make sure to avoid cooking the carrots with butter or seasonings and spices as these could potentially make your dog sick. You may even consider putting some carrots in your dog's food if you're looking to boost their vitamin, mineral and fiber intake.
While there are many perks to feeding your dog carrots as a healthy treat, it's always important to talk to your pet's veterinarian before introducing any new food to their meal plan. They'll be able to tell you exactly how often your dog should be snacking on this root vegetable and how many carrots your dog should eat in one sitting.
Now, you don't have to wonder, "Can dogs eat carrots?" or "Are carrots good for dogs?" any longer. You can spoil your furry friends with this nutritious treat if they like it. You can even snack together!
Related products
Adult Large Breed No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy joints, lean muscle, and beautiful coat for large breed dogs
Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports lean muscle and beautiful coat for adult dogs
Adult Small Bites Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle, for dogs who prefer smaller kibble
Adult Healthy Mobility Small Bites Chicken Meal, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Advanced nutrition to support hip & joint health from day 1
Related articles
What to Feed Your Pregnant or Nursing Dog
Proper nutrition for your pregnant or nursing dog is vital to her and her puppy's health. Learn what you should do provide her with the proper nutrients.
The Science Behind Your Dog and His Behavior
Discover how the field of dog science is giving us more and more insights into the inner workings of our furry best friends.
How to Treat A Cut on A Dog (& What to Put on It)
Learn basic steps & precautions for treating a cut on your dog, including what you can put on the cut, and when you should take them to the vet.
Grooming Suggestions for Keeping Your Dog's Coat Healthy
Your dog's coat and skin are a big part of your dog's overall health. Ensure you keep your dog's coat healthy, by following these simple tips.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.