Can Dogs Eat Jalapenos?

No, dogs shouldn’t eat jalapenos.

But there is more to the question, “Can dogs eat jalapenos?”.

We show you everything you need to know to be a good dog owner.

Read on!

Why Are Jalapenos Bad For Dogs?

red and green jalapenos cutted

“Why can’t dogs eat jalapenos?” is frequently asked by pet owners who love their canine friends.

Instead of giving their dogs hot human foods (spicy) like jalapeno chips, raw jalapenos, or pickled jalapenos, dog owners should give their dogs wholesome commercial or homemade dog food.

If your dog eats jalapenos, some unfavorable effects could happen, such as:

Excessive Thirst And Bloating

Jalapenos can make your pup thirsty because of the capsaicin-induced burning sensation.

They might consume too much water, causing bloating and discomfort in their stomachs.

Stomach Issues

Consuming jalapenos or hot chili peppers can aggravate your dog’s digestive system or lead to stomach ulcers.

Vomiting And Diarrhea

Jalapenos can cause harmful reactions in dogs, including vomiting, diarrhea, and other problems.

What Should I Do If My Dog Eats A Jalapeno?

If your dog already started or already ate a jalapeno (or even more), your options are limited.

Just prepare for the consequences.

To prevent dehydration, ensure he is as comfortable as possible and always has access to clean water.

As you know, giving your dog access to water is always important, not just if he is dehydrated.

There is a strict rule on how much water he needs and how long dogs can go without water.

If your dog is dehydrated, his brain will temporarily shrink due to fluid loss if he is not properly hydrated. This will cause your dog’s head to ache, resulting in excruciating headaches.

woman giving water bowl to her dog and petting him

Get your furry friend to the vet if his illness or diarrhea lasts more than 48 hours.

This might be because his body overreacted to it or because it hurt the lining of his digestive system internally; alternately, it might be that some unrelated issue is to blame.

What Could Happen To My Dog After Eating Jalapenos?

Everything depends on how frequently and how sensitively your dog eats spicy foods.

Some dogs might not experience anything, mainly if they only take a small amount and are on the larger side.

However, it’s not uncommon to read about dogs who eat jalapenos developing various adverse side effects.

Examples of side effects include constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, and digestive problems such as pain and inflammation.

You may notice one or more of the following symptoms if your dog becomes ill after consuming jalapenos or other spicy peppers:

  • Diarrhea

  • Vomiting

  • Stomach pain

  • Loss of appetite

  • Unnormal panting

  • Loud tummy noises (gurgling and rumbling)

  • More than ordinary laziness or depressed

  • Lack of exercise

dog lying on the floor looking very sad

If your dog shows any of these symptoms, it makes sense to seek assistance from your veterinarian.

If medical attention is required, this could entail anything from home medicine or injections to a hospital stay and a drip.

Is There Anything I Can Feed My Dog To Counteract The Spiciness?

You can try feeding him a natural treatment, such as unflavored oatmeal or canned pumpkin, to aid his diarrhea.

This frequently aids in binding him up with additional fiber.

Attempt putting a few tablespoons of cow’s milk in his water bowl.

This will not only assist in calming his stomach lining but also motivate him to drink extra water to compensate for the lost fluids.

dog eating pumpkin and oats

Conclusion: Can Dogs Eat Jalapeno?

So, can dogs eat jalapenos?

They can, but it’s a food that dogs shouldn’t eat, as it may make them sick.

Although jalapenos are not toxic to dogs, eating them can upset stomachs.

Even though a tiny amount of jalapeno is unlikely to cause too much harm, some dogs will react more severely than others and might require medical attention to feel better.

A dog’s digestive system is not designed to eat spicy foods.

You should consult your veterinarian for recommendations if your dog ate a jalapeno.

In conclusion, dogs can occasionally eat jalapenos.

Your dog might be able to consume a few cooked jalapenos or a slice of this hot pepper in moderation, but don’t let them consume the plant’s stems and leaves.

Call your veterinarian immediately if you experience diarrhea after eating too many of these meals; they can offer you medicine for your stomachaches and any other gastrointestinal diseases you might experience.

Furthermore, if you don’t know what else is in the meal, avoid serving your spicy dog food like jalapenos or chili peppers!

There are onions in those street tacos; even while they don’t sense spice as we do, it can eventually harm their health.

Before You Go…

Now you know the answer to the question, “Can dogs eat jalapenos?”.

If you want to learn more, read the following articles too!

Dimitra Kokologianni, DVM
Dimitra holds a Masters’s degree in public health and a Bachelor’s degree in veterinary medicine. She is a versatile professional with over 7 years of experience. Her passion for animal welfare and preventive medicine makes her an excellent resource for our readers.