Like most humans, dogs love meat. So it should really be no surprise if your dog begs to have a piece of whatever meat you’re eating. And, quite often that may be pork.
Most dog owners do not think twice before giving their dogs pork. After all, packed dog foods contain different kinds of meat as their main ingredients too.
But can dogs eat pork that’s meant for humans? Is that a safe food choice for them?
Can Dogs Eat Pork?
Yes, absolutely dogs can eat pork if you want to feed it to them. The bigger question however is it safe for them to eat pork as much as we do?
Well, the answer is yes and no. Yes, dogs can eat pork as a part of their regular diet as long as it is mixed with other ingredients such as vegetables.
However, cooked pork with rubs, seasonings and different spices, are extremely dangerous for our furry best friends. Often, these seasonings can be highly toxic. These potentially harmful ingredients include onion, onion powder, garlic, garlic powder, nutmeg, salt, pepper and etc.
Condiments such as BBQ sauce and Catsup should also be avoided. These sauces contain high quantities of salt and sugar plus added flavoring that are also dangerous for your dog.
How About Raw Pork for Dogs?
Raw or undercooked pork is also a big no-no for dogs. This expose your pets to different parasites and bacteria that lives in uncooked meat such as trichinella spiralis larvae. This can use an infection to dogs known as trichinosis.
If your dog is experiencing a reaction towards raw or undercooked pork, look for symptoms such as vomiting, elevated fever, diarrhea, lethargy, upset stomach, muscle information, pain and stiffness.
Please note that not all of these symptoms will show immediately.
Recommendations For Feeding Your Dog Pork Safely
So, what is safe for your pet? Boiled or baked dog is preferred for dogs. No added seasonings and flavorings.
Also, just a small amount of pork is recommended, as it can be difficult for your dog to digest if given in large quantities.
Learn More About What Human Foods Are Healthy or Harmful for Dogs
This article is part of our special series of articles about “What Human Foods Can Dogs Eat?”
Please check out other articles in the series including: Can Dogs Eat Potatoes?
