Can Dogs Eat Carrots? Raw, Cooked and Frozen

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

Carrots are one of the easiest, cheapest and healthiest treats you can give a dog. Most dogs love the crunch, and the calories are low. A few simple precautions make them even safer.

Nutrition

Carrots provide fibre, beta-carotene, which the body converts to vitamin A, vitamin K, potassium and small amounts of other nutrients. They have few calories, with a medium carrot containing around twenty-five. They contain natural sugars, but the amounts are small in typical treat servings.

Raw or cooked

• Raw carrots are crunchy and satisfying to chew. They can help keep dogs occupied and may help reduce plaque slightly through chewing, but they do not replace tooth brushing. See dental disease in dogs.
• Cooked carrots are softer and easier to digest, with the cell walls broken down so nutrients are more available. Steam or boil them plain, with no butter, salt, oil or seasoning.

Choking and size

Whole large carrots or thick chunks can be a choking hazard, especially for small dogs and dogs that gulp. Cut carrots to a suitable size: thin sticks, slices or small cubes. Supervise your dog, and never give a long carrot to a dog that bites off big pieces.

Frozen carrots for teething

Frozen carrots are a classic remedy for teething puppies. The cold soothes sore gums, and the hard texture offers something to chew. Use a carrot appropriate for your puppy's size, supervise closely and remove any chunks that become small enough to swallow. See our guide to puppy teething and biting.

How much?

Treats should be no more than about ten percent of daily calories. For small dogs, a few small pieces are enough. For large dogs, a whole small carrot is a fine snack. Too much fibre can cause gas or loose stools, so introduce gradually.

A good diet helper

Carrots are low in calories, so they make a good substitute for higher-calorie treats in weight management. See how to help an overweight dog lose weight and green beans for dogs.

Ways to serve

• Raw sticks or slices as treats
• Grated carrot over meals
• Steamed and mashed into food
• Frozen pieces on hot days
• Stuffed in a puzzle toy

Things to avoid

• Carrots cooked with butter, garlic, onion or sugary glazes
• Carrot cake and baked goods
• Very large pieces

Orange skin?

Eating very large amounts of carrots can cause a harmless orange tint to the skin of some dogs, due to beta-carotene. It is not harmful, but it is a sign you are feeding too many.

Allergies and sensitivities

Carrot allergy is rare in dogs. Watch for itching, vomiting or diarrhea the first time you offer them.

Carrots for dental and boredom support

Chewing a large raw carrot, under supervision, offers mental stimulation and can slow down an energetic dog for a while. Take it away once it is small enough to swallow whole. Carrots are not a substitute for dental care, but as a treat they beat many processed biscuits that stick to teeth. Pair them with regular brushing and ask your vet about dental checkups.

Storage and preparation tips

Wash carrots well and trim the tops. Store them in the fridge, and cook a batch at the start of the week if you prefer soft pieces. Frozen cooked carrot cubes keep for months and can be taken out as needed.

The takeaway

Carrots are a safe, healthy, budget-friendly treat. Cut them to size, serve in moderation and enjoy the crunch together.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different. If your dog is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.