It is safe to say that dogs consume meat, but what kind of meat is beneficial to your dog and what meat could potentially be harmful? Some dog owners swear that a raw food diet is the best choice when feeding their four-legged friend. However, if you’re wondering if it is ok to give dogs sausages; the answer varies.
Depending on what type of sausage you allow your dog to consume will either contribute to its health, or perhaps hinder it.
Here we will talk about what happens if a dog eats raw sausage and provide you with some beneficial information to help you make that decision to feed it to them, or steer clear altogether.
Can My Dog Eat Pork Sausage? (raw)
Pork sausage in small amounts is acceptable. A bite here and there is not going to harm your dog. However, do not rely on it as a main source of protein, and do not feed sausage in large quantities. Sausage, in itself, is generally high in sodium, fat, and saturated fat. Breakfast sausages are known to have not only all of the above, but other spices that might not be agreeable to your dog’s digestive system.
Another known fact about raw sausage, it can contain bacteria or even parasites. Humans have to thoroughly cook raw sausage to eliminate the bad stuff before consumption. So, if you think of it that way, would you want to give your dog raw sausage, when you yourself won’t eat it?
It’s true that dogs do eat raw meat, and generally won’t have any adverse reaction to it, the possibility of dangerous bacteria is greater with raw sausage therefore it’s recommended to cook it before giving it to your dog.
That being said, there are certain sausages or hot dogs that are pre-cooked or partially cooked. Little Smokies come in a package and can either be eaten cold or hot. Should you feed your dog Smokies? Probably not a good idea, but as a treat once in a while, it is fine. Can you eat Smokies raw? Absolutely, though, just like anything, consider moderation. Smokies should not be considered a primary food source for your dog. They also are high in sodium, fat, and other unhealthy ingredients.
It’s important to investigate all ingredients before you allow your dog to eat it. Just because a dog will be more than happy to chow down on the tasty morsel, doesn’t mean it should be fed.
Unlike other meats, such as chicken, beef, or even the organs, sausage contains other ingredients that could be harmful to your dog.
What Happens if a Dog Eats Pork Sausage?
Eating a small amount most likely won’t have an adverse effect on a dog. However, large quantities could cause harm, especially in smaller dogs. As mentioned, raw pork sausage is high in sodium and other fats. Sodium in itself can cause dehydration. In very severe cases, a dog consuming large amounts of raw pork sausage or any raw sausage for that matter, could cause kidney problems.
Related Questions
Can Dogs Eat Raw Sausage Skin?
This would mainly depend on whether the skins were made out of natural ingredients such as intestinal tracts of livestock. Other skins are made out of Collagen, plastics, or other ingredients such as cellulose. These such artificial ingredients might not be easily digestible for your dog, and therefore, might be passed in their feces or cause some harmful intestinal issues such as blockage.
Can Dogs Eat Raw Breakfast Sausage?
Though people have been known to give their dog raw breakfast sausage, it is not recommended. Breakfast sausage not only contains high sodium amounts, it also contains other spices and ingredients that could potentially upset your dog’s stomach.