Can Dogs Eat Raw Sausages? [Guide]

Many people believe that feeding your dog raw meat is more natural and healthier. And it’s true they can and in many ways, it has some incredible health benefits for your dog. However, you need to consider the quality and type of meat that you are feeding your dog.

When it comes to eating raw sausage (pork) we advise against it. Raw or undercooked Sausages made from pork have the potential to make your dog quite sick. The main reason is that raw sausages sometimes contain bacteria and parasites that can make your dog sick. Admittedly the chances of getting a bacterial or parasitic infection from store-bought meat are incredibly low these days due to the fact health standards and the way domestic pigs are raised has drastically improved in safety and quality in recent years.

dog eating raw sausage

We need to cook sausages thoroughly to kill any germs that might be present. The most common germ that is usually associated with pork is called Trichinella Spiralis. Plant-eating animals like pigs are commonly infected with larvae from this parasitic worm. 

It is worth knowing that if you’re living in the USA or a country that has high health standards, the chances of your dog getting Trichinella are quite low since many precautions are taken when preparing and selling the meat. Domestic pigs are usually OK, the virus is mainly found in wild boars not commercially raised pigs.

The Concerns Regarding Raw Sausages and Dogs

The main concern when it comes to raw sausages is the risk of bacterial contamination. Raw meat often sausages can contain harmful bacteria. These bacteria can cause serious illness in both dogs and humans. Although dogs are known for their robust digestive system they can still get sick from specific types of bacteria. This is the main reason we usually cook our food, to kill any bacteria to ensure our safety.

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Symptoms of a Bacterial/Parasitic Infection in Dogs

  • Diarrhea: If your dog has frequent loose stools, it could be a sign of an infection.
  • Vomiting: Sometimes dogs will vomit if they’re feeling sick. This can be accompanied by a lack of appetite and energy.
  • Fever: If your dog’s temperature is higher than normal, it could mean they have an infection.
  • Skin rashes or lesions: Infections can sometimes cause skin irritation or inflammation, which might show up as redness, bumps, or scabs.
  • Loss of appetite: If your dog doesn’t want to eat, it could be a sign that they’re not feeling well.
  • Lethargy or weakness: If your dog is acting more tired than usual or isn’t as interested in playing, it could be a sign of an infection.

Should Dogs Eat Sausages in General

The truth is that even if the sausages are cooked they’re still not really a great thing to give to your dog. Most sausages contain ridiculously high amounts of fat, salt, and additives none of which are healthy for your dog. Additionally, some types of sausage are mixed together with herbs and spices even ingredients like onions and garlic which are severely toxic to dogs. 

If you are really adamant that you want to feed your dog sausages it’s important to choose the right type and prepare them in the correct way. You should try to find sausages that are low in fat and free from onion and garlic (and also other herbs which are toxic to dogs). The sausages sound also be thoroughly cooked to ensure that any bacteria or parasites have been killed.

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Conclusion

Whilst dogs might love raw sausages and love to gobble them down, it’s really not the best idea and we don’t recommend that you feed them to your dogs. There are many risks of bacterial and parasitic infection (Although the chances are low) as well as the fact they are just outright unhealthy. They are full of fat, and salt and sometimes contain mixed-in ingredients which are toxic to dogs like garlic and onions.

If you have any concerns about your dog’s diet, or you believe they’ve eaten something they shouldn’t have it’s best to contact your local vet or talk to one online to seek advice and peace of mind.