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Ever find yourself enjoying a snack and then look down to see your dog looking up at you longing for a bite? You are not alone. Those puppy dog eyes can be hard to resist! Is it okay to share a bite or a whole helping with your dog? What human foods can dogs eat? Can dogs eat hot dogs? The good news is there are many human foods, including hot dogs, that are safe for dogs, the key is to only offer them in moderation. But there are foods that are toxic to dogs. It is our responsibility as owners to educate ourselves on what is safe to give our pups.
Can Dogs Eat Hot Dogs?
Hot dogs may be especially tempting for your dog when they smell them at your dinner table or family barbeque. Dogs can be offered hot dogs, but the key is moderation. Just as we shouldn’t eat excessive amounts of junk food, treats should only make up about 10% of a dog’s daily calorie intake. The other 90% should be a high-quality, complete and balanced diet specific to their life stage and activity level. A small dog could have about 1 or 2 slices of a hot dog, while a large dog may easily tolerate up to half of a hotdog. This should not be a regular treat, but can be okay on occasion. Every dog is different so what may be okay for one pup, may not be for another, even in moderation. It is best to consult your pet’s veterinarian prior to introducing them to new foods to make sure you are doing what is best for your individual furry friend.
Are Hot Dogs Bad for Dog?
While hot dogs are not considered toxic and can be offered safely to most dogs in moderation, they aren’t good for dogs. There are a couple risks to be aware of when it comes to sharing this snack with your pup. Hot dogs should not be a regular treat as they are high in sodium and high in fat. The average amount of sodium in a hot dog is over double the recommended daily maximum for most dogs. This can lead to dehydration and other issues related to high sodium levels in the blood. Foods with a high fat content can put pets at risk of developing pancreatitis. Pancreatitis typically manifests as a decreased appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea which often requires treatment from the vet to manage. Pets who eat too much fatty foods are also more likely to battle obesity which has been shown to be correlated with earlier onset arthritis, certain metabolic issues, and even a shorter lifespan.
Can Dogs Eat Raw Hot Dogs?
What is the safest way to offer your pup a hot dog? In general, feeding raw meats can put pets at risk of developing infections like Salmonella which can also be harmful to humans. Hot dogs are pre-cooked during their manufacturing, so do not come “raw,” and therefore they are safe for humans and dogs to eat from the package without cooking first. Hot dogs can pose a choking hazard to dogs and should be offered in bite sized pieces. Avoid offering your pup hot dogs that contain additional ingredients like garlic or onions which are toxic to dogs. It is also important not to give your dog a bite of a hotdog with any condiments on it as these toppers, specifically certain sugar-free ketchups or barbecue sauces, can contain harmful artificial sweeteners like xylitol.
Can Hot Dogs Kill Dogs?
If you are out at a picnic and your pup snatches a whole hot dog, don’t fret. Hot dogs are not innately toxic to dogs, but if fed too much of one, pets may develop symptoms of gastrointestinal upset. This can manifest as vomiting, diarrhea, and a decreased appetite. If your pet has symptoms of GI upset for more than 24 hours, you should schedule an appointment with your veterinarian.
Veterinary visits for GI upset can become expensive quickly, especially in severe cases, such as those with pancreatitis. Your vet will likely recommend bloodwork and/or X-rays to help rule out certain issues and hone in on a diagnosis. Pet insurance for dogs helps owners have peace of mind that they can afford the recommended diagnostics and treatments without having to compromise care due to the price tag. Embrace is your partner in your pet’s health management, offering comprehensive health coverage that allows owners like you to opt for the best medicine for your dog.
Hot Dogs for Dogs
Next time you find your dog begging at the backyard barbecue, think twice about offering your furry friend a loaded hot dog. Hot dogs should be offered only on occasion, not as a regular treat, and they should be offered plain and in bite-sized portions. While hot dogs are safe in moderation for most dogs, it is always best to consult with your pet’s veterinarian prior to offering new foods or making changes to their diet. Hot dogs are a tempting snack to share with your pup, but there are much safer alternatives. There are many dog-specific treats on the market that can be just as exciting when your dog is looking for a bite to eat. Owners can also consider looking into homemade dog treat recipes which combine safe, healthy ingredients to make a fun snack for your pup! Your furry baby will just be happy to have a treat and won’t think twice about your hot dog if you offer them up a tasty alternative.