Can spicy food be part of your pet’s menu? The short answer is no.
Your pet is part of the family, and that means that your pet should share in family life. You could share going on trips, watching movies, and spending time together. You could also share your meals together, but only to some extent. A dog’s diet is not the same as a human’s diet. If you are wondering if your pet can join in on the party, you might ask, “Can dogs eat spicy food?”
Can Dogs Eat Spicy Food?
No. A dog cannot eat spicy food without unfortunate and possibly severe consequences. Let’s take a look at what will happen if your dog ingests anything with capsaicin, the chemical that irritates the body no matter what, found in spicy peppers.
Effects on the Mouth and Throat
Canines have around 1,700 taste buds, while humans have around 9,000. Your pet dog will not be able to taste the flavor spicy food gives, despite its strong sense of smell, but it will be affected by the capsaicin, even more so than humans. If you feel a burning sensation in your mouth and throat from spicy food, it will be worse for your dog without the benefit of the flavor. Your dog might end up coughing, sneezing, drooling, sniffing, and covering its face with its paw in discomfort. Even worse, it could result from respiratory distress.
Effects on the Digestive System
Your pet’s digestive system is not meant to handle the same kinds of food as a human’s is. Your pet may also suffer from digestive discomfort and even vomiting. The pain it will cause for both you and your pet is not worth it.
What If Your Pet Eats Spicy Food?
If your pet eats spicy food like chili peppers, spicy chips, or hot sauce, you can give your dog relief with the help of:
- Cold water, cold milk, or cold yogurt safe for dogs
- A bland diet of rice porridge, mashed potato, or boiled, unseasoned chicken
If the pet covers its face with its paws, you can also wipe its face and paws to avoid spreading the burning sensation. Be prepared for your pet to vomit within a couple of hours. Also, check for toxic ingredients and call your vet if your pet consumed toxic substances.
Other Spices a Dog Should NEVER Eat
Garlic and onion are two seasonings we commonly use for many foods, but they are dangerous to dogs. If your pet consumed spicy food containing garlic, onion, or both, contact your vet immediately.
Trust the Care of Your Pet to the Professionals at Everhart Veterinary Medicine!
At Everhart Veterinary Medicine, our veterinary professionals strive to provide your pet with the very best of veterinary care. We believe that the best care for your pet should be provided by experienced, compassionate, and knowledgeable veterinary professionals. With three Maryland locations in Baltimore, Pasadena, and Cross Keys, we are always ready to welcome your pet as a new patient! Give us a call today at 410-355-3131, 410-793-7670, or 443-470-6790! For more information, as well as updates on veterinary news and topics, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!