Can dogs eat sausage? Maybe you’ve wondered about sharing some with your pooch while snagging a string of sausages from the local market. If humans can eat sausage, can dogs safely eat it too?
The short answer is no, dogs can’t eat sausage safely. The main issue with serving sausages to dogs is that they are usually high in fat and high in sodium. Additionally, most pork sausages also have ingredients, like garlic and onion powder, added to them, which are not suitable additions to your dog’s diet.
If your dog manages to eat a lot of sausages, you should call your veterinarian for advice. Here’s what you need to know about sausage and dogs.
Why Is Sausage Bad For Dogs?
Made out of pork, sausages are not technically poisonous for dogs, but they are usually high in fat and high in sodium. This makes them unsuitable for a dog’s diet.
Consuming too many high fat foods can place your dog on a path to canine obesity, which can then bring about a large number of medical ailments and problems. Additionally, dogs who eat a high fat diet are more likely to develop pancreatitis.
When it comes to consuming too much sodium, this can lead to issues like heart disease and high blood pressure. Your dog might also wind up with salt poisoning if they eat too many high sodium foods.
Additionally, sausages often have garlic and onion powder added to them, and these are both ingredients that could have a negative impact on your dog’s health and wellbeing.
Many commercial brands of sausage also contain sulfite preservatives which could result in your dog suffering from a vitamin B1 deficiency.
What Should I Do If My Dog Eats Sausage?
If you notice that your dog has sneaked in a bite of sausage, you don’t need to panic. A small amount probably won’t result in any adverse reactions. Just keep an eye out for symptoms of potential salt poisoning such as diarrhea, vomiting, and drinking too much water.
If your dog consumes a larger amount of sausage though, consult with your vet. They will ask about your dog’s symptoms and how many sausages they might have consumed and be able to recommend steps to ensure that your dog recovers okay.
Has your dog ever eaten sausage? How did they feel afterward? Let us know in the comments below!
