Pepperoni is a soft red meat-based topping made from pork and beef trimmings blended with seasonings and spices. So can dogs eat pepperoni? No, and this applies to all variations and types of pepperoni, including pepperoni jerky, turkey, sticks, or even pepperoni pizza. Below are some reasons why you should keep pepperoni away from your dog.
What makes Pepperoni Unsuitable For Dogs
High in Preservatives
Salt is used to preserve pepperoni because it reduces moisture in the preserved meat and inhibits bacterial growth. Feeding your dog large amounts of pepperoni increases their risk of salt poisoning. This high salt content can cause high blood pressure and dehydration.
Apart from salt, other sodium nitrates are used to preserve and add color and flavor to this meat. Unlike the dietary nitrates found in spinach that are harmless to dogs, the nitrates found in cured meats can be converted to nitric oxide. Dogs with mammary tumors will be harmed by nitric oxide.
High in Saturated Fats
A solid reason health experts frown on processed meats like pepperoni is that they contain high levels of saturated fats. Saturated fats will not cause heart problems because dogs have high levels of good cholesterol than humans. The principal risks of saturated fats in dogs are diabetes, pancreatitis, and an upset stomach.
The fatty nature of pepperoni makes it the wrong choice for Great Dane or a Chihuahua. Experts response to; can dogs eat pepperoni is a resounding no, and it is suggested that you feed your canine more nutritious and healthy fat options such as chicken.
High in Calories
The caloric requirements for each dog differ in terms of breed, age, weight, lifestyle, and health conditions. Senior dogs have lower caloric needs as opposed to active, younger dogs.
Adding pepperoni to your dog’s diet could lead to excess calories than they require daily and lead to obesity. Overweight dogs are at a higher risk of getting heart diseases and arthritis.
Spices and Pepper
Here, the seasonings we are most concerned with are those from the Allium family, including garlic, chives, shallots, and onions. Pepperoni is seasoned with onion and garlic powder because these spices add a rich flavor and aroma. The powdered garlic and onion are even more poisonous to dogs than when the herbs are in their fresh state.
The lack of moisture in the dried spices makes them more potent and is likely to be used in high amounts to achieve maximum flavor in the pepperoni. Garlic and onion toxicity impairs red blood cells, which leads to anaemia and eventually kidney failure. Although not precisely toxic, the pepper in pepperoni will irritate your dog’s stomach and cause diarrhea and excessive gas.
Did You Know?
Green beans are a healthy vegetable, however, not necessarily the favorite of many people. But did you ever think about if dogs like it – or if it’s good for them? Can Dogs Eat Green Beans?
Is Pepperoni Safe For Dogs?
When it comes to the question of; can dogs eat pepperoni? The evidence is quite clear that it is not recommended. If your pup does eat a little too much pepperoni, here are symptoms you should be keen on;
- Increased thirst
- Increased urination
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal pains
- Changes in body temperatures
- Seizures
- Muscle tremors
If your dog has any of these symptoms, you should take them to a vet as soon as possible. For mild stomach upset, vets recommend that you withhold food for at least 12 hrs after your dog eats pepperoni. You should add probiotics and fibre to their food, water, and boiled bland diets to provide relief.
If these options do not resolve the problem within three days, seek professional help. You should note that an upset stomach could indicate other underlying health issues and appropriate measures need to be taken.
Avoid Giving Your Dog Pepperoni
Even though some people may argue that pepperoni is a good source of protein for dogs seeing as it’s a type of meat, the disadvantages outweigh the benefits by a whole lot. The nature of pepperoni makes it an unhealthy and unsafe option of nutrition for dogs.
Do You Know?
Lots of snacks are safe for dogs, but some snacks you should just not give your pet. We sat down and did some research and our vet has verified it: Can Dogs Eat Pecans?
