Can Dogs Have Sausage?

Can Dogs Have Sausage?

Sausages are a staple in many homes—served up at breakfast, tossed on the barbecue, or used as a quick protein fix. If your dog is giving you the classic puppy eyes while you’re tucking into one, it’s tempting to share a bite. But is sausage actually safe for dogs? While a small nibble likely won’t do serious harm, sausage isn’t something your dog should eat regularly—or ideally at all.

Is Sausage Safe for Dogs?

In short, not really. Sausage is considered a high-fat, highly processed food. Most sausages are loaded with salt, spices, preservatives, and fatty meat cuts, none of which are good for dogs. Even a few mouthfuls can upset your dog’s stomach, and in larger amounts, sausages can contribute to longer-term health problems like obesity or pancreatitis.

The occasional tiny bit as a training reward or pill-hider isn’t the end of the world, but it’s not a healthy or recommended treat.

What Makes Sausage Risky for Dogs?

There are a few key reasons why sausage should be kept off your dog’s menu:

• High fat content: Dogs have sensitive pancreases, and fatty foods can lead to pancreatitis—a painful and potentially serious condition.
• Salt and seasoning: Sausages often contain garlic, onion powder, or other spices that are toxic to dogs, even in small doses.
• Preservatives: Nitrates and nitrites, commonly used to preserve sausages, aren’t safe for dogs in significant amounts.
• Processed meats: These tend to be more difficult for dogs to digest and offer little in the way of nutritional value.

Can Dogs Have Plain or Homemade Sausage?

Homemade sausage that’s made from plain, lean meats with no seasoning, salt, or additives is a safer option—but even then, it should only be an occasional treat. A small piece of boiled or grilled chicken sausage (with no added flavourings) is far better than a greasy pork sausage from the fry-up. Still, there are healthier alternatives for dogs that deliver more benefits with less risk.

What Happens If My Dog Eats Sausage?

If your dog snags a bit of sausage off the floor, it’s not usually a cause for panic. They might experience some mild diarrhoea or gas, depending on how much they ate. However, if they consume a large amount—especially if it’s highly seasoned—keep an eye out for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, or signs of abdominal pain. If you're worried, give your vet a call.

Are There Healthier Alternatives?

If you’re looking for a protein-based treat, there are safer options than sausage. Cooked chicken, turkey, or lean beef—served plain and in small pieces—make excellent high-value treats. You can also find dog-specific sausages made with minimal ingredients and no harmful seasonings. These are designed with your dog’s digestion and health in mind.

Can Puppies Eat Sausage?

Puppies should not be given sausage. Their digestive systems are even more sensitive than adult dogs, and foods that are too salty, fatty, or rich can lead to stomach upset or worse. Stick to high-quality puppy food or vet-approved treats while they’re still growing.

Summary

While sausage might be tempting to share, it’s best to avoid giving it to your dog. High in fat, salt, and potentially toxic ingredients, sausage offers little nutritional value and carries a range of risks. A small, plain piece on rare occasions may not cause harm, but it shouldn’t become a habit. For a happy, healthy dog, it’s always better to stick to treats designed with their wellbeing in mind.