Can dogs eat prosciutto? Perhaps you’ve wondered if you can share some with your pup while enjoying slices of prosciutto in the kitchen or adding it to a cheese and meat platter. If humans can eat prosciutto, can dogs safely eat it too?
The short answer is no, dogs can’t safely eat prosciutto. This is because prosciutto is high in fat and sodium and also often contains spices and nitrates that might be harmful to your dog. So being that prosciutto doesn’t really add anything positive to your dog’s diet, it’s best to keep it out of their paws.
If your dog manages to eat a lot of prosciutto, you should call your veterinarian for advice. Here’s what you need to know about prosciutto and dogs.
Why Is Prosciutto Bad For Dogs?
Prosciutto is a meat product that’s high in fat and high in sodium. While curing meat to make prosciutto, extra spices and nitrates are usually used, and they can prove to be harmful to your dog’s health.
If a dog eats a diet that’s too high in fat, they could risk become overweight. Dogs who suffer from canine obesity in turn often go on to develop a number of other medical conditions. Additionally, consuming too much fat can cause a dog to suffer from pancreatitis.
Too much sodium in a dog’s diet can also have a number of harmful effects, including risking heart disease, high blood pressure and salt poisoning.
The extra spices, like garlic and paprika, that are often used in the process of making prosciutto also risk harming your dog.
What Should I Do If My Dog Eats Prosciutto?
Thankfully, if you realize that your dog has sneaked in a small amount of prosciutto, they should be okay. Just keep an eye out for any symptoms of potential salt poisoning such as diarrhea, vomiting, and drinking significantly more water than usual.
If you suspect that your dog might have scarfed down a whole bunch of prosciutto, it’s probably best to consult with your vet. They will ask questions about your dog’s symptoms and behavior and be able to advise you on how best to proceed and whether or not your dog needs medical attention.
Has your dog ever scarfed some prosciutto? Did they feel sick afterwards? Let us know in the comments below!
