It is barbecue night, sausages are on the menu, and now you start feasting on the food with your dog, looking at all the delicious sausages. But can dogs have sausage? The answer to the plain and unseasoned one is yes. However, keep the seasoned and flavored sausage far away from your dog.
The article provides insights into when dogs can eat sausages, what you should do if your dog eats a large amount of sausage, and the healthier alternatives to sausages.
Is Sausage Bad for Dogs?
Though plain sausage does not cause harm, avoid offering to your dog breakfast sausage, Vienna sausage, and sausage that is linked, made in patties form, or crumbles because most ingredients in these sausages are not safe for dogs. For example, garlic is very toxic to dogs.
It is essential to note that sausage is high in fat and sodium, and consuming higher levels of these can lead to severe health conditions like pancreatitis. A dog DNA test can be a valuable tool in uncovering potential underlying health concerns in your pet, such as genetic predispositions that could lead to pancreatitis.
Are There Any Health Benefits?
Before offering sausage to your dog, it is essential to understand if plain sausage benefits them. Well, sausage contains some protein but is not very beneficial as it usually comes with a lot of fat and salt. Also, since it is typically processed meat, there is always a risk if it is not cooked properly. And raw pork may contain contaminants. It can cause serious food poisoning in your dog.
When Is Sausage Unsafe for Dogs?
When can dogs have sausage and what kind of sausage can they eat? The answer is clear and simple: No seasoning, no salt, no sauce, no additives. When can’t dogs have sausage? Let’s go:
When you offer uncooked or raw sausage to your dog as it potentially harbors bacteria or a type of roundworm, Trichinella, which can cause a disease known as Trichinosis, leading to food poisoning in your canine friend.
When the sausages are flavored - these varieties are unsafe because they generally contain onion, garlic, or chilies, which are toxic to dogs and cause serious health issues.
Eating too much sausage can cause weight gain, leading to medical issues. Also, giving plain sausage to your dog too often will most likely affect their overall health.
When your dog eats cheap varieties containing lower meat content because they may contain different preservatives, it can make them sick.
When your dog cannot tolerate processed meat - if your dog cannot digest processed meat or feels discomfort when they have it, they should not be given sausages.
My Dog Ate Sausage. What Do I Do?
If your dog has sneaked in and stolen a nibble of sausage, your next course of action depends on several factors, including identifying the amount and kind of sausage your dog ate and watching for symptoms.
Determine how much of the sausage dog has devoured and if it is plain or flavored. This is crucial for moving on to your next step. If your healthy adult dog has eaten a small piece of unseasoned sausage, they will most likely not be affected. However, when you are aware that your pup has eaten sausage, look out for symptoms and ask your veterinarian for advice.
The symptoms you should watch out for include diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, and lack of appetite. Ensure to consult your veterinarian immediately if the amount of sausages the dog has eaten is large.
What to Feed Your Dog Instead of Sausage
Since sausage is unsafe for dog’s consumption, you can offer them safer, healthier, and more tasty options, which include:
Plain chicken or turkey
One of the best alternatives to sausage is unseasoned and properly cooked chicken or turkey without skin and bones. This is a safer and tasty lean protein option for dogs. Only remember to offer it as a treat in moderate amounts.
Properly cooked vegetables
Vegetables like carrots and beans are great and healthy alternatives to sausage that your dog can munch on without the fear of getting sick. Again, moderation is key.
Sausage-style treats made specifically for dogs
According to PetMD, you can also offer sausage-style treats to your dog that are formulated specifically for dogs.
Conclusion
While you want to treat your dog with sausage or any other human food now and then, it is essential to understand that not all foods that are perfectly safe for you are fit for your pet’s consumption. So, before you introduce any food to your dog, remember to consult with your veterinarian and know if it has any nutritional value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Сan dogs eat cooked pork?
Yes, according to an article by the American Kennel Club, dogs can eat pork; however, make sure you offer it only in moderation. Also, keep the pork plain and simple without any seasonings and condiments.
Can dogs eat raw hot dogs?
No, dogs must not have raw hot dogs because they usually harbor bacteria in higher quantities, resulting in your dog getting sick.
Can dogs eat turkey sausage?
No, dogs should not be offered turkey sausage or bacon because they generally contain higher levels of sodium, preservatives, and other components that can be toxic to dogs.
Can dogs eat Vienna sausages?
No, you must avoid offering your dog fresh or canned Vienna sausages. These can cause harm to your dog's digestive system.
