Can dogs eat bouillon? Maybe you’ve wondered this while adding a bouillon cube to water to make a quick stock or broth for a hearty soup or stew. If humans can eat bouillon, can dogs safely eat it too?
The short answer is no, dogs can’t eat bouillon safely. The main issue is that, whether you’re using a meat or a vegetable-based bouillon, almost all commercially produced bouillon is very high in sodium.
Additionally, most bouillon has onion and garlic added to it for flavor, and those are both ingredients that can prove harmful to your pooch.
If your dog manages to consume a lot of bouillon, call your veterinarian for advice. Here’s what you need to know about bouillon and dogs.
Why Is Bouillon Bad For Dogs?
Whether you’re buying chicken, beef, or vegetable bouillon, there’s an almost certain likelihood that it has had a lot of sodium added to it. A dog’s diet should not be high in sodium.
Consuming too much sodium can cause a dog to suffer from heart disease and high blood pressure, and it could even lead to salt poisoning.
In addition to high levels of salt, most bouillon has garlic and onion added to it for an extra flavor boost. Unfortunately, both garlic and onions can be harmful to your dog.
What Should I Do If My Dog Eats Bouillon?
If you’ve noticed that your dog has consumed a very small amount of bouillon, just keep on eye on them and look out for any symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and drinking a lot more water than usual.
These symptoms could indicate that your dog is not reacting well to the bouillon and might even suggest salt poisoning.
In cases where your dog has managed to eat a much larger amount of bouillon, consult with your vet. They will be able to ask questions about their medical history and current symptoms and formulate a safe plan to move forward with.
Remember, if you’ve been advised to add stock to your dog’s meals for medical or nutritional reasons, always avoid using bouillon. Instead, take the time to make a simple stock yourself that does not contain extra salt.
Has your dog ever consumed bouillon? Did they feel sick afterwards? Let us know in the comments below!