Can dogs eat soy sauce? Maybe you’ve found yourself wondering if your dog could have a taste this while adding soy sauce to a weeknight stir fry to pep up a quick and convenient dinner. If humans can eat soy sauce, can dogs safely eat it too?
The short answer is no, dogs can’t eat soy sauce safely. The answer isn’t because of the presence of soy in soy sauce or due to any potential soy allergies; it’s simply because soy sauce is so high in sodium.
Consuming too much sodium could put your dog at risk of salt poisoning, among other issues.
If your dog manages to consume soy sauce, call your veterinarian for advice. Here’s what you need to know about soy sauce and dogs.
Why Is Soy Sauce Bad For Dogs?
Soybeans and wheat make up most of the ingredients in a bottle of soy sauce. Obviously if your dog has a soy allergy or a wheat allergy then you should keep soy sauce well away from their chops.
But it’s actually the sheer amount of sodium in soy sauce that makes it an awful choice to feed to any dog.
Consuming too much sodium can put your dog at risk of developing issues such as high blood pressure and heart disease. Too much sodium can also lead to salt poisoning, and soy sauce definitely contains enough sodium to put your dog at risk.
Additionally, a high sodium diet increases the chances of a dog suffering from neurological issues and kidney problems.
So keep soy sauce well away from your pooch, even if they show an interest in trying to sneak a taste.
What Should I Do If My Dog Eats Soy Sauce?
Unfortunately, the sodium content of soy sauce is so high that it only takes a small amount to put your dog at risk. Some estimates suggest that as little as a teaspoon of soy sauce can bring on symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, and even seizures.
So if you notice that your dog has consumed soy sauce, it’s vital that you make sure there is sufficient fresh water available, and you really need to encourage them to drink the water.
If you see that your dog continues to have issues with urinating more than usual or needing to drink much more water than usual, consult with your veterinarian.
Has your dog ever tried to sneak a taste of soy sauce? Did they feel sick afterwards? Let us know in the comments below!
