Can Dogs Eat Bacon?

Bacon is not a good treat for dogs. It is very fatty and very salty. A lot of rich, fatty food can inflame the pancreas, which is called pancreatitis. This can be serious. A tiny bite will not poison most dogs, but vets and the AKC say it is best to skip it.

Why is bacon bad for dogs?

Bacon has two main problems: fat and salt.

The AKC says bacon is rich and fatty, with a lot of salt. Too much can cause pancreatitis, which the AKC says can be fatal. The AKC also notes that processed meats like bacon have been linked to cancer in people.

Salt matters too. The ASPCA says too much salt can make a dog very thirsty and make them pee more. In bad cases it can upset the salt balance in the blood. The Pet Poison Helpline says severe salt poisoning can cause vomiting, diarrhea, stumbling, tremors, seizures, and collapse. A normal strip of bacon is far from that, but it shows why salty snacks are a poor choice.

What is pancreatitis?

Pancreatitis is a painful swelling of the pancreas, an organ that helps your dog digest food. The Merck Veterinary Manual says the exact cause is often unknown. Eating trash, large amounts of table scraps, or other food a dog should not eat is believed to be a common trigger. Some breeds, such as Miniature Schnauzers and Dachshunds, are at higher risk.

In severe cases, signs include:

• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Weakness
• Belly pain
• Dehydration
• Diarrhea

Mild cases may show up as eating less, being tired, or having loose stool. Treatment can mean a stay at the vet with fluids and pain medicine. Dogs that recover are usually moved to a low-fat diet and low-fat treats.

How much bacon is too much?

None of the sources we read give a safe amount of bacon. We won’t make up a number. A larger serving, such as several strips, a plate of leftovers, or a whole package, is much riskier than a crumb.

Other kinds of bacon

Can dogs eat bacon fat or bacon grease?

No. Bacon fat is the fatty part of bacon in its most concentrated form, so the pancreatitis concern is even stronger. We did not find a source that gives a safe amount. Do not pour grease on your dog’s food. Also keep the pan and the grease can out of reach. If your dog licks up a lot, call your vet.

Can dogs eat raw bacon?

No. The AKC warns that raw or undercooked pork can carry a parasite that causes trichinosis. Signs can include upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, tiredness, and sore muscles. The ASPCA also says raw meat can carry bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, which can make pets and people sick. Wash your hands and tools after handling it.

Can dogs eat cooked bacon?

Cooked bacon removes the raw-meat worry, but it is still very fatty and salty. It is not a good treat. If your dog sneaks one small piece, watch them for a day or so.

What about bacon with seasoning or sauce?

Be extra careful. The AKC warns that seasonings such as onion powder and garlic powder are dangerous for dogs. Barbecue sauce can have garlic, onion, salt, and sugar. Don’t share glazed or spiced bacon.

What should I do if my dog ate bacon?

1. Take away any bacon, grease, or packaging that is left.
2. Think about how much your dog ate and how big your dog is.
3. For a bite or two, watch for vomiting, diarrhea, tiredness, or not wanting to eat.
4. For a large amount, or if signs show up, call your vet or a poison hotline.

Don’t try to make your dog throw up at home unless a vet tells you to.

What can I give my dog instead?

Pick a plain, low-fat treat. Many dogs like small pieces of apple (no seeds or core) or banana. Our guides to apples and bananas show how to serve them. Treats of all kinds should be no more than about 10% of your dog’s daily calories. For more foods to avoid, see our list of foods that are toxic to dogs.