Can Dogs Eat Pickles? Vet-Approved Guide to Feasibility, Risks and Alternatives

Dogs should not eat pickles. While your dog is unlikely to suffer any ill effects from a slice or two of pickle, the ingredients in them (garlic and onion powder being the major offenders) are not good for dogs as many of them can be toxic or unhealthy. The safest bet is to avoid pickles altogether and offer fresh cucumbers instead, which are crisp, hydrating and low cal in moderation.

It’s a reasonable question to ponder when you’re staring at the pickles and your pooch, especially since all of those crunchy spears look so benign. Cucumbers (the base of pickles) are, in fact, a dog-friendly treat while pickles themselves are not ideal.

Can Dogs Eat pickles? Veterinarians like Dr. Alejandro Caos, DVM, warn pet parents not to feed dogs pickles because of the extremely high sodium levels as well as seasonings and potentially toxic additives. This post will cover the reasons why pickles are dangerous, what to do if your dog ingests one, and safe options you can offer as an alternative.

Why Can’t Dogs Eat Pickles?

Pickles and Their Ingredients

Pickles originate from cucumbers and are preserved in a brine of vinegar, salt, sugar and other spices. Although these items are what makes pickles taste like pickles, they can also be dangerous for dogs.

Toxic Ingredients: Garlic & Onion

A lot of pickle recipes rely on both garlic and onion, which are also Allium family members.

• These are poisonous to dogs and can cause red blood cells to rupture, causing anemia.
• The more severe cases can also lead to secondary kidney problems as a results of the breakdown of hemoglobin.

Excessive Salt (Sodium)

Brine is very salty, and extra sodium can lead to dehydration, high blood pressure or heart stress.
Too much salt (Salt poisoning or hypernatremia) due to large amounts of salt can cause:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Tremors or loss of balance
• Seizures

Other Additives & Spices

Pickle brines are both acidic and extremely salty. The real risks are salt and seasonings such as garlic or onion. Vinegar can be indigestible, sugar and some spices do not contribute anything.

Bottom line: Pickles are not sub-lethal in every small dose, but they’re not benevolent either.

If Your Dog Eats a Pickle, What Should You Do?

Should your dog snatch a pickle, don’t be alarmed. One piece is probably not going to be too dangerous – especially in a large, healthy dog. Nonetheless, continue to watch your pet for symptoms.

Signs of Pickle Ingestion Poisoning in Dogs

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Weakness or trembling
• Pale gums
• Seizures
• Refusal to eat

Call your vet if any of these symptoms develop and/or contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center for immediate assistance.

Can Dogs Eat Cucumbers – A Risk-Free Substitute

Yes, dogs can eat cucumbers, and cucumbers are safe for dogs to consume. Their water content is about 95 percent, so they’re a hydrating, low-calorie treat that’s great for overweight dogs or to help dogs stay cool in hot weather.

Benefits of Cucumbers for Dogs

• Low in calories (perfect if your pup is overweight)
• A source of some fiber (good for digestion)
• Hydrating – high in water
• Crunchy texture dogs enjoy

Feeding Guidelines

• Wash cucumbers thoroughly.
• Slice into bite-sized pieces.
• Introduce slowly – start with small amounts.
• Avoid pickled or seasoned cucumbers.

As always, consult with your vet before adding any new food to your dog’s diet.

Expert Tips for Pet Parents

• Stick with the approved treats: Cucumbers, carrots, apples (without seeds) and blueberries instead of pickles.
• Scrutinize ingredients: Soy, onion, garlic and added salt are common additives.
• As always, moderation is key: Even safe veggies should account for less than 10 percent of your dog’s overall daily diet.
• Know your dog’s health: Dogs with heart disease, kidney problems, high blood pressure or any sort of swelling are going to be at particular risk from salty foods.

Conclusion

Though it may be tempting to share your crunchy pickle spear with your pup, dogs shouldn’t eat pickles. The hazards from salt, onion and garlic are perfectly illustrate the risk – benefit profile.

Instead use cucumbers. Cucumbers – Plain cucumber slices are safe, cool and nutritious. When in doubt, consult your pet’s veterinarian before adding a new food to their diet. Providing your dog with a balanced, safe, and veterinarian-approved diet is the best way to help him live a long, healthy life.

FAQs About Dogs and Pickles

Q1: Can dogs eat dill pickles?

No. Even dill pickles have too much salt and vinegar, possibly garlic or onion that would render them unsafe.

Q2: If my dog eats an entire pickle, what should I do?

Most dogs would be O.K., but they might experience upset stomach, diarrhea or sodium overload. If your dog is showing symptoms, call your vet.

Q3: Are bread and butter pickles bad for dogs?

No. These have additional sugar, salt, and spices that are not good for dogs.

Q4: Can puppies eat pickles?

Not recommended. Puppies even more so than adult dogs are highly sensitive to salt. Stick to vet-approved puppy treats.

Q5: Can cucumbers be used in place of pickles?

Yes. Fresh cucumbers are not a problem (they can be hydrating and low-calorie, if you eat them in moderation).

Q6: What vegetables should dogs avoid?

Steer clear of onions, garlic, leeks, scallions and raw potatoes — all can be poisonous.

Q7: My dog ate a single pickle slice, do I need to call the vet?

Most likely not, but keep an eye out for vomiting, lethargy or anything unusual. Call your vet if you see symptoms.