🥬 Is Celery Good for Dogs? A Vet-Backed Guide to This Crunchy Treat
Celery is often overlooked as a dog-friendly vegetable, but when prepared correctly, it can offer nutritional benefits without the guilt of extra calories. However, not all dogs digest it the same way, and too much can lead to digestive upset.
So, is celery a safe and healthy snack for dogs, or is it better left off the menu? Let’s break down everything you need to know—from health benefits to feeding tips and hidden risks.
🔎 Key Takeaways: Quick Answers to Your Questions
| ❓ Question | ✅ Answer |
|---|---|
| Is celery safe for dogs? | Yes, in moderation and when cut into small pieces. |
| What are the benefits? | Low-calorie, hydrating, vitamin-rich, and supports dental health. |
| Can celery help with weight management? | Yes! It’s a great low-calorie snack for overweight dogs. |
| How should celery be prepared for dogs? | Washed thoroughly, chopped into small pieces, and served plain. |
| Can celery cause digestive issues? | Yes, too much fiber can lead to gas or diarrhea. |
| Is celery safe for all dogs? | Most dogs can eat it, but some may have allergies or difficulty digesting it. |
| Does celery improve bad breath in dogs? | Yes! The crunch helps clean teeth and freshen breath. |
| Can puppies eat celery? | Yes, but only in tiny amounts to prevent choking. |
🥦 What Are the Benefits of Celery for Dogs?
Celery isn’t just a low-calorie snack—it’s packed with essential nutrients that support various aspects of a dog’s health.
| 🏆 Health Benefit | ✅ How It Helps Dogs |
|---|---|
| Low-Calorie & Weight-Friendly ⚖️ | Perfect for dogs on a diet, as it contains only 6 calories per stalk. |
| Hydrating Snack 💧 | Made up of 95% water, helping to keep dogs hydrated. |
| Rich in Vitamins A, C, & K 🌟 | Supports vision, immune system, and bone strength. |
| Good Source of Fiber 🦠 | Aids digestion and bowel regularity (but too much can cause gas). |
| Helps Freshen Breath 🦷 | Crunchy texture removes plaque and promotes better oral health. |
| Contains Antioxidants 🛡️ | Helps reduce inflammation and boost immunity. |
💡 Did You Know? Celery contains apigenin, an antioxidant that may help combat inflammation—great for older dogs with joint pain or arthritis!
🥕 How Can Dogs Safely Eat Celery?
While celery is safe for dogs, preparation matters—especially to avoid choking hazards.
| 🍽️ Preparation Method | ✅ Safe for Dogs? | 🚨 Potential Risks |
|---|---|---|
| Raw Celery (Chopped Small) | ✔️ Yes | Must be cut into small, bite-sized pieces to prevent choking. |
| Cooked Celery (Plain, No Seasoning) | ✔️ Yes | Softens texture, making it easier for small dogs or puppies to eat. |
| Celery Leaves | ❌ No | Some dogs experience digestive upset from the leaves. |
| Celery with Seasonings (Salt, Garlic, Butter, etc.) | ❌ No | Seasonings like salt or garlic are toxic to dogs. |
| Celery Mixed with Peanut Butter | ✔️ Yes (in moderation) | Use unsweetened, xylitol-free peanut butter only. |
💡 Feeding Tip: For teething puppies, try freezing chopped celery pieces for a soothing, crunchy snack!
⚠️ Are There Any Risks to Feeding Celery to Dogs?
Even though celery is generally safe, feeding too much or not preparing it properly can lead to issues.
| 🚨 Potential Risk | ❌ Why It Can Be a Problem | 🏥 How to Avoid It |
|---|---|---|
| Choking Hazard | Long, stringy celery stalks can get stuck in a dog’s throat. | Always chop celery into small, manageable pieces. |
| Digestive Issues | Too much fiber can cause bloating, diarrhea, or gas. | Introduce slowly and monitor stool changes. |
| Diuretic Effect | Celery can increase urination, which may lead to dehydration in some dogs. | Offer fresh water and don’t overfeed. |
| Allergic Reactions (Rare) | Some dogs may experience itching, swelling, or vomiting. | Start with a small amount and watch for reactions. |
💡 Safety Tip: If your dog has kidney disease or urinary issues, consult your vet before giving celery due to its mild diuretic effect.
📏 How Much Celery Can Dogs Eat?
The right amount depends on your dog’s size and digestive tolerance.
| 🐶 Dog Size | 🥬 Safe Serving Size |
|---|---|
| Small Dogs (<20 lbs) | 1-2 small pieces (about ½ stalk) |
| Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs) | 3-4 small pieces (about 1 stalk) |
| Large Dogs (>50 lbs) | 5-6 small pieces (up to 2 stalks) |
💡 Moderation is key! Treats—including celery—shouldn’t exceed 10% of a dog’s daily calorie intake.
🏥 What If My Dog Eats Too Much Celery?
If a dog overindulges in celery, they may experience mild to moderate digestive upset.
| 🚑 Symptoms of Too Much Celery | ✅ How to Manage It |
|---|---|
| Diarrhea or Loose Stools 💩 | Reduce fiber intake, give bland foods like rice and boiled chicken. |
| Excessive Gas or Bloating 🎈 | Walk your dog to help digestion and monitor for discomfort. |
| Increased Urination 🚽 | Make sure your dog has access to plenty of water. |
| Choking or Gagging 🆘 | If celery gets stuck, try gently massaging the throat—seek vet care if it persists. |
💡 Emergency Tip: If your dog experiences persistent vomiting, choking, or severe discomfort, call your vet immediately.
🏁 Final Verdict: Is Celery Good for Dogs?
✔️ Yes, when given in moderation and properly prepared! Celery is a healthy, hydrating, and low-calorie snack, but it should always be chopped into small pieces and served plain.
📌 Final Tips:
- ✔️ Choose organic celery if possible to reduce pesticide exposure.
- ✔️ Always chop into bite-sized pieces to prevent choking.
- ✔️ Introduce slowly to check for digestive tolerance.
- ✔️ Avoid celery leaves and any added seasonings.
- ✔️ Monitor for allergies—though rare, some dogs may react negatively.
💡 Alternative Dog-Friendly Veggies: If your dog doesn’t like celery, try cucumbers, carrots, zucchini, or pumpkin for a nutritious and safe treat!
🔥 Still have questions? Drop them below!
💬 Expert Answers & Insights
Comment 1: “Can celery be a daily snack for my dog?”
Yes, but moderation is key. While celery is low in calories and hydrating, it shouldn’t replace a balanced diet. Overfeeding can lead to digestive issues like bloating or diarrhea.
| 🥬 Daily Celery Feeding Guide | ✅ Why It’s Beneficial | ⚠️ When to Be Cautious |
|---|---|---|
| Small Amounts Are Safe | Provides hydration, fiber, and essential vitamins. | Too much fiber can cause gas or loose stools. |
| Great for Weight Management | Helps reduce calorie intake for overweight dogs. | Excess consumption may lead to frequent urination. |
| Can Improve Dental Health | Crunchy texture removes plaque buildup. | Not a substitute for brushing teeth or dental treats. |
💡 Feeding Tip: If using celery as a daily snack, rotate it with other dog-friendly veggies like carrots or green beans to ensure dietary variety.
Comment 2: “Can celery help with my dog’s bad breath?”
Yes! Celery is a natural breath freshener due to its high water content and crunchy texture, which helps remove plaque and food particles from teeth.
| 🦷 Celery for Fresh Breath | ✅ How It Works | 🛠 Best Ways to Use It |
|---|---|---|
| Cleans Teeth Naturally | Scrapes plaque and debris off teeth while chewing. | Give small pieces as a post-meal treat. |
| Hydrates & Flushes Out Bacteria | 95% water helps rinse away odor-causing bacteria. | Offer chilled celery for extra freshness. |
| Contains Natural Antioxidants | May reduce oral inflammation and prevent gum disease. | Combine with regular dental care for best results. |
💡 Oral Hygiene Tip: While celery helps, regular tooth brushing is still essential to prevent tartar buildup and gum disease.
Comment 3: “Can puppies eat celery, or is it too tough for them?”
Yes, but puppies should only have finely chopped or softened celery to prevent choking.
| 🐶 Celery for Puppies | ✅ Why It’s Safe | 🚨 Precautions to Take |
|---|---|---|
| Low in Calories & Safe for Growing Pups | Provides vitamins for immune support. | Cut into tiny, bite-sized pieces to avoid choking. |
| Good for Teething Relief | Crunchiness helps soothe sore gums. | Try freezing small celery sticks for a cool chew toy. |
| Gentle on the Stomach (in Small Amounts) | Helps prevent constipation in puppies. | Introduce slowly—too much fiber can cause gas. |
💡 Puppy Feeding Tip: Always supervise your puppy when introducing new foods to ensure safe chewing and digestion.
Comment 4: “Can dogs with kidney disease eat celery?”
Yes, but only in moderation. Celery is a natural diuretic, which can be beneficial for flushing out toxins but may cause increased urination in dogs with kidney disease.
| ⚕️ Celery & Kidney Health | ✅ Potential Benefits | 🚨 When to Limit or Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Rich in Antioxidants | Helps reduce inflammation in the body. | May increase urination, leading to dehydration. |
| Supports Hydration | High water content keeps the body hydrated. | Dogs with advanced kidney disease may struggle with excess fluid loss. |
| Low in Protein & Phosphorus | A safe snack compared to high-protein treats. | Always consult a vet before adding new foods. |
💡 Kidney Health Tip: If your dog has kidney disease, ensure water is always available when feeding celery to prevent dehydration.
Comment 5: “Can celery cause allergies in dogs?”
While rare, some dogs may be allergic to celery. If your dog has never had celery before, introduce it slowly and watch for signs of a reaction.
| 🤧 Celery Allergy Symptoms | 🚨 What to Look For | 🏥 What to Do |
|---|---|---|
| Itchy Skin | Scratching, redness, or excessive licking. | Stop feeding celery and monitor symptoms. |
| Digestive Issues | Vomiting, diarrhea, bloating. | Provide bland foods and water to settle the stomach. |
| Swelling or Difficulty Breathing (Severe) | Swollen face, hives, wheezing. | Seek emergency vet care immediately. |
💡 Allergy Tip: If your dog has known food sensitivities, consult your vet before introducing celery or any new food.
Comment 6: “Can celery be harmful to my dog’s digestive system?”
Yes, if overfed or given in large pieces, celery can cause bloating, diarrhea, or even constipation.
| 🚨 Celery & Digestive Issues | ❌ Potential Problem | ✅ How to Prevent It |
|---|---|---|
| Too Much Fiber | Can lead to loose stools or gas. | Start with small amounts and monitor digestion. |
| Tough Fibrous Stalks | May be difficult to break down, causing bloating. | Chop finely or lightly steam celery for easier digestion. |
| Diuretic Effect | Increases urination, potentially leading to dehydration. | Always provide fresh water after feeding celery. |
💡 Digestion Tip: If your dog experiences diarrhea or gas, reduce celery intake and switch to softer vegetables like pumpkin or zucchini.
Comment 7: “Can I mix celery with other dog-friendly foods?”
Yes! Celery pairs well with many healthy ingredients to create nutrient-dense, tasty treats.
| 🥣 Best Celery Combinations | ✅ Health Benefits | 🛠 How to Serve |
|---|---|---|
| Celery + Peanut Butter 🥜 | Adds protein & healthy fats. | Use xylitol-free peanut butter and spread lightly. |
| Celery + Carrots 🥕 | Boosts fiber & vitamin A. | Chop both into tiny bite-sized pieces. |
| Celery + Pumpkin Puree 🎃 | Aids digestion & soothes stomach. | Mix into a homemade dog-friendly mash. |
| Celery + Chicken (No Seasoning) 🍗 | Adds protein while keeping it low-calorie. | Steam celery & mix into shredded chicken. |
💡 Homemade Treat Tip: For a cool summer snack, freeze chopped celery with plain Greek yogurt for a hydrating, probiotic-rich treat!
Comment 8: “Can celery help my overweight dog lose weight?”
Yes! Celery is one of the best weight-loss treats for dogs because it’s low in calories and high in fiber, helping dogs feel full without excess calories.
| ⚖️ Celery for Weight Loss | ✅ Why It’s Effective | 🛠 How to Use It |
|---|---|---|
| Low-Calorie Snack | Only 6 calories per stalk—great for dieting dogs. | Use as a treat replacement for high-calorie snacks. |
| High in Fiber | Helps dogs feel fuller for longer. | Mix celery with lean proteins like chicken or fish. |
| Water-Rich & Hydrating | Helps flush out toxins and reduce cravings. | Offer chilled celery as a refreshing snack. |
💡 Weight Loss Tip: Combine celery with regular exercise and portion control for a healthy, sustainable weight loss plan.
Comment 9: “Can celery replace commercial dog treats?”
Yes, celery is a great alternative to high-calorie, processed treats, but it shouldn’t completely replace all rewards. While low in calories and full of nutrients, it lacks the protein and fats dogs need for a balanced diet.
| 🍖 Celery vs. Commercial Treats | ✅ Why It’s a Healthy Swap | 🚨 Why It Shouldn’t Fully Replace Treats |
|---|---|---|
| Low in Calories | Great for weight management and reducing excess fat intake. | Lacks essential amino acids and proteins for muscle health. |
| Crunchy & Hydrating | Helps satisfy chewing urges and hydrates dogs. | Not as flavorful as meat-based treats, reducing motivation for training. |
| No Artificial Additives | Free from preservatives, artificial colors, and excess sodium. | Some dogs may refuse it if they prefer high-protein snacks. |
💡 Training Tip: Use celery alongside other high-value treats like freeze-dried meat to keep training effective while maintaining a healthy balance.
Comment 10: “Is it okay to give my dog celery juice instead of whole celery?”
🚨 No! Celery juice lacks fiber and may cause digestive upset due to its high concentration of natural compounds that can act as diuretics. Whole celery is a better option for controlled nutrition and digestion.
| 🥤 Celery Juice vs. Whole Celery | ✅ Health Effects | 🚨 Potential Risks |
|---|---|---|
| Whole Celery 🥬 | Provides fiber, hydration, and chewing benefits. | Can cause choking if not chopped properly. |
| Celery Juice 🥤 | Retains some vitamins but lacks fiber. | May cause diarrhea, excessive urination, or upset stomach. |
| Best Option? ✅ | Chopped, raw celery in moderation. | Avoid juicing—dogs benefit more from whole food sources. |
💡 Hydration Tip: If you want to add celery benefits to your dog’s water, try infusing fresh celery pieces instead of juicing. This preserves fiber while still adding mild flavor.
Comment 11: “Can celery cause bladder stones in dogs?”
While celery itself doesn’t directly cause bladder stones, it contains oxalates, which can contribute to stone formation in dogs prone to urinary issues.
| 🩺 Celery & Bladder Stones | ✅ Why It’s Usually Safe | 🚨 When It Can Be Risky |
|---|---|---|
| High in Water Content | Helps flush out the urinary tract, preventing infections. | Dogs prone to calcium oxalate stones should avoid oxalate-rich foods. |
| Mildly Diuretic | Can increase urination, which helps reduce toxin buildup. | Excessive intake may stress the kidneys in at-risk dogs. |
| Vet-Approved in Moderation | Healthy dogs can eat celery without issue. | If your dog has a history of bladder stones, consult a vet first. |
💡 Urinary Health Tip: If your dog is prone to bladder stones, focus on hydration and vet-approved low-oxalate foods like pumpkin, white rice, and lean meats.
Comment 12: “Can celery be used to relieve constipation in dogs?”
Yes! Celery is rich in fiber and water, which can help soften stools and promote regular bowel movements—but too much can have the opposite effect, leading to diarrhea.
| 💩 Celery for Digestive Health | ✅ How It Helps | 🚨 How It Can Go Wrong |
|---|---|---|
| High in Fiber | Promotes healthy digestion and regularity. | Too much can cause loose stools or bloating. |
| Hydrating Effects | Helps prevent dry stools by increasing moisture intake. | May act as a diuretic, leading to dehydration if overfed. |
| Natural Digestive Aid | Works well when combined with pumpkin or sweet potato. | Some dogs may experience stomach discomfort if they eat too much. |
💡 Digestive Tip: If your dog is constipated, try mixing finely chopped celery with plain pumpkin or yogurt for a gentle, stomach-friendly remedy.
Comment 13: “Can celery help senior dogs with joint pain or arthritis?”
Yes! Celery contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that may help reduce inflammation in aging dogs with arthritis or joint pain.
| 🦴 Celery for Joint Health | ✅ How It Supports Aging Dogs | 🛠 Best Ways to Use It |
|---|---|---|
| Contains Antioxidants | Helps combat oxidative stress that contributes to joint stiffness. | Mix chopped celery into homemade bone broth for added benefits. |
| Vitamin K for Bone Health | Supports stronger bones and cartilage maintenance. | Combine with glucosamine supplements for maximum joint care. |
| Hydrating & Low-Calorie | Aids weight management, reducing strain on joints. | Serve chilled celery as a light, refreshing snack. |
💡 Senior Dog Tip: While celery can provide some relief, dogs with arthritis may need a more comprehensive joint care plan, including omega-3 fatty acids and vet-approved joint supplements.
Comment 14: “Can celery be given to dogs with diabetes?”
Yes, celery is an excellent snack for diabetic dogs because it is low in sugar, high in fiber, and hydrating. However, it should still be given in moderation.
| 🍏 Celery for Diabetic Dogs | ✅ Why It’s Safe | 🚨 What to Watch Out For |
|---|---|---|
| Low in Sugar & Carbs | Won’t spike blood sugar like starchy treats. | Must be served plain without any added dips or seasonings. |
| Rich in Fiber | Helps slow glucose absorption, stabilizing blood sugar. | Too much fiber may interfere with digestion. |
| Hydration Booster | Helps flush excess glucose through urination. | If excessive urination occurs, adjust portion size. |
💡 Diabetes Care Tip: Pair celery with lean protein sources like boiled chicken to maintain stable energy levels without carbohydrate spikes.
Comment 15: “Can celery be mixed into homemade dog food?”
Yes! Celery is a great addition to homemade dog meals, as long as it is properly prepared and balanced with other nutrients.
| 🍲 Adding Celery to Homemade Dog Food | ✅ Best Ways to Use It | 🚨 Mistakes to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Finely Chopped in Meals | Mix small amounts with lean meats and whole grains. | Avoid large chunks that could pose a choking risk. |
| Blended in Dog-Friendly Soups | Adds hydration, fiber, and vitamins to homemade broth. | Never use seasoned broths with onions or garlic. |
| Steamed & Mashed for Easy Digestion | Softer texture helps dogs absorb nutrients more easily. | Too much can cause digestive issues like diarrhea. |
💡 Homemade Meal Tip: A balanced dog meal should include protein, fiber, healthy fats, and essential vitamins—celery is best used as a supplement, not a main ingredient.
Comment 16: “Can celery be used as a natural remedy for dehydration in dogs?”
Yes, celery is composed of about 95% water, making it a great natural hydration booster—especially for dogs who don’t drink enough water. However, it should never replace fresh water as a primary hydration source.
| 💧 Celery for Hydration | ✅ How It Helps | 🚨 When to Be Cautious |
|---|---|---|
| High Water Content | Helps increase moisture intake, especially in hot weather. | Should never replace clean drinking water. |
| Provides Electrolytes Like Potassium | Supports muscle function and prevents cramps. | Dogs with kidney disease should limit potassium intake. |
| Encourages Water Intake | Some dogs enjoy crunching on celery more than drinking water. | Monitor for frequent urination, which can lead to dehydration. |
💡 Hydration Tip: For dogs who resist drinking water, try freezing small celery pieces in their water bowl to add flavor and encourage hydration.
Comment 17: “Can celery help with bloating in dogs?”
Celery contains fiber and antioxidants that support digestion, but too much fiber can actually worsen bloating if a dog’s stomach is sensitive.
| 🎈 Celery & Bloating | ✅ When It Can Help | 🚨 When It Can Worsen the Problem |
|---|---|---|
| Contains Digestive Enzymes | May help break down food and reduce mild bloating. | If a dog is prone to gassiness, too much fiber can increase bloating. |
| Hydrating Effect | Keeps the digestive tract moving efficiently. | Large, fibrous pieces may cause discomfort if swallowed whole. |
| Encourages Chewing | Slower eating helps reduce air intake (a bloating trigger). | Dogs that gulp food should have celery finely chopped. |
💡 Bloating Prevention Tip: If your dog is prone to bloating, always introduce celery in small amounts, and avoid feeding it immediately before or after exercise.
Comment 18: “Can celery be given to dogs who have pancreatitis?”
🚨 Yes, but with strict moderation. Celery is low in fat, making it a safer option than many commercial treats for dogs with pancreatitis—but excess fiber may irritate an already inflamed pancreas.
| 🏥 Celery & Pancreatitis | ✅ Why It’s a Safe Option | 🚨 Why It Should Be Limited |
|---|---|---|
| Low in Fat | Won’t trigger inflammation like fatty treats. | Some dogs with pancreatitis struggle with fiber digestion. |
| High in Antioxidants | May reduce oxidative stress and aid recovery. | Excess fiber may cause loose stools or stomach discomfort. |
| Water-Rich for Hydration | Helps support fluid balance in pancreatitis recovery. | Introduce slowly to check tolerance. |
💡 Pancreatitis Tip: Always consult a vet before adding any new food to a dog’s diet during pancreatitis recovery—bland, low-fat meals are the safest choice.
Comment 19: “Can celery be used as a filler in homemade dog food?”
Yes! Celery is a low-calorie, nutrient-dense filler that adds bulk to meals without excess fat or calories. However, it should never replace protein or essential nutrients in homemade dog food.
| 🍲 Using Celery as a Filler | ✅ Why It Works | 🚨 When It Becomes a Problem |
|---|---|---|
| Adds Bulk Without Calories | Helps dogs feel full without weight gain. | Overuse may disrupt balanced nutrition. |
| Rich in Fiber & Nutrients | Supports digestion and gut health. | Too much fiber can interfere with nutrient absorption. |
| Pairs Well with Protein Sources | Complements chicken, turkey, or fish in meals. | Should not replace essential protein or fats. |
💡 Homemade Meal Tip: A good ratio is 80% protein, 10% vegetables, and 10% carbohydrates—celery should remain a minor ingredient, not a main component.
Comment 20: “Can celery help improve my dog’s immune system?”
Yes! Celery contains vitamin C, antioxidants, and flavonoids, which support immune health and may help reduce inflammation and infections.
| 🛡️ Celery & Immune Support | ✅ How It Benefits Dogs | 🚨 Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Rich in Vitamin C | Strengthens immune defenses against illness. | Dogs naturally produce vitamin C, so excess isn’t necessary. |
| Contains Antioxidants | Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress. | Works best when combined with a well-balanced diet. |
| Supports Gut Health | A healthy gut is crucial for a strong immune system. | Should be paired with probiotics for optimal gut function. |
💡 Immune Boosting Tip: Combine celery with dog-safe superfoods like blueberries, pumpkin, and turmeric for a natural immunity-boosting treat!
Comment 21: “Can celery be used to help dogs with high blood pressure?”
Yes! Celery is a natural vasodilator, meaning it helps relax blood vessels and may lower blood pressure in dogs with hypertension.
| ❤️ Celery & Blood Pressure | ✅ Why It’s Beneficial | 🚨 When to Be Cautious |
|---|---|---|
| Contains Phytochemicals | Can help reduce arterial tension, supporting heart health. | Should not replace vet-prescribed hypertension medications. |
| Low in Sodium | Won’t increase blood pressure like processed treats. | Dogs with low blood pressure shouldn’t eat too much. |
| Supports Heart Function | Potassium helps regulate heartbeat and muscle function. | Always monitor for signs of excessive urination. |
💡 Heart Health Tip: If your dog has hypertension, pair celery with lean proteins like fish or turkey to maintain a heart-friendly diet.
Comment 22: “Can celery stalks be used as a chew toy for dogs?”
🚨 No! Large celery stalks are a choking hazard. While they have a crunchy texture, they should always be chopped into bite-sized pieces for safe consumption.
| 🦴 Celery as a Chew Toy? | ✅ Why It’s Crunchy & Fun | 🚨 Why It’s Dangerous |
|---|---|---|
| Dogs Enjoy the Crunch | Provides some dental benefits like plaque removal. | Large stalks can get lodged in the throat. |
| Low-Calorie Chewing Option | A healthier alternative to processed chew treats. | Fibrous strings can cause gagging or digestive blockage. |
| Hydrating & Refreshing | Cold celery can soothe teething puppies. | Always supervise to prevent choking. |
💡 Safe Alternative: Instead of a full celery stalk, try freezing chopped celery mixed with plain yogurt for a cool, chewable treat!
