Can Dogs Eat Sausage?

Yes and no. It really depends on the type of sausage, how it’s prepared, and the other ingredients. Some sausages are especially dangerous when raw because of the risk of parasite infections like Trichinosis.

Plain, cooked sausages can be okay as an occasional treat in small amounts. However, you should avoid sausages that contain garlic, onions, or other spices, as these can be harmful to dogs. Raw sausages have a risk of potential parasite infections like Trichinosis.

Highly processed sausages, like hot dogs, often contain high levels of salt, fat, and preservatives, which aren’t good for dogs. Specialty sausages, like Chorizo or Italian sausages, usually have lots of spices and seasonings that can also be unhealthy to dogs.

In this article, we will break down types of sausages, whether dogs can have them as a special treat, and some things to watch out for.

Can dogs eat chicken and turkey sausages?

Yes, dogs can eat chicken and turkey sausages, but only cooked and without tons of spices. Raw chicken and turkey sausages can pose a risk of Trichinosis, a parasitic infection caused by the Trichinella worm. This infection can cause symptoms like diarrhea, abdominal pain, muscle soreness, fever, and, in severe cases, inflammation of the heart or brain.

Besides cooking, you also need to pay attention to the amount of sausage in your dog’s diet. Feeding your dog too much sausage, even if it’s cooked, can lead to problems like obesity, pancreatitis, and digestive issues due to the high fat and sodium content. If your dog occasionally steals a sausage from the kitchen counter, it’s unlikely to cause serious harm, but it shouldn’t become a regular habit.

You should also talk to your vet about it, but come prepared as they will probably tell you that sausages are human food only, not meant for dogs as they are not the lean protein they need. Again, as an occasional treat, it’s okay, but in my house, we don’t share sausages with our dog.

Can dogs eat pork sausages?

Unlike chicken and turkey sausages, pork sausages are really not okay for dogs, even as an occasional treat. I have had dogs all my life, and every single one of them, including Ricco (my German Spitz) and Iris (my parent’s Siberian Samoyed), had issues with pork sausages as they almost always had diarrhea.

That’s because pork sausages often contain high levels of fat and sodium, and that combination is the worst for pancreatitis, but then also obesity and heart problems in dogs. Additionally, many pork sausages are seasoned with garlic, onions, and other spices that are toxic to dogs in huge amount, and in small amounts cause digestive upset.

Similar to chicken and turkey, raw pork sausages also come with a risk of Trichinosis. So, if you’re cooking some pork sausages for yourself and want to share them with your dog, start with a small piece and see how they react. It can be your special treat for them, and if they end up with a runny poo like my dogs, you can switch to chicken and turkey instead.

Now, as you may imagine, dogs do love sausages, so if they occasionally steal your pork sausages and eat a ton, they will be okay. Even a lot of sausages won’t cause serious harm, but it shouldn’t become a regular habit, as you’ll probably have to deal with diarrhea.

A look at dogs eating raw sausages

I’ve already mentioned the main concern — Trichinosis, a parasitic infection caused by the Trichinella worm, which can be present in raw pork and other meats. Trichinosis is a specific concern with raw pork sausages. Dogs can contract this parasitic infection by consuming meat infected with Trichinella larvae. Symptoms of Trichinosis in dogs include gastrointestinal distress, muscle pain, fever, and, in severe cases, inflammation of the heart and brain. But there are other risks!

Raw sausages, including varieties like bratwurst, Italian sausage, and general pork sausages, can harbor harmful bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli. These pathogens can cause severe digestive upset in dogs, leading to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Even a small amount of raw sausage can trigger these symptoms due to the bacteria and high-fat content.

The chances are that your meat from the supermarket or the butcher shop won’t be infected, but even with a super nice high-quality sausages, you need to know about digestive upset. Dogs can get pretty sick from eating raw sausages; they may vomit or have diarrhea. Also, when dogs eat foods rich in fat they can get sick with pancreatitis, which is an inflammation of the pancreas that causes belly pain, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Types of raw sausages and risks

Raw bratwurst and Italian sausage: These types typically include spices and seasonings that are harmful to dogs, in addition to the risks of raw meat.
Raw pork sausage: Specifically dangerous due to the risk of Trichinosis.
Raw hot dogs: Often contain preservatives, salt, and seasonings that can be harmful, and the raw meat can carry bacteria, so don’t feed your dog with hot dogs regularly.
Raw Vienna sausages: Similar to hot dogs but often softer and more processed. They contain high levels of preservatives, salt, and seasonings that can be harmful to dogs. So you shouldn’t really give your dog Vienna sausages.
Raw beef sausage: Can contain harmful bacteria and sometimes spices or seasonings that are bad for dogs.
Raw soy (vegan) sausage: May contain ingredients like onions, garlic, or excessive salt that are harmful to dogs, even though they’re meat-free.

Don’t give your dog raw sausages

Giving your dog raw sausages isn’t a good idea because of the health risks. While an accidental bite might not be deadly, it can still cause serious stomach problems and infections.

Can dogs eat beef sausages?

Out of all the sausages that we analyzed here, beef sausages are probably the best and most healthy for dogs. However, they are still reserved to be a special treat rather than something you give your dog every week.

Similar to pork sausages, they also have lots of fat and can have lots of spices like pepper, chili, and garlic, which can upset your dog’s stomach (especially if you have a small dog).

If you decide to share some beef sausages with your dog, plain-cooked beef sausages are perfectly fine! Your dog will love you for this, but don’t overdo it!

And what about smoked ones? Can dogs eat beef smoked sausage?

Beef smoked sausages and other smoked sausages aren’t great dog treats. While a small piece might not hurt them, their stomachs are pretty sensitive to sodium. Smoked sausages also tend to have a lot of preservatives, and combined with the salt and fat, they can make your dog dehydrated and cause stomach problems.

Dogs and vegan & vegetarian sausages

If you’re vegan or vegetarian, you might be tempted to share your soy sausages and other plant-based treats with your dog. While it might seem like a healthy alternative to fatty meat sausages, many vegan sausages contain ingredients that aren’t safe for dogs, like onions, garlic, and too much salt.

It’s easy to get into the habit of sharing table scraps with our pets, but even these seemingly harmless bites can cause digestive problems or worse. We need to be careful and make smart choices about what we feed our dogs. Now, let’s dive into the types of vegan sausages and what you need to know about each.

Vegan and vegetarian sausages often include:

Soy protein: A high-quality protein source, but one that some dogs may be allergic to.

Pea protein: Another plant-based protein that is generally well-tolerated by dogs.

Grains and vegetables: Provide fiber and various nutrients, though not always necessary for dogs.

Oils and fats: Usually vegetable oils, which are less suitable for dogs compared to animal fats.

Spices and preservatives: These can be problematic as certain spices and additives are toxic to dogs.

Dogs may react differently to vegan and vegetarian sausages depending on the ingredients. While some dogs might benefit from the protein boost and enjoy these sausages as an occasional treat, others might experience digestive upset, allergies, or adverse reactions to certain ingredients like soy or spices. Common symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, itching, or lethargy.

Can dogs eat soy sausage?

Soy sausages are a common type of vegan sausage, made primarily from soy protein.

While dogs can eat soy in moderation, it’s important to understand that soy is not a natural part of a dog’s diet. Also, some dogs might be allergic to soy.

Specialty sausages

We adore specialty sausages like Bologna, Chorizo, Pepperoni, Salami, and Slim Jims for their distinct flavors and textures. These sausages are not toxic to dogs, meaning they don’t contain ingredients that are immediately harmful.

However, they are generally not recommended for regular consumption by dogs due to their high-fat content, spiciness, and variety of seasonings they contain. Dogs typically adore these sausages, so it’s really up to you to keep them away!

Let’s look at some of the most popular sausages and how dogs react to them!

Bologna is a type of finely ground pork sausage that is often high in fat and sodium. While a small bite of Bologna won’t harm your dog, it’s not a healthy treat. And if it’s a regular thing on your dog’s menu, over time, they may consume too many calories, which can lead to obesity and stomach issues since Bologna is high in fat and sodium. If your dog loves Bologna, it’s best to offer it very sparingly and in small amounts.
Chorizo is a spicy sausage that typically contains garlic, onions, and various spices that are harmful to dogs. Even a small amount can cause digestive upset and other health issues. It’s best to avoid giving your dog Chorizo altogether to prevent any negative reactions.
Pepperoni is another spicy sausage that is high in fat and sodium. While it’s not toxic, feeding your dog pepperoni can lead to stomach issues and long-term health problems if given frequently. A small piece on rare occasions won’t harm them, but it should not become a regular treat.
Salami is a cured sausage that often contains a lot of fat, salt, and spices. Similar to other specialty sausages, a small bite of Salami won’t harm your dog, but regular consumption can lead to health issues, so it’s best to limit Salami.
Slim Jims are dried sausage sticks that contain various seasonings and preservatives. While a small piece won’t be immediately harmful, Slim Jims are not a good treat for your dog, as they are high in fat and can have lots of artificial flavors.

Additional specialty sausages

Breakfast sausage – Breakfast sausages often contain high levels of fat, salt, and seasonings like sage and pepper, which can be harmful to dogs. While a small bite might not cause immediate harm, these sausages are not a healthy option for your pet and should be avoided.
Italian sausage – Italian sausages are usually seasoned with garlic, onions, and various spices that are toxic to dogs. The high-fat content also makes them unsuitable. Avoid giving your dog Italian sausage to prevent potential health issues.
Summer sausage – Summer sausages are cured and often contain high amounts of salt, fat, and preservatives. They are not ideal for dogs and should only be given in very small amounts if at all.
Liver sausage – Liver sausage is rich and high in fat. As an occasional treat, it’s fine, but as a regular thing, liver sausage can lead to pancreatitis and digestive issues if consumed in large quantities.
Kielbasa – Kielbasa is a Polish sausage that is often high in fat, sodium, and may contain garlic or other harmful spices. It’s best to avoid giving Kielbasa to your dog.

While small amounts of these specialty sausages won’t typically cause harm, they should not be a regular part of your dog’s diet. Always opt for healthier, dog-friendly treats, and talk to your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s health.

Sausage as a treat for dogs

Sausage as a treat for dogs can be a bit of a mixed bag. While we love spoiling our dogs, it’s important to understand the long-term effects of poor nutrition. It’s very easy to introduce bad feeding habits, and no matter how much we love them and can’t resist those puppy eyes, we should really stick to plain protein as a treat or choose other healthy dog treats instead of spicy sausages.

A balanced diet is key for dogs, just like it is for us. Kibbles are specifically formulated to provide all the essential nutrients dogs need to stay healthy. They cover all bases, from proteins and fats to vitamins and minerals. These commercial dog foods are designed to meet your dog’s nutritional needs perfectly.

Treats, on the other hand, are usually meant for occasional rewards. They’re great for training or just showing your dog some extra love. But it’s important to keep treats to about 10% of your dog’s daily calories. Overdoing it with treats can lead to nutritional imbalances and health issues.

Dogs love variety, and they’ll go crazy for something as tasty as sausage. However, sausages are packed with fat and spices. While they might not be toxic in small amounts, they’re not exactly healthy either. Dogs can quickly develop a taste for these high-fat treats, which can make it tough to keep their diet balanced.

Too much fat and spices in sausages can cause serious health problems. Dogs might experience digestive issues like diarrhea and swollen tummies. Over time, the high-fat content can lead to obesity and pancreatitis. This is why it’s so important to be careful with how much sausage you’re giving your dog.

So, can dogs eat sausages? While the occasional small piece of cooked, plain sausage isn’t likely to harm your dog, making it a regular treat isn’t a great idea. Dogs love sausages, but the high fat and spices can lead to health issues. For a healthier option, consider dog treats that are specifically made to be nutritious and safe.

Love, life, and fur forever!

FAQs

Can dogs eat summer sausage?

Technically, dogs can eat summer sausage, but it’s not recommended. Summer sausage is high in fat and sodium, which makes it not healthy for dogs. It often contains preservatives and spices that can be harmful. Summer sausage is a type of cured sausage that is typically enjoyed as a snack or in sandwiches. It shouldn’t be a regular treat for dogs.

Can dogs eat maple sausage?

Dogs can eat maple sausage, but it’s not a good idea. Maple sausage contains high levels of fat, sodium, and added sugars, which are not suitable for dogs. The sweeteners and seasonings used can cause digestive upset. Maple sausage is usually flavored with maple syrup, giving it a sweet taste. It should be given sparingly and not as a regular treat.

Can dogs eat pickled sausage?

While dogs can technically eat pickled sausage, it’s best to avoid it. Pickled sausages are high in sodium and vinegar, which can be harsh on a dog’s digestive system. These sausages are preserved in a pickling solution, making them particularly unsuitable for regular consumption by dogs.

Can dogs eat chicken apple sausage?

Dogs can eat chicken apple sausage, but it’s not the healthiest option. These sausages are often high in fat and may contain spices and preservatives. Chicken apple sausage is made from chicken meat and apple chunks, providing a sweet and savory flavor. It should be given to dogs only occasionally and in small amounts.

Can dogs eat Jimmy Dean sausage?

Technically, dogs can eat Jimmy Dean sausage, but it’s not recommended. Jimmy Dean sausages are processed and contain high levels of fat, sodium, and spices. These sausages are popular breakfast items known for their flavor and convenience. They should not be a regular part of a dog’s diet.

Can dogs eat venison sausage?

Dogs can eat venison sausage, but moderation is key. Venison sausage is leaner than other sausages but may still contain spices and preservatives that are harmful to dogs. Venison sausage is made from deer meat and is often enjoyed for its unique flavor. It should only be an occasional treat for dogs.

Can dogs eat sage sausage?

While dogs can eat sage sausage, it’s best to avoid it. Sage sausage contains high levels of fat and seasonings, including sage, which can be harmful to dogs. Sage sausage is a type of sausage seasoned with sage, giving it a distinctive flavor. It shouldn’t be a regular treat for dogs.

Can dogs eat andouille sausage?

Dogs can technically eat andouille sausage, but it’s not advisable. Andouille sausage is spicy and contains seasonings like garlic and onions, which are toxic to dogs. Andouille is a smoked sausage known for its bold, spicy flavor. It should be kept away from dogs to prevent health issues.