Can dogs eat hot dogs and deli meat?

Raw, cooked and other forms of hot dogs and deli meat

• Skip itOne plain cooked hot dog she stole AKC and PetMD say one is unlikely to cause serious harm in a healthy dog, but it isn't a good choice.
• Skip itRaw hot dogs PetMD: raw hot dogs can carry high levels of bacteria.
• Skip itPepperoni AKC says no: too spicy and too fatty. It can cause gastroenteritis, pancreatitis and salt poisoning.
• Skip itSalami, bologna, sausages and other cold cuts Same concerns as hot dogs and pepperoni: lots of salt and fat, plus frequent garlic, onion and spices.
• ToxicAnything seasoned with garlic or onion Garlic and onion powder are common in processed meats and are toxic to dogs (AKC, PetMD).
• Skip itHam PetMD: very high in salt and fat, and repeated fatty meals can lead to pancreatitis. Never give ham bones.

Why dogs should skip hot dogs and deli meat

Salt (sodium) is the main concern. AKC says a 33-pound dog needs only about 200 mg of sodium a day, while an average hot dog has more than 500 mg. Fat can cause stomach upset and pancreatitis. Sodium nitrate, MSG, and onion or garlic powder are common add-ins.

Signs to watch for after she eats hot dogs and deli meat

Stomach upset: vomiting, diarrhea, gas, belly cramping. Extra thirst from the salt. Choking signs: pawing at the mouth, trouble breathing, heavy drooling. With a lot of salt: vomiting, diarrhea, wobbliness, tremors or seizures. If garlic or onion was in it: weakness, pale gums or red urine later on.

What to do if your dog ate too much hot dogs and deli meat

If she stole one hot dog or a slice of deli meat, don't panic: give her plenty of fresh water and watch her. Call your vet if diarrhea lasts more than a day, if she vomits along with diarrhea, or if she seems distressed. If she ate several, ate a lot of salami or pepperoni, ate something seasoned with garlic or onion, is a small dog, or has a history of pancreatitis, call your vet or Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 right away. If she's choking, get emergency care immediately.