Yes, dogs can eat carrots. They are one of those healthy vegetables that make for a low-calorie snack. They are also high in fiber & beta-carotene, which produce vitamin A. Not only will eating these orange vegetables (carrots) help your dog’s teeth, but they can make meal times more enjoyable too.
A lot of pet foods come with carrots which is a great way to get some extra nutrients without adding anything artificial. Consider including this vegetable next time you feed your pup.
Health benefits of carrots for dogs
- Carrots are high in soluble fiber, which can help manage cholesterol. That’s great for your dog’s heart.
- Carrots are also really good for your dog because they have a lot of insoluble fiber which helps the colon with the ingestion of toxins. This can lead to better, more regular bowel movements too.
- Carrots are a great source of vitamin A and antioxidants that not only promote a healthy coat but also help maintain healthy skin.
- Carrots are rich in Beta-carotene and it is converted to vitamin A by the liver. Vitamin A supports eye health, including night vision.
Risks
- Like many other fruits and vegetables, carrots are high in natural sugars. Too much sugar can lead to weight gain and health problems like tooth decay.
- Raw carrots pose a choking hazard for small dogs because it is difficult for them to chew and swallow.
Serving methods
Talk to your vet about how many carrots should be given per day to a dog and if there are any other factors they may advise against in regards to adding them. We recommend washing and/or peeling carrots to remove dirt, pesticides, and other contaminants before giving them to your pet.
- Carrots are generally safe, but they should be cut into bite-sized chunks and even strips before being fed to your dog. As a result, you will prevent choking.
- Your dog may enjoy the crunchy texture of raw carrots, but if they don’t like them that way try steaming or microwaving carrots. The vitamin content almost stays the same when you steam or microwave carrots for a short time.
- To make this simple and nutritious side dish, fill a mixing bowl with 2-3 cups of water and heat it in the microwave. Cut carrots into batons (or other appropriate shapes) before placing them in a food steamer over the boiling water. Cover your bowl and boil for 8-10 minutes. Make sure not to overcook them as they will become too soft. Drain and serve.
- Steamed carrots can be mashed or blended into a puree and added to your dog’s food in small doses.
- You can also give your dog some carrot juice. Carrot juice is a healthy drink because it is full of vitamin A, but the process of juicing removes good stuff such as fiber. So mix in some pulp before giving it to your pet.
- Newborn puppies benefit from chewing on whole frozen carrots. However, avoid frosty treats like baby carrots as they pose a choking risk.
Is it ok to give your dog carrots every day?
No, it is not a good idea to give carrots to your dog every day. High natural sugars in carrots will lead to abnormal weight gain. You can mix carrots with other foods or buy the foods having carrot mixtures.
Can dogs have canned carrots?
Yes, dogs can eat canned carrots. This crunchy snack not only contains essential vitamins and minerals, but it can also keep your pups’ teeth healthy. However, you need to make sure that the canned carrots do not contain excessive salt or other preservatives.
Can carrots cause diarrhea in dogs?
Carrots have a naturally sweet flavor that’s better for your dog than added sugars, though too much of any sugar source can cause intestinal upset and diarrhea. Eating too many carrots can cause flatulence and diarrhea too because of too much fiber content.
Ankita is a passionate pet lover and head of content at Pet Food Brands. With her extensive knowledge and research, she provides pet owners with top-quality information on dog food and nutrition. Her dedication to improving the lives of dogs makes her a leading voice in the industry.
