Can Dogs Eat Sausage?

The answer to the question, “Can dogs eat sausage?” is yes, but we highly recommend avoiding giving your furry friends sausages.

It is not a good source of protein for your pet because it is high in saturated fat and salt and may contain other harmful seasonings.

As per a statement issued by the AAFCO, the quantity of sodium and chloride in dogs’ food should be less than 0.3% and 0.45%, respectively.

However, a few little pieces of dog sausage as a special treat should be fine occasionally.

As you know now, the answer to the question, let’s have a more detailed look into everything you need to know as a good dog owner.

Why Is Sausage Bad For Dogs?

beagle dog stealing some sausage from the kitchen

Although it could be alluring, giving your dog a piece or two of sausage is not a good idea.

Don’t give in, even when your dog gives you those vast, sorrowful, pleading eyes.

Your dog should avoid the sausage primarily due to its high-fat content.

Raw sausage is bad for dogs because it can have up to 50% fat.

This can result in obesity later in life and diabetes, heart disease, stomach aches (upset stomach), kidney damage, and pancreatitis.

Also, sausage is frequently high in salt content, which is harmful to dogs.

Foods with a high salt content are basically bad for your dog.

We also talk about this topic when it comes to whether your dog can eat pretzels.

In addition, sausage may also contain garlic, red pepper flakes, and onions, which are incredibly detrimental to puppies since they can kill the dog’s red blood cells.

What Happens If My Dog Eats Too Much Sausage?

many sausages

“Can dogs eat sausage” is now answered with a clear NO, if your furry friend’s health is important to you (and for sure, it is!).

But, what will happen to furry friends if they eat sausages in large quantities?

Because, to be honest, that can even happen by accident.

Even if we don’t hope it will happen.

But if it does, the symptoms can change based on the kind of sausage and how much your dog consumes.

However, getting in touch with your vet could be good if you detect any strange symptoms.

These are some signs you might experience:

  • Vomiting

  • Nausea

  • Diarrhea

  • Loss of appetite

  • Lethargy

  • Restless

  • Dehydration

Your dog might be alright if it only had a tiny quantity to eat.

However, take them to the doctor if strange symptoms and behaviors last more than a day.

What Should I Do If My Dog Eats Too Much Sausage?

dog stealing sausages from kitchen

Most important: you shouldn’t freak out if you discover that your dog stole some sausage.

There probably won’t be any adverse reactions from a tiny amount.

What to do if your dog eats sausage?

Give your dog plenty of water because sausage can cause dehydration, and as we already know, dehydration can also lead to headaches.

Watch for signs of probable salt poisoning, such as diarrhea, vomiting, and drinking excessive water.

However, if your dog eats more sausage, talk to your veterinarian.

They will inquire about your dog’s symptoms and how many sausages they may have eaten, and they will be able to suggest ways to make sure your dog heals properly.

hand giving black dog treats

When Do I Need To Contact My Vet?

Check the package to find out exactly what was in the juicy delight.

Keep an eye out for any modifications in your dog, such as a lack of enthusiasm, drooling, nausea, weakness, lack of coordination, vomiting, pale gums, an elevated heart rate, difficulty breathing and excessive panting, discolored urine, red blood cell deficiency, and gastrointestinal pain.

Give your pet lots of water to prevent dehydration and diarrhea, which are also signs of garlic and onion poisoning.

To determine the best course of action, speak with your veterinarian.

Conclusion: Can Dogs Eat Sausage?

hand holding sausage in front of dogs face

The short answer is: they can, indeed, but dogs shouldn’t eat sausages.

Cooked meat is healthy food for your dog’s health, but feeding processed sausages to the dog is not a good idea.

It might be detrimental to a dog’s health. It can lead to a variety of health problems in dogs.

Giving your dog a bit of sausage won’t hurt him, but giving him a whole sausage runs the danger of having multiple negative repercussions.

Among other things, it can lead to obesity, anemia, cardiac issues, and gastrointestinal issues.

Dogs can technically eat sausage, but that doesn’t mean they should.

Even though it could smell and taste delicious for your pet, it is quite fatty and salty, which is terrible for your dog’s health.

Dogs shouldn’t be given sausage frequently or in excessive quantities because it will likely make them ill and raise their risk of diseases, including pancreatitis, obesity, and cancer.

However, sausage isn’t poisonous, so your dog shouldn’t suffer long-term consequences from grabbing a dropped piece or enjoying the occasional nibble.

Before You Go…

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

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

Mena Emad, DVM
Mena has a Bachelor’s degree in veterinary medicine. His expertise, passion for animal welfare, extensive knowledge, and experience in the field of veterinary medicine make him an excellent resource for our readers.