Ground Black Pepper and Peppercorns with wooden spoon and scoop. Studio shot on June, 18, 2018
(Picture Credit: khouwes/Getty Images)

Can Dogs Eat Black Pepper? Is Black Pepper Safe For Dogs?

Can dogs eat black pepper? Perhaps you’ve wondered if your dog could have a taste while reaching for the black pepper to add a little seasoning kick to your own dinner. If humans can eat black pepper, can dogs safely eat it too?

The short answer is no, dogs can’t eat black pepper safely. Technically, black pepper is not necessarily toxic to dogs, but it provides almost zero in the way of nutritional benefits to your dog and could very well risk upsetting their digestive system.

So it’s best to keep the black pepper on your dining table and away from your dog’s bowl.

If your dog manages to consume a lot of black pepper, you should call your veterinarian for advice. Here’s what you need to know about black pepper and dogs.

Why Is Black Pepper Bad For Dogs?

As mentioned, black pepper is not poisonous for dogs. If consumed in large enough quantity, it can also provide an amount of vitamin K plus the minerals manganese and iron.

However, due to a substance called piperine, black pepper can aggravate a dog’s digestive system. In turn, this could cause issues such as vomiting, diarrhea, and feelings of nausea.

Additionally, black pepper could also lead to issues that affect a dog’s respiratory system.

What Should I Do If My Dog Eats Black Pepper?

Black peppercorns on a wooden spoon - close up - macro photography
(Picture Credit: Kinga Krzeminska/Getty Images)

First of all, you don’t need to panic if you suspect that your dog has sneaked in a tiny amount of black pepper. Just make sure that they cannot consume any more, keep an eye out for any symptoms such as vomiting and an upset stomach, and provide plenty of fresh water.

On the off chance that your dog has somehow scarfed down a whole bunch of black pepper, it’s best to consult with your veterinarian.

Depending on the size of your dog plus their general health and medical history, it might be suggested that they seek further veterinary help for consuming too much black pepper.

Has your dog ever had a taste of black pepper? How did they feel after? Let us know in the comments below!

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