Can Dogs Eat Pickles?
Can Dogs Have Pickles?
Can Dogs Eat Pickles? One of the most common, the dill pickle, is a cucumber that has been brined (typically using vinegar, water, and salt) and seasoned with dill, a fresh herb that is rich in antioxidants. If you’d like to have your dog experience the benefits that the herb has to offer, Dr. Fox recommends adding fresh dill to your dog’s diet.
Other varieties of pickles, including bread-and-butter variety, are sweeter. Constructed from cucumbers, brine, peppers, onions, garlic, sugar, and spices, they have components that prove to be unhealthy for canines. “Garlic and onions are poisonous to dogs and damage their red blood cells, resulting in anemia,” comments Dr. Lucas White, a veterinarian at Sunset Veterinary Clinic in Edmond, Oklahoma, notes that although these pickles probably don’t contain enough garlic or onion to harm your dog, it’s safest to avoid giving them to your pet.
The hot-and-spicy pickles are a different type, usually created with cucumber, brine, chili pepper, and spices. These would be difficult on a dog’s stomach. After all, dogs are not accustomed to the intake of hot foods, and this can lead to GI upset, which can make your dog vomit or suffer from doggie diarrhea.
Are Pickles Safe for My Dog?
Can Dogs Eat Pickles? In addition to the spices, the excessive sodium content can be particularly harmful to dogs with pre-existing medical conditions. Dr. Fox further states that taking a large quantity of sodium over a short period can result in side effects. Your dog can suffer from seizures, excessive thirst, vomiting, diarrhea, or ataxia (loss of balance).
Sodium is a vital component of a dog’s diet. A minimal amount is required for regular body function, and if sodium levels get too low, it can be risky, putting the body and brain in jeopardy. Commercial dry dog food should have a minimum of 0.3% of sodium, according to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), which provides for maintenance, growth, and development in the body.
Can Dogs Have Sweet Pickles?
Sweet pickles, bread and butter pickles, and other pickles all have added sugars, and although not poisonous, are not good for dogs.
Sugar can cause all sorts of health problems such as yeast infections, diabetes, weight gain and tooth problems … and it can encourage bad gut bacteria that causes leaky gut, which is the cause of many chronic illnesses.
So the best decision is to avoid sweet pickles.
Can Dogs Have Corn
Can Dogs Eat Pickles? Whereas corn per se is fine, corn on the cob is to be avoided.
“Though they’re not toxic, corn cobs are a problem,” Flint states. “They’re famous for causing intestinal blockages.”
She continues that quite a few dogs will grab corn cobs (and other foods) from open trash bags or cans either the day of a barbecue or a day or two afterward.
“A lot of individuals who call in to the Pet Poison Helpline indicate that they were extremely careful throughout the food service, and that generally indicates that they’ve had a large trash can out for guests to dispose of items in.”
Can Dogs Eat Fruit Salad?
“Apples and watermelon are popular treats for many dogs,” Wismer continues, but any fruit salad that contains grapes or raisins in it are not canine-safe.
Can Dogs Eat Pickles? Grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs and can lead to kidney failure, Flint adds, and eating or suspected eating — which could take the form of vomiting, lethargy, and/or failure to urinate within a few hours — of grapes or raisins necessitates a call to the vet or a veterinary toxicologist immediately.
Pickle juice contains a strong mix of spices and salt used in the pickling process. It’s not recommended for dogs because of its high sodium content and the potential presence of harmful ingredients.
Sodium toxicity is a major concern, as you’ve already read above … so if your dog has somehow ingested a huge volume of pickle juice, it can be hazardous. Call your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline for assistance as your dog might require treatment such as IV fluids. You can also ensure he consumes lots of water to assist in flushing the salt from his system, and monitor for the signs of sodium poisoning we mentioned above.
What Happens If a Dog Eats a Pickle?
If your dog ingests a pickle accidentally, observe them for signs of illness or discomfort. Symptoms to observe are:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Increased thirst or urination
- Loss of appetite
- Seizures or tremors (in severe instances of sodium poisoning)
Observe these symptoms and call your veterinarian if you see them.
Cucumbers vs. Pickles for Dogs
Can Dogs Eat Pickles? Cucumbers make a healthy and tasty treat for dogs. They contain few calories while being packed with essential vitamins and minerals. But the pickling process incorporates additional salt and other possibly toxic ingredients, so pickles are not as good a choice.
Expert Insights From Spot
Can Dogs Eat Pickles? Much as we adore to share the foods that we like with our pets, we have to keep in mind that not all the human foods are safe for consumption by dogs. Spot’s own statistics indicate that pet insurance claims for pets due to dietary indiscretions amount to $642*, a reminder of the necessity of care and research prior to sharing treats with our pets.
Conclusion
Although pickles aren’t directly poisonous to dogs, they aren’t a suitable snack. Their high salt levels and possible harmful additives make them a poor option for your pet. Opt for safe, nutritious treats to keep your dog healthy and happy.
