NOTE: Always check with your veterinarian first before giving your dog any new foods, especially “people foods.” What might be OK for one dog might not be good for your dog, depending on multiple factors, such as their age, health history, health conditions, and diet. Dogs on prescription diets should not be fed any food or treats outside the diet.
If you’ve heard about raw dog food, you may be wondering if it’s safe to feed your dog uncooked meat. Fans of raw food diets for dogs claim that feeding your dog raw meat offers health benefits that processed dog food doesn’t have. The idea is that raw meat is closer to what their canine ancestors would have eaten in the wild, and therefore a better option for digestion and nutrient absorption.
But its not that simple. Dogs today are domestic pets who live longer lives in the comfort of home, unlike the wild dogs and wolves who roamed the earth before Fido graduated to the sofa. While their bodies do still have the ability to digest raw animal protein, its not a good idea to feed them raw meat. Thats because raw meat and fish can cause serious health issues like food poisoning, which can even make you and other members of your household sick—not just your dog.
Keep reading to learn more about the risks of feeding your dog raw meat, and how to ensure they get the nutrients they need from safe sources instead.
Ever caught your furry friend giving you those puppy eyes while you’re preparing sausages for breakfast? I know the feeling! It’s tempting to slip them a raw sausage, but before you do, let’s talk about whether it’s actually safe. As a dog owner myself, I’ve researched this topic thoroughly to keep my own pooch healthy and happy.
The Short Answer: No, Don’t Do It!
Raw sausages are NOT safe for dogs to eat. I can’t stress this enough! Despite how much your dog might beg, raw sausages pose several serious health risks that aren’t worth the temporary tail wag of happiness.
Why Raw Sausages Are Dangerous for Dogs
1. Risk of Trichinosis
Raw pork sausages can contain trichinella, a type of roundworm that causes a disease called trichinosis. This nasty parasite can make your pup seriously ill and requires veterinary treatment.
2. Bacterial Contamination
Raw sausages frequently carry bacteria like:
- Salmonella
- E. coli
- Listeria
These bacteria can cause food poisoning in dogs just like they do in humans Symptoms might include
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Fever
- Dehydration
3. High Fat Content
Sausages are incredibly fatty which can lead to
- Pancreatitis (painful inflammation of the pancreas)
- Obesity
- Digestive upset
4. High Salt Content
Processed meats like sausages contain excessive sodium that’s unhealthy for dogs. Too much salt can lead to:
- Increased thirst
- Urination
- In severe cases, sodium ion poisoning
5. Potentially Toxic Ingredients
Many sausages contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs:
- Onion powder
- Garlic
- Certain spices and seasonings
- Preservatives
What If My Dog Already Ate Raw Sausage?
Don’t panic! If your dog has already snagged some raw sausage, here’s what to do:
- Monitor your dog closely for the next 24-48 hours
- Watch for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite
- Contact your vet if you notice any concerning symptoms
- Provide plenty of fresh water to help flush their system
Most dogs who eat a small amount of raw sausage will be okay, but it’s always better to be cautious and observant.
Can Dogs Eat Cooked Sausage Instead?
While cooked sausage eliminates the bacterial and parasitic risks, it’s still not ideal for dogs. However, if you’re determined to share with your furry friend, here are the guidelines:
How to Safely Give Sausage to Your Dog
✅ Do’s:
- Cook thoroughly to kill any parasites or bacteria
- Cut into small, bite-sized pieces
- Remove any casings
- Choose plain varieties with minimal seasonings
- Limit to occasional treats only
- Consider it part of the 10% treat allowance in their diet
❌ Don’ts:
- Don’t give raw sausage ever
- Don’t feed sausages with onion, garlic, or excessive spices
- Don’t make it a regular part of their diet
- Don’t give large amounts
- Don’t feed cheap varieties with low meat content
Different Types of Sausages: Safe or Not?
Let’s break down some common sausage varieties and whether they’re safe for your dog:
| Sausage Type | Safe for Dogs? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Raw sausage | NO | High risk of parasites and bacteria |
| Plain cooked sausage | In small amounts occasionally | High in fat and salt, but safer when cooked |
| Sausage rolls | NO | Too fatty, buttery pastry is unhealthy |
| Vegan sausage | Not recommended | Made for humans, may contain ingredients dogs can’t tolerate |
| Hot dog sausage | Not recommended | Highly processed, full of preservatives |
| Chicken sausage | In small amounts occasionally | Slightly better than pork, but still fatty and salty |
| Liver sausage | Not recommended | Very high in fat, may contain toxic ingredients |
| Battered sausage | NO | Extremely high in fat and salt |
| Chorizo | NO | Contains chili, paprika, and is extremely salty |
Better Alternatives to Sausages for Dogs
Instead of risking your dog’s health with sausages, why not try these safer alternatives?
Healthier Meat Options:
- Plain, cooked chicken (no bones, skin, or seasoning)
- Lean, cooked beef
- Plain, cooked turkey
- Commercial meat-based dog treats
Commercial Alternatives:
- Meaty probiotic treats made specifically for dogs
- Beef jerky designed for dogs (not human jerky!)
- Grain-free, natural dog treats
What About Puppies and Sausages?
Puppies should NEVER be given sausages, raw or cooked. Their developing digestive systems are even more sensitive than adult dogs, and the high fat content can cause serious digestive issues. Stick to their puppy food and vet-approved treats during this crucial developmental stage.
Signs Your Dog May Have a Sausage Intolerance
Some dogs may have trouble digesting processed meats like sausages. Watch for these signs after giving your dog even a small amount of cooked sausage:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Excessive gas
- Lethargy
- Skin rash or irritation
- Itching or scratching
- Breathing difficulties
If you notice any of these symptoms, sausage is definitely not suitable for your dog, and you should avoid giving it to them in the future.
The 10% Rule for Treats
When thinking about giving your dog any human food as a treat, including cooked sausage, remember the 10% rule:
Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s total daily caloric intake.
This means if you do give your dog a tiny bit of cooked sausage as an occasional treat, you need to factor it into their overall treat allowance for the day. Remember, sausages are very calorie-dense!
My Personal Experience
I once gave my Lab mix a tiny piece of cooked breakfast sausage as a special weekend treat. While he absolutely loved it and begged for more, I noticed he had some digestive upset later that day. Nothing major, but enough to make me rethink my decision. Now I stick to dog-specific treats or plain cooked chicken as his special rewards, and both his tummy and our carpet are much happier!
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if my dog stole raw sausages?
Monitor them closely for signs of illness over the next 24-48 hours. Contact your vet if you notice vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite. The quantity matters – a small amount might cause minor upset, while a large amount increases risk of serious issues.
Are some dogs more susceptible to problems from raw sausage?
Yes! Puppies, senior dogs, and those with compromised immune systems or existing health conditions are at higher risk of complications from consuming raw sausage.
Can I feed my dog raw meat in general?
Some dog owners do follow raw feeding diets, but these are carefully planned with safe, fresh ingredients – not processed raw meats like sausages. If you’re interested in raw feeding, consult with your veterinarian first.
How long after eating raw sausage might my dog show symptoms?
Symptoms of food poisoning or parasitic infection can appear anywhere from a few hours to several days after consumption. Digestive upset typically appears within 24 hours.
Are turkey or chicken sausages safer than pork?
While they may have a slightly better nutritional profile, they still contain high levels of fat, salt, and potentially harmful seasonings. They’re only marginally better, and still shouldn’t be given raw.
Conclusion
When it comes to feeding our four-legged friends, it’s always better to err on the side of caution. Raw sausages are definitely on the “no-no” list for dogs due to the risks of parasites, bacteria, and the high fat and salt content.
If you really want to share some sausage with your pup, make sure it’s:
- Thoroughly cooked
- Plain with no toxic ingredients
- Given in very small amounts
- Only as an occasional treat
But honestly? Your doggo will be just as happy with a dog-friendly treat that doesn’t come with health risks. My own pup goes crazy for his specially formulated dog treats, and I get the peace of mind knowing I’m keeping him safe and healthy.
Remember, what makes a good human food doesn’t always make a good dog food. When in doubt, check with your vet before introducing any new foods to your furry friend’s diet.
Stay safe and keep those tails wagging!
Is Raw Meat Good for Dogs?
Dogs are natural carnivores that can digest raw meat, but that doesnt necessarily mean raw meat is good for them. Uncooked meat can harbor harmful bacteria such as salmonella, E. coli, and Listeria, which cause foodborne illnesses that can make your dog very sick.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and animal nutrition experts do not recommend feeding a raw food diet for dogs. Instead, choose a regular balanced dog food diet that contains all the nutrients needed to keep your pet healthy.
That said, if your dog eats a small amount of raw meat that falls on the floor while youre cooking, theyll likely be fine. But even a small amount of E. coli or Salmonella can be harmful, so monitor your pup for signs of illness and call the vet if you have concerns.
Make Sure It’s Cooked
Anytime you prepare meat for your dog, remove any bones or skin that could be a choking hazard. Plain, cooked chicken, turkey, or beef are good options. Youll want to boil or bake it (dont fry!) and remove any excess fat, especially if your dog is overweight or has a condition affecting the pancreas, such as diabetes or pancreatitis.
Avoid any seasonings or spices that can make your dog sick, such as garlic or onion powder, since both are toxic to dogs.
Cut meat into bite-sized pieces or opt for ground options that are easier for your pooch to chew and digest.