Can dogs eat Vegemite? If you’re a fan of the pungent and divisive Australian yeast extract condiment, you might have found yourself wondering if you can share some with your pooch. If humans can eat Vegemite, can dogs safely eat it too?
There is no short yes or no answer to whether dogs can eat Vegemite safely. Technically, it’s not toxic for dogs and it can provide a high amount of important B vitamins. But the high sodium content in Vegemite means that it’s really not something your dog should be eating in either large amounts or on a regular basis.
As always, you must consult your veterinarian before introducing new foods to your dog. Here’s what you need to know about Vegemite and dogs.
When Is Vegemite Okay For Dogs To Eat?
Made out of yeast extract, Vegemite is not technically toxic for dogs. It’s a great source of the vitamins B1, B2, B3 and B9, which can help out with anxiety issues and improve your dog’s brain health.
In many cases, Vegemite is also recommended as a way to get your dog to take their medicine due to the way its powerful taste can mask the off-putting smell and taste of any pills that have been prescribed.
A reduced sodium version of Vegemite is also available, which is more suitable for dogs in general.
When feeding Vegemite to your dog, you’ll want to start out with a very small amount and also make sure that it’s used as a treat and doesn’t become a daily part of their diet.
Your vet can advise on a safe amount for your dog and will take into account their age, weight, breed, and medical history.
When Is Vegemite Bad For Dogs?
Sodium is the biggest problem with serving Vegemite to dogs. Vegemite is a food product that’s very high in sodium, and high sodium foods can increase a dog’s chances of suffering from high blood pressure and heart disease.
Additionally, consuming too much sodium can lead to salt poisoning. Some of the most common symptoms of salt poisoning in dogs include vomiting and diarrhea plus feeling the need to drink a lot more water than usual.
If you notice these sort of symptoms or discover that your dog has scarfed down a significant amount of Vegemite, consult with your vet straight away.
Does your dog love the taste of Vegemite? Have you ever used it to hide your dog’s medication? Let us know in the comments below!
