We all know that BBQ sauce is a favorite condiment for many people. But can dogs have BBQ sauce? The answer is no, unfortunately. The high sugar and salt content in barbecue sauce can be harmful to your dog’s health. Some of the ingredients in barbecue sauce are also harmful for dogs like onions, garlic and other spices. It might not seem like much but these ingredients can cause stomach upset or even worse if they eat too much at once!
This can be a problem for those of us who love to let our dogs share in everything we’re eating. It’s not as bad if they eat some scraps from your plate but definitely do not give them any sauce! Of course, it is fine to have the occasional treat so long as you know what goes into that food and how much should go into their diet. Unless you are careful about moderation, one bite could lead to an upset stomach or worse. Talk with your veterinarian before introducing any new foods or treats into your dog’s routine just in case there might be allergies present also.
One other note: many people think BBQ sauce is good because it has vinegar which makes it sour tasting like meat; however this isn’t necessarily true.
If the can has added sugar do not give it to your dog.
It is fine to have the occasional treat so long as you know what goes into that food and how much should go into their diet. Unless you are careful about moderation, one bite could lead to an upset stomach or worse. Talk with your veterinarian before introducing any new foods or treats into your dog’s routine just in case there might be allergies present also.
Before giving them anything new ensure they don’t need a vet check-up first!
If they’re already comfortable with eating certain things then it’s worth a shot.
When giving your dog bbq sauce, it is important to know that they can’t have too much. They won’t be able to handle the sugar and may get an upset stomach or worse! You should never give them more than a teaspoon of any food without checking with their vet first!!
If you do decide to let him try some though make sure he doesn’t eat anymore than one teaspoon without consulting his veterinarian as even healthy dogs can not tolerate this level of sweetness.
If you want your dog’s fur smelling like BBQ and feel free on occasion but don’t overdo it! It could easily lead to vomiting if uncontrolled because there are so many different flavors that dogs can’t take in large quantities.
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“Treats are always a good thing but make sure they don’t eat too many or it could lead to vomiting.”
“If you do decide to let him try some though make sure he doesn’t eat anymore than one teaspoon without consulting his veterinarian as even healthy dogs can not tolerate this level of sweetness.”
If your dog does happen to vomit after eating BBQ, contact a vet immediately! The sugar levels will be high enough that it might cause an upset stomach.
“It can also lead to diarrhea, dehydration and even pancreatitis.”
A healthy dog will usually be fine after vomiting but if your pup has eaten anything else that could have caused this problem then you should contact a vet. You’re best bet is to not give them any other treats for the rest of the day so they don’t throw up again. “Some people may think it’s funny when their pup throws up, but try telling that same person about how much time was spent frantically trying to clean it all off your carpets or furniture.” It might seem like fun at first, but trust us: It’s no joke!
“If dogs eat too many bbq chips or pieces in one sitting,” says Dr. Regan, “they can develop pancreatitis.”
“Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas that usually occurs after a dog has eaten something it shouldn’t have. In dogs with pancreatitis, their pancreases become inflamed and release too many digestive enzymes into the bloodstream. This leads to vomiting and diarrhea as well.”
The vet suggests giving your pup yogurt or apple cider vinegar to help settle them down if they are experiencing any gastrointestinal issues due to bbq sauce ingestion.
To make sure you’re not putting yourself in this situation again:
Keep BBQ sauces away from pups! (or at least put them up high)
Feeding dogs pieces of meat cooked on the grill can also be risky, but if you do plan on doing this always supervise your furry friend!
“BBQ sauce can be dangerous because it contains high amounts of salt,” says Dr. Regan, “which isn’t good for puppies with sensitive stomachs or chronic kidney disease who rely on limited sodium diets.”
