Can Dogs Eat Pepperoni?

If your dog has been eyeing your pepperoni pizza every time you put it on the table, it may make you wonder, "Can dogs eat pepperoni toppings?" The answer is no - dogs should not eat pepperoni as it poses potential health risks.

The article provides all the essential information on why you should not give pepperoni to your dog, what happens if a dog eats pepperoni, and its safe alternatives.

Is Pepperoni Safe for Dogs?

Pepperoni is not safe for dogs. While it can be a great addition to your pizza, feeding these little meaty discs to your dog can make them sick. Like any fat food, pepperoni can cause stomach pain, diarrhea and vomiting. It is toxic mainly because it is made with seasonings and spices but let’s go deeper. 

Why Pepperoni Is Not Ideal for Dogs

If you are wondering, “Why is pepperoni bad for dogs?" some significant reasons why pepperoni is dangerous to your dog are:

Excess salt 

Pepperoni is usually high in sodium and too much of it in your dog’s diet can lead to dehydration. While in severe cases, it can cause salt poisoning and kidney damage. The symptoms include decreased urination, loss of appetite, increased thirst, vomiting, and diarrhea. 

Garlic and onion

Most pepperoni recipes include garlic and onions to make them flavorful. It may also be present as powder. These ingredients can harm your dog’s health by causing red blood cell damage. So, if you have a small dog, a piece of pepperoni can be dangerous and may need immediate action. 

High-fat content

Dogs cannot digest greasy foods efficiently, which usually causes bloat, stomach upset, and other digestive issues. They may also suffer long-term health issues such as pancreatitis or heart disease. 

Spices

Pepperoni also contains paprika, peppers, black pepper, fennel seeds, and other seasonings to elevate its flavor. Spicy foods don’t sit well with dogs as they can cause gas and abdominal pain, so you should keep pepperoni far away from your dog. 

What Happens If a Dog Eats Pepperoni?

According to an article by the American Kennel Club, pepperoni and dogs do not go well together because ingesting pepperoni can cause pancreatitis in dogs, a condition that leads to vomiting, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. So if your dog has eaten pepperoni, they may show some or all the symptoms of getting sick, which you need to monitor closely and visit a veterinarian to get them checked properly.

Can Dogs Eat Pepperoni in Small Quantities?

While you can give small amounts of pepperoni on occasion, often, these meaty treats, even in small quantities, cause harm to dogs, especially small-sized ones. 

It is important to understand that if your dog is huge and eats small amounts of pepperoni, they may not get affected. However, if you have a small-sized dog, they may undergo mild gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea or vomiting. 

Safe Alternatives to Pepperoni for Dogs

Since pepperoni is full of salt, spices, and fat, it is unsafe for your dog’s consumption. They may want a bite or two every time you have pizza, but it is best to keep it on the table and away from your dog. According to an article by PetMD, other safe alternatives to pepperoni you can offer to your dog include: 

Slender proteins

Lean proteins like chicken, turkey, and salmon can be offered in small amounts. 

Plain vegetables and greens 

Veggies such as green beans, carrots, sweet potato, peas, lettuce, spinach, and kale are all okay in moderation. 

Fruits and berries

Safe fruits and berries include apples, watermelon, strawberries, blueberries, and bananas. Ensure to offer them in small amounts.

Whole grains

You can share plain cooked rice and quinoa with your canine friend occasionally.

Cooked squash 

Zucchini, pumpkin, and acorn squash can be given to dogs in moderate amounts. 

Conclusion

It is always a good idea to ask your veterinarian before introducing any new human food to your canine companion because some foods are toxic to dogs. They will be able to advise you better by considering your dog's size, weight, and age.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can dogs eat pizza?

No, dogs should not eat pizza as it contains ingredients like garlic, onion, and spices that are toxic to dogs.

Can dogs have pepperoni pizza? 

No, if your pizza has pepperoni dogs must not eat it because pepperoni and other toppings like onions are considered unsafe.