Can Dogs Eat MSG? The Surprising Truth About MSG in Dog Food

Have you ever wondered if your furry friend can safely consume MSG? As a pet parent, I’m always researching what’s safe for my dogs to eat, and MSG (monosodium glutamate) is definitely a confusing topic. There’s a lot of conflicting information out there, so I’ve done the homework for you to uncover the truth about MSG and dogs.

What Exactly is MSG?

Before diving into whether dogs can eat MSG let’s understand what it actually is

MSG (monosodium glutamate) is a type of salt that’s commonly added to foods as a flavor enhancer. It’s particularly used to boost savory or “umami” flavors in both human and pet foods. MSG is derived from glutamic acid an amino acid that occurs naturally in many foods like tomatoes, aged cheeses and various meats.

Many Asian cuisines use MSG extensively. and it’s also found in numerous processed foods like

• Canned soups and vegetables
• Processed meats
• Snack foods like potato chips
• Salad dressings
• Frozen dinners

But here’s where things get interesting – MSG is also sneaking into your dog’s food bowl more often than you might think!

Is MSG Safe for Dogs? The Complicated Answer

The truth about MSG safety for dogs isn’t black and white. Let’s look at both sides:

The “Generally Safe” Perspective

According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), MSG is classified as “generally recognized as safe” for consumption. The Dog Food Advisor notes that in small quantities, most dogs won’t experience immediate adverse effects from consuming MSG.

The amount of MSG typically added to dog food is relatively small – we’re talking milligrams rather than the tablespoons that would be required for acute toxicity. So technically, a little bit of MSG isn’t likely to cause immediate harm to your pup.

The Concerning Evidence

However, the other side of the story is more worrying. Dogs Naturally Magazine presents some concerning evidence about the potential dangers of MSG for dogs:

• Brain Effects: MSG is an excitotoxin that over-stimulates the brain, potentially causing damage over time. It alters the brain’s response to leptin, the hormone that signals fullness.

• Seizure Risk: Veterinary nutritionist Dr. Veneta Kozhuharova has found links between glutamate/MSG in dog foods and seizures. Research shows glutamate plays a role in the initiation and spread of seizure activity.

• Organ Damage: Studies in animals have shown MSG can be toxic to various organs including the liver, brain, thymus, and kidneys when consumed regularly over time.

• Other Health Concerns: Research suggests MSG may contribute to inflammation, obesity, and diabetes in animals.

What’s especially concerning is that these effects can accumulate over time. Your dog might seem fine eating food with MSG for years before showing symptoms.

Signs Your Dog Has Had Too Much MSG

While acute MSG poisoning is rare from dog food alone, here are symptoms to watch for if your dog consumes a large amount or shows sensitivity:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Excessive thirst/drinking
• Lethargy or unusual tiredness
• Poor coordination
• Seizures or tremors

If you notice these symptoms and suspect MSG exposure, contact your vet immediately.

Hidden MSG in Dog Food: The Sneaky Ingredient Names

One of the trickiest things about MSG is that it often hides behind different names on ingredient labels. Pet food manufacturers rarely list it as “MSG” or “monosodium glutamate” directly. Here’s what to look for instead:

What makes this even more complicated is that MSG can sneak into dog food through other ingredients. For example:

• Produce: Some crops are sprayed with products containing MSG to increase yields. When these vegetables and fruits start to spoil, they’re often used in pet foods as “natural ingredients.”

• Dairy additives: Processed free glutamic acid is found in many dairy products that might be added to dog foods.

• Anti-coprophagia products: Ironically, many products designed to stop dogs from eating poop contain MSG to make the stool taste unpleasant!

Why is MSG Added to Dog Food Anyway?

You might be wondering why pet food companies would add MSG to dog food in the first place. There are a few reasons:

1. Flavor enhancement: Dogs, like humans, are attracted to the savory taste MSG provides. This makes even low-quality food more appealing.

2. Disguising poor ingredients: MSG can mask the taste of low-quality or nutritionally deficient ingredients, allowing manufacturers to use cheaper components.

3. Creating “addiction”: Since MSG alters brain chemistry and can make dogs want to keep eating, it ensures your dog eagerly eats the same food day after day.

How to Avoid MSG in Your Dog’s Diet

If you’re concerned about MSG in your dog’s food (and I think you should be), here are some practical steps to avoid it:

1. Choose Higher Quality Dog Foods

Look for brands that:

• Use organic ingredients
• Clearly state they don’t use artificial flavors or enhancers
• Have shorter, more transparent ingredient lists
• Focus on whole food ingredients

2. Consider Fresh or Raw Feeding

The best way to completely avoid MSG is to feed a fresh, whole food diet:

• Raw meat-based diets
• Home-prepared meals (with proper nutritional balance)
• Fresh dog food delivery services that use whole ingredients

I switched my dog to a raw diet a year ago, and I’ve noticed amazing improvements in her energy, coat condition, and dental health!

3. Read Labels Carefully

Become an ingredient detective:

• Look for all the disguised MSG terms listed above
• Contact manufacturers directly if you’re unsure about ingredients
• Don’t be fooled by “natural flavoring” claims

4. Try Making Your Own Dog Treats

When you make your own dog treats, you control exactly what goes into them. Simple recipes using meat, vegetables, and whole grains can be healthier alternatives to store-bought treats that might contain MSG.

The Bottom Line: Should Dogs Eat MSG?

While small amounts of MSG might not cause immediate harm to most dogs, the potential long-term risks make it something I personally avoid in my dogs’ diet. The evidence pointing to neurological effects, organ damage, and other health issues is concerning enough to err on the side of caution.

As with many food additives, the effects can be cumulative and may not show up immediately. By the time symptoms appear, damage may already be done.

The good news is that with some label reading and smart choices, it’s totally possible to feed your dog a diet free from MSG and other potentially harmful additives. Your furry friend will thank you with years of better health!

FAQ About Dogs and MSG

Q: Can a little MSG really harm my dog?
A: While small amounts may not cause immediate symptoms, research suggests MSG can accumulate in the system over time and potentially lead to neurological and organ damage.

Q: Is natural glutamic acid the same as MSG?
A: No. Natural glutamic acid found in foods like meat and tomatoes is different from synthetic MSG. The body processes them differently, and excess natural glutamate is excreted while MSG isn’t.

Q: My dog’s food says “no artificial flavors.” Does that mean it’s MSG-free?
A: Not necessarily. MSG can hide under many different names, and some forms might not be considered “artificial flavors” by the manufacturer. Look specifically for the alternative names listed above.

Q: Are there any benefits to MSG for dogs?
A: The only “benefit” is enhanced flavor, which makes food more appealing. However, this isn’t a nutritional benefit and comes with potential health risks.

Q: My dog has been eating food with MSG for years with no problems. Should I be concerned?
A: The effects of MSG can be cumulative and subtle. Just because your dog isn’t showing obvious symptoms doesn’t mean damage isn’t occurring. It’s never too late to switch to a healthier option!

Remember, our dogs rely on us to make the best food choices for them. By avoiding unnecessary additives like MSG, we’re giving them the best chance at a long, healthy life!