Celery
Last updated: February 10, 2026
Table of Contents
Quick Summary
Celery Celery (Apium graveolens) is a crunchy, fibrous vegetable occasionally included in pet foods for fiber, vitamins, and low-calorie bulk.
What It Is
Celery (Apium graveolens) is a crunchy, fibrous vegetable occasionally included in pet foods for fiber, vitamins, and low-calorie bulk.
Compare to Similar Ingredients
- vs. carrots: Both are low-calorie vegetables. Celery is high in water and fiber (minimal nutrition), while carrots provide beta-carotene for vitamin A. Carrots are more nutrient-dense.
Why It's Used in Dog Products
Manufacturers include celery in dog food, treats, and supplements for several reasons:
- Low-calorie vegetable for weight management
- Provides dietary fiber
- Contains vitamin K, vitamin C, and potassium
- Adds crunchy texture
- Natural breath freshener (claimed)
Nutritional Profile
Key Micronutrients
- 0: Vitamin K (supports blood clotting, bone health)
- 1: Vitamin A (vision, immune function)
- 2: Folate (cell division, DNA synthesis)
- 3: Potassium (heart health, electrolyte balance)
- 4: Vitamin C (antioxidant)
- 5: Manganese (bone, metabolism)
Quality Considerations
When evaluating celery in dog products, it's important to understand protein density, amino acid profile, digestibility, and sourcing quality. This ingredient's quality and appropriateness can vary significantly based on sourcing, processing, and the specific formula it's used in.
Celery is a low-calorie, high-water vegetable (about 95% water) with minimal nutritional density. It provides some vitamin K, vitamin C, and fiber, but protein and fat content are negligible. The fiber is beneficial for digestion, and celery contains antioxidants like apigenin. However, it's mostly water and fiber with limited concentrated nutrients. Generally very safe and digestible.
Potential Concerns
While celery can be appropriate in dog nutrition, pet owners should be aware of allergies, protein digestibility, and quality variations between named and generic sources. Individual dogs may respond differently to the same ingredient based on their health status, age, and sensitivities.
Celery is fine but unremarkable. It adds some fiber and crunch without many calories, which can be useful in weight management foods. However, it's not nutritionally dense and mostly contributes water and fiber. We'd prefer to see more nutrient-rich vegetables or animal-based ingredients. Celery is harmless, but it's not adding much value beyond texture and bulk. Safe but forgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is celery safe for dogs?
Yes, celery is safe for dogs when used appropriately in properly formulated dog food. As with any ingredient, individual dogs may have sensitivities, so monitor for any adverse reactions when first introducing products containing this ingredient.
What does celery do in dog products?
Low-calorie vegetable providing hydration, fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Dog food manufacturers include this ingredient to provide low-calorie vegetable for weight management and provide dietary fiber.
Related Ingredients
Analyze Your Dog's Food
Want to know what's really in your dog's food, treats, or supplements? Paste the ingredient list to get instant analysis.
Try the Analyzer Tool