Can dogs eat hot dogs? Maybe you’ve found yourself wondering if you could share a bite with your dog while scarfing down a bunch of hot dogs as part of a holiday barbecue. If humans can eat hot dogs, can dogs safely eat them too?
The short answer is no, dogs can’t eat hot dogs safely. Hot dogs might not necessarily be classified as toxic for dogs, but they are so high in sodium they are really not a suitable food for your pooch.
Additionally, hot dogs often contain many extra ingredients and additives that could prove to be harmful to your dog.
If your dog manages to eat a lot of hot dogs, you should call your veterinarian for advice. Here’s what you need to know about hot dogs and dogs.
Why Are Hot Dogs Bad For Dogs?
Hot dogs are a highly processed meat product that are very high in sodium. Consuming too much sodium puts your dog at risk of developing conditions such as high blood pressure and heart disease.
Additionally, if a dog eats too much sodium, they might experience dehydration or salt poisoning.
Beyond the high sodium levels found in hot dogs, the food is also usually made with additional additives and ingredients that are not a good fit for dogs.
Some of these additions include monosodium glutamate (MSG), sodium nitrate and extra sugar. These are all ingredients that you want to keep out of your dog’s diet.
Finally, many of the toppings that humans add to hot dogs, such as onions and relish, can be harmful to dogs.
What Should I Do If My Dog Eats Hot Dogs?
If you notice that your dog has taken a bite of a hot dog, don’t panic. Your dog will most probably be okay. Just make sure they don’t eat any more, and keep an eye out for any symptoms of salt poisoning such as diarrhea, vomiting, and drinking lots more water than usual.
If you see your dog scarfing down a bunch of hot dogs, it’s probably best to consult with your vet. Depending on your dog’s age, size, and medical history, they will be able to advise you on whether you need to seek out immediate medical care.
Has your dog ever snacked on hot dogs? How did they feel afterwards? Let us know in the comments below!
