The Hidden Dangers of High-Fat Foods and Dogs: What Every Pet Parent Needs to Know
We all love treating our dogs to something special now and then, but it’s essential to be mindful of what goes into their bodies. Foods high in fat might seem harmless, especially if they’re things we enjoy ourselves, but they can pose significant health risks to our furry friends.
My family learned this the hard way. My brothers dog was diagnosed with pancreatitis and it was less than 48 hours before they had to let her go. With twin toddlers in the house, Mia was inadvertently getting all sorts of foods that weren’t good for her. Please don’t let your dog be a statistic!
Let’s talk about the dangers of high-fat foods for dogs, which types of foods are particularly risky, and what can happen if your pup indulges in these fatty treats.
Why High-Fat Foods Are Dangerous for Dogs
Its obvious, but worth saying, dogs have different dietary needs and metabolisms than their 2 legged🚶➡️caretakers, and there is a good chance you aren’t aware of some of the things that can really do harm to their little (or big) bodies. Fat is one of those things that people see as harmless, and while a little fat is necessary for their diet, too much can lead to severe health problems. High-fat foods can disrupt their digestive system, cause weight gain, and even trigger more serious conditions like pancreatitis.
Pancreatitis is the most common and dangerous condition associated with high-fat diets. This inflammation of the pancreas occurs when the organ becomes overwhelmed by the sudden influx of fats, leading to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and lethargy. In severe cases, pancreatitis can be life-threatening and require immediate veterinary attention.
Common High-Fat Foods That Are Dangerous for Dogs
Here are some high-fat foods to keep away from your dog’s bowl:
- Bacon and Sausages: These breakfast staples are high in saturated fats, which can cause your dog’s pancreas to go into overdrive. Even small amounts can trigger digestive upset or pancreatitis.
- Fat Trimmings and Grease: It might be tempting to give your dog the leftover fat from your steak or roast, but these trimmings are full of harmful fats. Grease from cooking can also cause diarrhea and other gastrointestinal issues.
- Dairy Products: Foods like cheese, butter, and cream contain high amounts of fat. While some dogs might tolerate dairy, the combination of lactose and fat can upset their stomachs.
- Fried Foods: French fries, fried chicken, and other deep-fried goodies are not only loaded with unhealthy fats but also contain oils that are tough on a dog’s digestive system.
- Avocado: Everything about the avocado is dangerous to your dog, from the pit being toxic and a chocking hazard, to the high far content.
What Happens When Dogs Eat High-Fat Foods?
When dogs consume too much fat, their bodies struggle to process it. Here’s what can happen:
- Digestive Upset: The most immediate effects are vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain. Your dog may become lethargic and show signs of discomfort.
- Weight Gain and Obesity: Regularly feeding your dog high-fat foods can lead to weight gain and obesity, which increases the risk of other health issues like joint pain, heart disease, and diabetes.
- Pancreatitis: As mentioned, pancreatitis is a severe condition where the pancreas becomes inflamed. This condition requires prompt veterinary care and can have long-term consequences if not treated.
How to Keep Your Dog Safe
- Stick to Dog-Approved Treats: There are plenty of healthy, low-fat options available that your dog will love just as much. Look for treats made specifically for dogs that list lean proteins, vegetables, and whole grains as primary ingredients.
- Avoid Table Scraps: It’s easy to slip your dog a little something from your plate, but resist the urge. Foods seasoned for human taste often contain added fats, salts, and spices that are not safe for dogs.
- Monitor Fat Intake: Be aware of the fat content in your dog’s regular food, including kibble and canned options. Opt for well-balanced meals that meet your dog’s dietary needs without excess fat.
But treats are fun!
Just because those foods are off limits doesn’t mean your pup needs to go without! In southeastern CT we have so many great options for treats. Go local when you can!
- Brittni at Know Better Do Better Dog Training makes amazing treats, check out her birthday cake options
- A Dog’s Spot in the Velvet Mills in Stonington; she carries a ton of locally made treats and other dog accessories
- Kelly at Because of Dogs makes treats that you can buy in bulk, bring back your bag for a discount!
- And of course you’ll want to visit our locally owned pet stores for all their goodies and expansive knowledge on dog nutrition! Mystic Pet Shop Paw Print Pantry & My Pet’s World
While sharing a treat with your pup is always fun, it’s crucial to prioritize their health by avoiding foods high in fat. Stick to safer, dog-friendly snacks and ensure your furry friend stays happy, healthy, and ready for their next adventure!
Barks & Recreation offers Dog Walking & more in southeastern CT. If you are local we’d love for you to join our community of southeastern CT dog lovers on facebook. Barks Community is for dog lovers of southeastern CT to connect. We do weekly Training Tuesday’s, having community hikes, support causes together, puppy socials, and much more. We’d love for you to join!