I want to point this out for the record – sausage is literally one of the worst meats for dogs. Why? I’m glad you asked. Sausage is high in fat, salty, and contains other ingredients that won’t agree with your dog’s stomach. So, it’s a no-go.
Why is Sausage Bad for Dogs?
Here’s why you’ll get a resounding no every time you ask if it’s okay to feed your dog sausage:
- High-Fat Content: Sausage is rich in fat and this makes it hard for your dogs to digest them properly but that’s just one problem. The other is much worse – it can lead to pancreatitis
- High Sodium Content: Large amounts of salt are a staple in sausage because it’s both a preservative and flavor enhancer, neither of which will do your dog any good. So when they feed on sausage, they may suffer from dehydration or sodium ion poisoning.
- Harmful Ingredients: Sausages are usually prepared with ingredients such as onions and garlic which are unhealthy for your dogs as they can severely damage their red blood cells and cause hemolytic anemia. Another ingredient to watch out for is nutmeg because it can be harmful when consumed in large amounts.
What should I do if my dog eats a sausage?
First things first, observe your pet to see if they will show any symptoms. A small amount of plain sausage in their system may not cause harm immediately, but if you’re a sucker for taking no chances, give your vet a ring.
Symptoms to look out for if my dog eats a sausage
Just in case, you don’t know what you’re observing your pooch for, here are the common symptoms your dog will show if they accidentally eat sausages:
- Abdominal Pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Loss of Appetite
How to feed sausage to your dog
Now, don’t get too excited already, this is for those whose vets approve a small amount of this meat for their dogs. So, if you fall into this category, do this to be on the safe side:
Give Them Small Portions: Just in case you have ideas already, the above tips don’t make sausage a good treat, they just make it safer for your pets. And they won’t even matter if you decide to feed your dogs portions that are larger than they should eat. A single bite or two at most is enough.
Choose Sausages with Low Fat and Salt Content: Go for sausages that have minimal fat and salt like turkey or chicken sausages.
Go for Plain Varieties: Always feed your pet sausages that are plain – no added seasonings, spices, or condiments like onions or garlic.
Remove Casings: Sausage casings can choke your pup or even mess with their intestines. For this reason, I advise removing it carefully before feeding the meat to your dogs.
Healthy alternatives to sausage for your dogs
- Cooked, Lean Meats: Give your pets boiled/baked chicken or turkey breast (without the skin or bones)
- Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: You can’t go wrong with options like carrots, green beans, sweet potatoes, and apples.
FAQS
Can my dogs eat raw sausages?
That’s a big no. The only meat worse than cooked sausage is raw sausage because the latter is brimming with harmful microbes.
Can my dogs eat summer sausage?
At this point, I may sound like a hater of sausages but again, the answer is no.
Can my dogs eat sausage patties?
Ideally, you shouldn’t feed your dogs sausage patties whether it’s beef, pork, or turkey. However, if your vet says it’s safe, then maybe a small bite of plain sausage patty, but only on rare occasions.
Can my dogs eat beef sausages?
A resounding no and it’s for the same reason as the others.
What kind of sausage can my dogs eat?
The only sausages your pet can eat are the ones your vet approves and that will most likely be plain, cooked chicken or turkey sausages.
Final words
I must admit that the aroma of sausages is tempting and it can be a nightmare to stay away, but please have it at the back of your mind that sausages are unhealthy for your pooch. Their high fat and sodium content and the presence of onions and garlic make it a sweet poison, but thankfully, there are much safer and healthier alternatives for your furry pal. That’s what you should be giving them as treats.
Read More: Can Dogs Eat Hamburger?
