Why Pickles Aren’t the Best Snack for Dogs

As a pet owner, it’s natural to wonder if your dog can enjoy the same snacks you do—like pickles. While some human foods are perfectly safe for dogs, others can be harmful, and pickles fall into a gray area. Although cucumbers (the main ingredient in pickles) are safe for dogs, the pickling process often involves ingredients that could pose risks to your pet. In this guide, we’ll explore whether dogs can eat pickles, what ingredients to watch out for, and how to keep your dog safe.

Can Dogs Have Pickles?

Kimchi is not usually recommended for dogs. The spices contained in kimchi, such as chillies, peppercorns and peppers, may be too harsh for dogs and may cause health problems such as diarrhoea and stomach pains.

Reasons why dogs should not eat pickles

• High salt content

Pickles usually have a high amount of salt added during the pickling process, and excessive salt intake by dogs can lead to a variety of health problems. Firstly, a high salt diet can increase your dog's blood pressure and put a strain on the heart, especially for breeds that are prone to heart disease, such as poodles and English bulldogs. Secondly, excess salt can lead to dehydration in dogs, as the body eliminates excess salt through urination, which can lead to water loss. Chronic high salt diets may cause damage to your dog's kidneys, which need to filter and eliminate waste and excess salt from the body. 

In addition, high-salt foods may irritate your dog's urinary system, leading to problems such as urethritis and cystitis, and increasing the risk of stone formation. Too much salt may also lead to dry, itchy skin and hair loss problems in dogs, affecting the quality and appearance of the coat. Foods high in salt are also usually higher in calories, which can lead to weight gain in dogs, which in turn can lead to obesity-related health problems such as joint disease and diabetes. 

• Contains flavourings that are harmful to dogs

Onions, ginger, garlic and other seasonings commonly used in kimchi, especially garlic and onions, contain sulphides, which can destroy your dog's red blood cells and trigger haemolytic anaemia. The main reason why dogs should not eat shallots is that they contain a compound called n-propyl disulphide, which is toxic to dogs. When a dog ingests shallots, n-propyl disulfide destroys the haemoglobin in the red blood cells, causing them to oxidise and eventually rupture, thus causing haemolytic anaemia. This condition can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, vomiting, diarrhoea, blood in the urine and in severe cases can even be life-threatening for your dog . 

• May contain parasites

Kimchi may be contaminated with parasite eggs during production, especially if untreated human and animal faeces are used as fertiliser in the growing and harvesting of the vegetables.

• Harsh spices

Kimchi may contain harsh spices such as chillies, peppercorns and peppers, which are harmful to your dog's digestive system and may cause diarrhoea and stomach pain. 

• Unsuitable acidity

The high acidity of kimchi can have an irritating effect on your dog's gastric mucosa, which may lead to indigestion or other gastrointestinal problems. 

Given these risks, feeding kimchi and other pickled foods should be avoided for your dog's health. If a dog inadvertently consumes kimchi, its health should be closely monitored and a veterinarian should be consulted if necessary. In the meantime, you should ensure that your dog's diet is based on specialised dog food that is low in salt and free of harsh flavourings.

What are Common Symptoms of Kimchi Consumption in Dogs?

Digestive reactions: such as vomiting and diarrhoea, which is due to the pungent ingredients and high salt content of kimchi irritating your dog's gastrointestinal tract. 

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Behavioural changes: the dog may show signs of hyper-excitement or depression, which may be a result of discomfort caused by certain ingredients in the food. 
Muscle stiffness and tremors: toxins in certain foods may cause these neuromuscular symptoms in dogs. 
Abnormal body temperature: After consuming unsuitable food, your dog's body temperature may rise or fall. 
Excessive thirst or frequent urination: This may be due to an imbalance of water in your dog's body caused by the salt and other ingredients in pickles. 

Breathing problems: certain foods contain chemicals that may affect your dog's respiratory system. 
Heart problems: prolonged consumption of foods high in salt may cause damage to your dog's heart.

What to Do After Dog Eats Pickles by Mistake?

First Aid Treatment Steps

• Assess your dog's condition

Observe your dog for vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, drooling or other signs of discomfort.

• Stop further ingestion

Ensure that the dog does not have the opportunity to ingest any more kimchi or other potentially harmful substances.

• Induce vomiting

If your dog has not consumed the pickle for more than two hours and is in good spirits, consider using 3% hydrogen peroxide (please calculate the dose according to your dog's body weight, but not more than 10 ml maximum) to induce vomiting. Always consult your vet before using any method of inducing vomiting as not all types of poisoning are suitable for inducing vomiting.

• Contacting the Veterinarian

Even if your dog does not appear to be in obvious discomfort, you should contact your veterinarian immediately for professional guidance and treatment.

• Do not self-administer medication

Do not give your dog medication unless instructed to do so by your veterinarian, as this may exacerbate the problem.

• Preparing your dog for transport

Keep your dog comfortable while waiting for veterinary instructions or en route to the animal hospital, and be prepared to transport your dog safely to the hospital.

Keep in mind that the seasoning and high salt content in kimchi can be harmful to dogs, and kimchi may contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs. Therefore, prompt first aid treatment and expert veterinary care is vital. Remain calm and act quickly during treatment. 

What Snacks Can Dogs Eat?

Types of Snacks Suitable for Dogs

Snack choices for dogs should be based on nutritional value and safety. Here are some types of snacks suitable for dogs.

• Dry Poultry Meat

Such as dehydrated chicken and turkey, these snacks are usually hard and suitable for teeth grinding while providing protein. 

• Freeze-dried snacks

Freeze-drying technology preserves the nutrients in meat, fruits and vegetables while providing a long shelf life, making them suitable for rewards. 

• Jerky

Dehydrated jerky is a great choice for training, they are usually made from chicken, beef and fish and are soft and easy to chew. 

• Bones

Natural bones can provide chewing pleasure and help clean teeth, but choose additive-free and sterilised bones. 

Related: Why Do Dogs Like Bones

• Fruits and vegetables

Certain fruits and vegetables, such as carrots, apples (cored), blueberries, etc., can be used as healthy snacks, but they need to be cut into appropriate sizes to avoid choking risks. 

• Specialised dog snacks

There are many brands of snacks on the market designed specifically for dogs that have been researched and tested to ensure they provide balanced nutrition and great taste. 

When choosing dog snacks, consider your dog's age, size and special needs, and make sure that the snacks do not interfere with the main food intake. Feed snacks in moderation and consult your vet for advice before introducing new snacks.

How to Give Dog Vegetables Correctly?

The following steps and precautions should be followed when feeding vegetables to your dog:

Choose the right vegetables: vegetables that your dog can eat include carrots, broccoli, spinach, tomatoes, cucumber and pumpkin. These vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals and dietary fibre, which help maintain your dog's health.
Handling Vegetables: Before feeding, vegetables should be washed thoroughly to remove any pesticides and impurities that may remain. For vegetables that are not easily digested, such as cabbage and kale, they should be cut into small pieces to reduce the burden on the gastrointestinal tract. 
Cooking method: Most vegetables are suitable to be cooked and fed, which will improve your dog's digestibility and make it easier to absorb the nutrients. Fat, salt or other flavourings should be avoided as these can be harmful to dogs. 
Feed in moderation: Vegetables should not replace your dog's main diet, but should be used as a supplement. Feeding vegetables in moderation can help your dog get extra nutrients, but care should be taken not to overdo it as this may affect your dog's appetite and digestion.
Monitor your dog's reaction: when feeding new vegetables for the first time, you should closely monitor your dog's reaction to ensure there are no adverse reactions, such as indigestion or allergies. 

By following these steps, you can ensure that your dog is safely consuming the nutrients in vegetables while avoiding potential health risks.

FAQs

Can a Dog Eat a Gherkin?

Yes, dogs can eat cucumbers. Cucumber is a low-calorie, water-rich vegetable that makes it a safe and healthy snack for dogs. The vitamin K contained in cucumbers helps your dog's bones to be strong, while their rich water and fiber promotes digestive health. When feeding cucumbers, make sure they are fresh and thoroughly washed before feeding. Peeling and cutting the cucumber into small pieces is recommended to prevent your dog from having difficulty swallowing or choking. It is important to note that while cucumbers are good for dogs, they should not be overfed to avoid interfering with a dog's normal diet or causing gastrointestinal upset. Additionally, pickled cucumbers are not suitable for dogs as the pickling process may have added flavorings that are harmful to dogs. It is best to consult your veterinarian first when introducing any new food into your dog's diet. 

Can Dogs Eat Cucumbers Or Pickles?

Dogs can eat cucumbers in moderation. Cucumber is a low-calorie, water-rich vegetable that contains vitamins K, C, and B complex, as well as minerals such as potassium and manganese, which are good for your dog's health. Cucumbers can help hydrate your dog, improve digestion, and even help reduce bad breath. In addition, the low-calorie nature of cucumbers makes them an ideal snack for dogs on a diet. 

When feeding cucumbers, make sure they are fresh, peeled and cut into small pieces to avoid choking or indigestion. Start with a small amount when feeding for the first time and watch your dog for any adverse reactions such as allergies or digestive problems. Cucumbers should not replace your dog's main diet, but be offered in moderation as a snack or supplement. 

It should be noted that cucumber is a cold food and should be limited for dogs with sensitive stomachs to prevent diarrhea or other digestive discomfort. Cucumbers should be fed with caution to puppies whose digestive systems are not yet fully developed and should not be overdone in adult dogs. It is always wise to consult your veterinarian before feeding any new food. 

Can Dogs Eat Pickles In Vinegar?

Dogs should not consume vinegar-soaked pickles. Kimchi usually contains ingredients that are harmful to dogs, such as chives, onions, chillies, peppercorns, peppers and other spices, which may cause discomfort such as diarrhoea, stomach pain and other symptoms. In addition, kimchi is high in salt, and excessive salt intake can tax your dog's kidneys. Vinegar itself is safe for dogs, but vinegar-soaked kimchi may not be suitable for dogs due to other ingredients in kimchi. Therefore, to maintain your dog's health, you should avoid feeding vinegar-soaked pickles. 

Conclusion

While pickles themselves aren’t toxic to dogs, the ingredients used to make them, such as salt, vinegar, garlic, and spices, make them an unsafe snack for your furry friend. It’s best to avoid giving your dog pickles and instead opt for safer alternatives like cucumbers or other dog-friendly vegetables. If your dog does accidentally eat a pickle, monitor them for any signs of distress and consult your vet if you have concerns. By understanding the risks and providing healthier options, you can keep your dog safe and happy.

Also Read: Can Dogs Eat Pickles