Can dogs eat Goldfish Crackers?

 

can dogs eat goldfish crackers?

 

Goldfish crackers are not the safest or healthiest treat for your pet dog. According to the manufacturer’s ingredient label, they contain less than 2% unlisted, generic spices and onion powder. Now, “less than 2%” is not a large amount, but as previous posts disclose, onion and garlic are both toxic for your dog. Chances are, if your precious pooch consumes a few Goldfish by accident, they will tolerate the crackers just fine. However, if you suspect your canine friend ate a substantial amount of the loveable human snack and is exhibiting the signs of food poisoning mentioned in other posts, please contact your local veterinary hospital as soon as possible.

 

Salt and dogs

Additionally, Goldfish crackers contain 250 mg of sodium per human serving. We know your pooch isn’t likely to chow down on 55 crackers at one time, but those tiny smiling fish add up quickly. Salt is actually toxic to dogs, especially in high ratios like that in Goldfish crackers. Symptoms of salt toxicity in your pup include the following:

  • swelling
  • disorientation
  • increased thirst
  • urination
  • seizures.

For more info check out our post on dogs and salt.

If your furry friend is exhibiting any of these symptoms please call your vet immediately, or take your dog to the nearest animal hospital.

 

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Wheat and dogs

While the unknown spice, onion and high salt content of the cracker is the most dangerous to your dog, the rest of the cracker is not necessarily healthy either.

Wheat, the first ingredient in Goldfish crackers, is not poisonous to your dog. In fact, whole wheat may even have some health benefits such as assisting in the growth of good bacteria which aids in your dog’s digestion or provide fiber which can keep your pup regular and full longer. Both enriched wheat and whole wheat are contributors of carbohydrates to the modern dog’s diet.

 

How much wheat is enough?

The topic of carbohydrates in a dog’s diet is a new and rather interesting debate. Despite accounting for 30-70% of most commercial dog foods, several studies have shown that dogs require very little carbohydrates in their diet. Your pooch is able to synthesize most of the amino acids they require from protein in fat. But Fido is still an omnivore (meat and plant eater) and the carbohydrates associated with goldfish crackers are not likely to pose an immediate health risk. However, too many carbohydrates from refined wheat, such as that found in Goldfish crackers may pack the pounds on your pup. Always be cautious when feeding processed food to your canine companion. Whenever possible check out whole wheat alternatives!

 

Have you ever mistakenly given Goldfish crackers in place of a more suitable dog treat? What was your experience? Let us know!