Pork is one of my favorite meats, and it is always on our family menu. It is a huge hit in our house, from sizzling morning bacon to lunchtime salami and pork ribs for dinner (probably not on the same day). If you’re wondering if your dog can have pork meat, the answer is yes; dogs can eat plain, cooked pork in moderation. But there are many types of pork they shouldn’t eat. So before you add it to their menu or give in to their hopeful stares, let’s explore everything you need to know about dogs eating pork. I also discuss when pork is bad for dogs and a selection of my favorite pork doggy treats.
Can Dogs Eat Pork?
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If you’re digging into your favorite meal and wondering whether your dog can eat pork loin or share your pork chops, most dogs can eat plain, cooked pork in moderation. Pork comes in a variety of cuts, and the way it is prepared and the seasonings determine whether it is safe or not. So, let’s explore the different types of pork and what your dog can eat safely.
Can Dogs Eat Cooked Pork?
Yes, dogs can eat most cooked pork as long as it is plain, cooked properly, lean, and only in moderation. It should be free from seasonings, spices, and oils. Although a bit of seasoning is okay, ideally, it should be plain. Some of the most common seasonings in human food, such as garlic and onions, are toxic to dogs. Too much salt can cause salt toxicity, leading to excessive thirst, unbalanced electrolytes, and further health problems. Determining what ingredients are in pre-seasoned pork is difficult, so it’s best to avoid them altogether. Also, given the high-fat content of most pork cuts, moderation is vital, even with unseasoned pig meat.
Can Dogs Eat Raw Pork?
We have a guide on whether dogs can eat raw meat because it is a hugely contentious subject. According to Veterinarian Dr. Rebecca MacMillan, although feeding dogs raw diets has become popular, it is also very controversial.
Despite some owners’ anecdotal evidence about the health benefits for their pets, there are few scientific studies to support this. Instead, the studies show us the potential risks of harmful bacteria. This makes sense, as this is why people cook their meat before eating it – to avoid food poisoning. Bacteria such as salmonella and anti-microbial resistant E. coli found in many raw meat samples can survive the freezing process and need to be killed through cooking. In my experience, most vets would not recommend feeding raw, particularly to animals with lowered immune systems, like puppies and pregnant, elderly, or unwell dogs.
In addition to the general worries about feeding raw meat to your dog, raw pork products can contain a parasite called Trichinella spiralis, a type of worm. It affects humans and dogs who eat undercooked or raw meat, usually pork. Once consumed, the worm cysts hatch into larvae, travel around the body, and form cysts in the dog’s muscles. Infection is more likely in dogs with weak immune systems or those regularly consuming spoiled meats.
The MSD Veterinary Manual states that the only way to protect your pets from trichinosis is to give them pork that has been cooked or frozen correctly. Freezing kills cysts only in pork; it isn’t suitable for any other meat product. Therefore, raw pork is not safe for dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Pork Bones?
No, dogs cannot eat pork bones. Splintered bones can be sharp, which can cause internal injuries, internal bleeding, perforation in the digestive tract, or a blockage in the bowel. Another serious risk when feeding your dog bones is that they could become a choking hazard. So, it’s best to avoid them at all costs.
Can Dogs Eat Pork Chops?
Yes, dogs can eat pork chops. They are rich in protein, essential amino acids, and other nutrients. It’s important to remove the pork chop bone, as it can splinter easily. Watch this comical video of Tucker Budzyn trying to resist a cooked pork chop while his mom left the room. Did he pass the ultimate test? I don’t think my Doxie would!
Can Dogs Eat Ground Pork?
Yes, dogs can eat ground pork if it is cooked properly. Ground meat poses a higher risk of bacteria, so you must thoroughly cook it. Before you chuck your cooked ground meat into your dish, sauces, or other ingredients, set aside the plain ground meat as a tasty meal-topper treat.
Can Dogs Eat Pork Ribs?
No, it’s unsafe for your dog to eat pork rib bones. You shouldn’t give your dog any raw or cooked bones; they are a choking hazard and can cause internal injuries. Bones that have become stuck might require emergency surgery or be fatal. Plus, pork ribs are often smothered in condiments, such as BBQ sauce. These can contain dangerous ingredients such as sugar, spices, chilies, xylitol (a sugar substitute), and more.
Can Dogs Have Bacon?
Dogs shouldn’t eat bacon. Cooked and raw bacon is high in fat and salt and offers little protein or nutrition. Although a tiny amount of bacon shouldn’t harm your pet, there are much better pork choices. Most dogs can eat a tiny amount of bacon without worry, including licking some bacon grease. In my house, the smell of bacon automatically triggers irresistible puppy eyes. However, as much as my medium-sized dog Bonkers loves it, the smallest amount of bacon gives him an upset tummy. In contrast, my tiny Doxie Chips can eat some bacon without any adverse reaction.
Can Dogs Eat Ham?
Dogs can eat plain, cooked ham in moderation. Ham is a popular meat, especially during celebrations or family get-togethers. If you’re serving this meat, it’s only polite to wonder whether Fido can have a small slice. However, ham usually has a high sodium and fat content, which is unhealthy for dogs. They can be flavored or cooked in sauces, so avoid these hams. Although dogs can eat plain ham as an occasional treat, they have much better options.
Can Dogs Eat Salami?
Dogs can eat a minimal amount of salami without having to worry. However, there are more concerns with salami than ham, so ideally, you shouldn’t give your dog salami. Salami is a cured sausage made with various meat (traditionally pork or beef). It usually contains a mixture of seasoning, spices, and vinegar that might be toxic to Fido. Plus, it is super high in fat, up to 80%. In most cases, the salami curing process involves fermentation and drying so that it is ready to eat. As it isn’t cooked, it might contain bacteria such as E.coli, listeria, and salmonella.
Can Dogs Eat Sausage?
Depending on what is inside the sausage, dogs may be able to eat a little bit. Fresh country or breakfast sausages typically contain only a few herbs or seasonings. The meat, usually pork, is the star of the show. These sausages need to be cooked. As long as they don’t contain too many added ingredients, dogs can eat a chunk of sausage as a treat.
Is Pork Good For Dogs? 5 Benefits
Like anything, your dog should eat pork in moderation, and some types are bad for dogs. However, the correct kind of pork can have many health benefits.
- Pork is an easy-to-digest protein.
- It’s a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are excellent for skin and joint health.
- Pork is rich in amino acids, which are essential for canine health.
- Pork organs, including the heart and liver, provide protein and other essential vitamins and minerals.
- Last but definitely not least, it’s tasty.
3 Best Pork Treats For Dogs
Dogs can eat pork, but there are restrictions on what types of pork they can eat, depending on what it contains. If you want a more convenient and safer way to introduce pork into Fido’s diet without worrying about it, there are a few high-quality pork food and treat options. Here are my top three pork dog treats.
Stella & Chewy’s Meal Mixers Purely Pork Review
Stella & Chewy’s is a popular dog food brand offering high-quality products. One of the options in their Meal Mixers range is Purely Pork. These freeze-dried raw nuggets contain a single source of animal protein: 95% pork, organs, and bone. You can give your pup these all-natural pieces as a complete meal, meal toppers, or training treats. They also contain organic cranberries, spinach, other anti-oxidants, and probiotics to boost their immunity and support healthy digestion. Customers state these are a huge hit with their fussy pups.
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If you want to learn more about this highly rated brand check out our Stella & Chewy’s dog food reviews. We explore our favorite Stella & Chewy’s products and share our firsthand experiences, including what our team’s dogs think of them.
Premium Pork Chomps Roasted Pork Ribz Review
Premium Pork Chomp’s Roasted Pork Ribz are oven-baked pork skin shaped into pork ribs. Each pack contains ten treats, and they are rawhide-free. These rawhide alternative treats are safe and easier to digest, too. Reviews mention they last a long time and are an excellent choice for heavy chewers. They only contain two ingredients: pigskin and sugar. Even though each chew contains less than 1% sugar, they should be given as an occasional treat.
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Learn more about rawhide bones and why they can be dangerous. We also have a guide on other high-quality rawhide alternatives that your dog will probably love.
Full Moon Sliced Pork Jerky Treats Review
These human-grade, all-natural pork treats are slow-cooked USA pork that retains its juicy nutrients. Each pork jerky strip contains 36 calories and is excellent as a high-reward training treat. The natural cane sugar keeps the meat soft and chewy, and rosemary extract is a natural preservative. They are also easy to pull apart for smaller dogs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
We know that some of our readers still have questions about whether their dogs can eat pork meat. If you don’t see your question in our FAQs, please ask us in the comments below, and we’ll find the answer for you.
Is Pork Healthy For Dogs?
Generally speaking, plain, cooked pork in moderation is a healthy treat for most dogs. Pork has an excellent amino acid profile and is low in sodium, which is a better option for dogs with heart concerns.
When Is Pork Bad For Dogs?
On the flip side, pork can be high in sodium and highly fatty depending on the cut and how the pork is cooked. Pork is also high in potassium, which isn’t recommended for dogs who suffer from kidney disease. You should avoid giving your dog processed pork, as high consumption of these highly fatty and salty meats can lead to heart disease or dog pancreatitis.
What Is The Best Type Of Pork For Dogs?
The best type of pork for dogs is plain pork meat with no seasoning, condiments, too much fat, or bones. Although dogs can have a little bacon or salami, there are much better choices.
Learn More About What Other Food Dogs Can Eat Safely
If you’re anything like me, you enjoy sharing your yummy food with your beloved pets. But it’s important to know that only some things on our plates are safe for dogs to eat. We have an ultimate list of fruits and vegs that dogs can and cannot eat. Another excellent protein source is fish, but like pork, some types of fish are good for dogs and other times, they are dangerous. We also have a guide on why dogs love peanut butter with safety information you might not know about.
Does your dog like eating pork meat? Do you have a favorite go-to pork treat that you think I should add to my list? We would love to hear from our readers, so please let us know in the comments below.
Why Trust Canine Journal?
Emma is the mom to two rescue dogs, Bonkers and Chips. They both love pork and eat it as a weekly treat. Before writing for Canine Journal, Emma was a professional dog walker and sitter and has taken care of many breeds with different needs. She has yet to meet a dog that doesn’t beg for bacon! Emma is passionate about sharing her wealth of doggy experience with her readers and works with a dedicated team to bring them the best and most up-to-date doggy content.