Can Dogs Eat Pork?

The short answer: It is not recommended.

The long answer: Though cooked pork is safe for dogs to eat, it should be done with caution. The cooked pork you serve him should be properly grilled, steamed, or boiled. Undercooked or raw pork may contain roundworm parasites that may attach to your dog’s muscles for years. Puppies are reported to be at higher risk of trichinosis infection, manifesting symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, muscle pain, muscle stiffness, muscle inflammation, and gastrointestinal upset. 

Aside from being cooked thoroughly, the pork you serve your dog should not have sauces, spices, or seasonings that may cause digestive problems, nor should it be processed or cured as these pork products may be high in salt. Pork rib bones and fat trimmings are also big no-nos. The former can break into small pieces that can damage your dog’s mouth, throat, or intestines, while the latter can result in pancreatitis. Symptoms of this inflammation includes vomiting, loss of appetite, and/or abdominal pain.

What to do if your dog accidentally eats pork: Observe your pet for any unusual symptoms or behaviour. If you notice anything strange, bring him to the vet immediately. Your vet will most likely run tests to check if your dog is suffering from a parasite infection or pancreatitis, then prescribe the right medication.   

In summary: As long as you choose the lean portion of the meat and cook it correctly, pork may be an excellent source of iron, thiamine, zinc, niacin, B6, riboflavin, and B12 for your dog. Regularly feeding him raw, undercooked, or highly flavoured pork may cause lasting damage to his digestive and muscular systems. Instead of pork, discover which other meat dogs can safely eat in our “can dogs eat” category.

References:

Can Dogs Eat Pork or Rib Bones?

Pork Roundworm Infection in Dogs

Healthy People Foods Your Dog Can Eat

Can Dogs Eat This? The Ultimate Guide To 105 Food Items