No, dogs should not eat beef jerky because of its ingredients.
Jerky is the term used for lean trimmed meat that has been dried through heating, preserved, and cut into strips. Though dogs are allowed to eat beef as a treat, the same cannot be said for beef jerky because of how it is prepared.
Jerky is usually made with a high amount of salt. This can cause severe dehydration, incontinence, stomach inflammation, electrolyte imbalances, and even sodium ion poisoning in dogs. Severe dehydration may cause your canine’s brain cells to shrink, rupture, and have hemorrhages. Meanwhile, stomach inflammation can lead to diarrhea and vomiting.
Aside from salt, beef jerky may also contain spices, pepper, sugar, garlic, and onion flavourings deemed dangerous for dogs. Many jerky products are also highly processed and contain more fat than what dogs actually need in a day.
What to do if your dog accidentally eats beef jerky: Review the nutrition facts label to check all the ingredients used to make it. If you discover any questionable or harmful ingredients, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Keep an eye on your dog for any changes in his mood or behaviour. Complications such as vomiting, gas, diarrhea, and dehydration may manifest if your dog ate too much beef jerky.
In summary: Though beef jerky contains protein, fat, and carbohydrates that dogs need on a daily basis, the salt content is a cause for concern. Instead of beef jerky, it would be best to offer him other types of cooked and unseasoned lean meat to help him meet his nutritional requirements.
Browse through our “can dogs eat” category to discover which human foods are safe for pooches.
References:
Is Beef Jerky a Dangerous Treat For My Pet Dog?
Can Dogs Eat Beef Jerky? Here are the Facts
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