Can dogs eat pickles?
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Can Dogs Eat Pickles? Will pickles make my dog sick?
Can dogs eat pickles? Perhaps a pickle accidentally fell on the floor and your dog ate it in a flash! Now you’re reading this article. Humans love a nice crunchy pickle, but are pickles safe for dogs to eat?
TLDR: It depends on what type of pickle, but you should exercise caution and avoid feeding your dog pickles.
Many pickles have a high sodium content, and spiced with various delicious (for humans) ingredients. Unfortunately, some of these ingredients could pose a problem to your dog’s health. Plain Dill pickles are not harmful for dogs to eat, but they have little health benefits. Dill and cucumbers may be fine for dogs, but onions and garlic are not! As always, consult with your vet before sharing any human foods with your dog, including pickles.
Even if the particular spices and peppers used in the pickles aren’t toxic for your dog, there is a good chance your pooch could experience gastrointestinal issues
Food for thought: according to the Board on Agriculture and Natural Resources ( a division of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences and National Research Council), Healthy dogs weighing 33 pounds should consume no more than 100 mg of sodium a day. one medium-sized dill pickle can contain approximately 700 – 1,500 milligrams of sodium!
But my dog really wants a pickle
If you must feed your dog pickles, then opt for sweet pickles. These are a better choice than the heavily spiced pickles, and the brine liquid is not as concentrated. Additionally, you should ensure that your dog has plenty of fresh water available if you wish your pup to have a taste. Keep it to a minimum though, your dog shouldn’t eat too many of them, or eat them too often.
Keep in mind that sugar is awful for dogs and can prompt diabetes, weight gain, and cavities. Look for pickles that contain minimal amount of sugar. Steer clear of artificial sweeteners, ex Xylitol, which is a manufactured sweetener that is poisonous to dogs.
Play it safe, consider feeding your dog fresh cucumbers instead. Just do so in moderation, as fresh cucumbers can leave your dog with loose stools.
What About Pickle Juice? Is It Safe For Dogs?
No, pickle juice is packed full of vinegar, flavors and copious amounts of sodium, which are conceivably hazardous. Pickle juice is simply not good for dogs.
What Should I Do If My Dog Ate Pickles?
If your dog accidentally ate a few pickles, don’t worry, just check what type of pickle your dog ate and contact your veterinarian. Your vet will make a recommendation based on the type and amount of pickles eaten.
In case your dog has eaten a large amount of pickles, especially ones you know contain onion, garlic, contact your local emergency vet. They will advise you on the best course of action.
