While dogs can usually eat a small amount of sausage safely, they really shouldn’t. The main issue with serving sausages to dogs is that they are usually high in fat and sodium. Additionally, many pork sausages also have ingredients that are toxic to dogs, like garlic and onion powder added to them. In no case should these ever be given to dogs, even in moderation.
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?
While sausages are not technically poisonous for dogs, they are usually high in fat and high in sodium. 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. This makes sausages unsuitable for a dog’s diet.
As previously stated, sausages often have garlic and onion powder added to them. While a little usually sends your dog to the emergency room, too much can cause serious problems.
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 a 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.
