Can Dogs Eat Turkey Hot Dogs? Just How Safe Are They?

Turkey hotdogs are not only an incredibly delicious barbeque delight, but they’re also one of the healthier versions in the hotdog family.

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While having turkey hotdogs every weekend with your family is a great tradition, is it safe to feed some to your dog too?

So, can dogs eat turkey hotdogs?

Yes, feeding your dog turkey hotdogs in moderation is unlikely to cause him harm.

The issue, however, lies in the excessive amount of salt, fat, and other additives contained in the turkey hotdogs that may be detrimental to your dog’s health.

This article looks at the possible dangers turkey hotdogs may pose to your dog and what ingredients to watch out for.

It also talks about when to consult your vet for your dog’s safety.

Can turkey hotdogs kill dogs?

No, when offered sparingly as a treat, turkey hotdogs cannot be poisonous to your dog.

However, when giving turkey hotdogs to your dog, make sure that they have little to no salt and seasonings, especially if your dog is suffering from other health issues.

The rule of thumb is that turkey hotdogs should not form a staple of your dog’s diet as they have minimal nutritional value.

A healthy dog’s diet should contain a carefully balanced meal with all the vitamins and minerals necessary for growth and survival.

Here are more reasons you should give your dog turkey hotdogs in moderation.

They include:

High-fat content – If the turkey hotdog meat contains turkey skin, it may cause pancreatitis in your dog because of its high-fat content. The excess fat in the turkey skin may also cause discomfort and pain to your dog’s stomach
Additives – They are often full of additives that may cause serious health issues in your dog. Some of the harmful ingredients are: artificial flavors like monosodium glutamate (MSG) which is a flavor enhancer that causes seizures in dogs; nitrites and nitrates (including sodium nitrate), which are both preservatives associated with dog cancer; and seasonings like garlic and onion powder which are poisonous for dogs
High salt content and preservatives – Turkey hotdogs, like every deli meat, are made of processed meat which contains a high amount of salt and preservatives that can cause a spike in your dog’s blood pressure, dehydration, cardiovascular disease, and possible risk of stroke
Hotdog buns – The turkey hotdog buns do not add nutritional value to your dog, which may lead to bloating and an upset stomach. If your dog is allergic to wheat or gluten, the buns may also trigger the allergies
Artificial sweeteners – The turkey hotdogs, hotdog buns, and condiments like ketchup contain harmful artificial sweeteners that may cause hypoglycemia and liver failure in your dog
Choking – Turkey hotdogs are a potential choking hazard, especially when given whole or in large pieces

Are turkey hotdogs hard to digest?

Yes, turkey hotdogs may be hard for your dog to digest as they have a casing that’s tough for its digestive system.

This is why you should occasionally give turkey hotdogs to your dog as a snack and not as a mainstay diet.

Can dogs eat raw turkey hotdogs?

No, you shouldn’t feed your dog raw turkey hotdogs.

Like every type of hotdog, Turkey hotdogs contain processed meat that has high levels of bacteria.

They could upset your dog’s stomach and lead to more severe illnesses if given raw.

Ensure the turkey hotdogs are well cooked and allow them to cool before feeding them to your dog.

Can you use turkey hotdogs as training treats?

Yes, you can.

However, you should only give your dog turkey hotdogs in moderation occasionally.

As a general rule, treats should never make up more than 10% of your dog’s diet, including turkey hotdogs.

Can a pregnant dog eat turkey hotdogs?

Yes, you can offer your pregnant dog turkey hotdogs in moderation.

To avoid giving her harmful ingredients, you’ll need to ensure that they’re adequately cooked and unseasoned.

You can also give your pregnant dog homemade turkey hotdogs instead of store-bought ones, as they’re low in sodium and preservative-free.

You should also avoid giving them frequently as they may develop a taste for it.

What to do if your dog accidentally eats excess turkey hotdogs

If your dog eats one or more hotdogs accidentally, you should:

Give your dog plenty of water, especially if it experiences stomach problems. While one hotdog is unlikely to be toxic to your dog, expect possible vomiting, indigestion, and an upset stomach. These symptoms will likely pass after a day. If you suspect your dog ate more than one, consult your vet immediately.
Stay alert for choking. If your dog swallows big chunks or a whole turkey hotdog, it may be lodged in its throat, blocking the airway. Watch out for signs like whining or retching and rush him to the vet immediately
Give your dog lots of unseasoned fluids as it may help flush out toxic contents. Turkey hotdogs have a high sodium content which may lead to sodium toxicity or salt poisoning. If your dog suffers sodium toxicity, he may show signs like lack of coordination, seizures, or tremors

Can older dogs eat turkey hotdogs?

Yes.
Older dogs can enjoy an occasional turkey hotdog snack in moderation but not as a main meal.
Turkey hotdogs are high in protein, which may benefit your older dog and make a great supplement to its diet.
However, feeding your older dog other types of protein besides turkey hotdogs will ensure they get all the proper nutrients in their body.
You should also give hotdog buns in tiny amounts as they contain processed carbs that are sugar-filled which can make him gain weight resulting in obesity or other heart-related diseases.

In Summary

While turkey hotdogs may cause little to no harm to your dog when given in moderation, it’s always best to consult your vet on what’s safe to add to his diet or treats.

If your dog isn’t allergic to any of the ingredients in the turkey hotdog, then giving him in small amounts shouldn’t be a problem.

Don’t forget to look out for the ingredients to avoid feeding him anything that might be harmful.

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Megan Turner

Hi, my name is Megan Turner and I have worked in a dog’s shelter for four years now. It is truly my dream job, and I see hundreds of dogs every month being united with new owners to give them a loving forever home.

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