There are many human foods that dogs can have, but are goldfish crackers one of them? Humans can’t resist the cheesy, salty flavor of goldfish snacks, so it’s likely that dogs are the same way. For whatever reason, dogs love the taste of cheese, so if they can get a crunchy human snack with a cheese flavoring, then they’ll never stop jumping for joy! But happiness isn’t the only important factor when it comes to feeding your dog. You also need to make sure that the snack you give them is healthy and safe.
Can Dogs Have Goldfish Crackers?
Yes, dogs can have goldfish, but only in small servings. And even then, you shouldn’t hand over these crackers on purpose. Dogs love the smell of goldfish crackers, so it’s common for four-legged family members to snatch them when your back is turned. If they only steal a small amount, they’ll be fine, but it’s better to keep these treats away from your canine if possible. They’re not the healthiest food for humans, so they’re even worse for dogs. Sadly, these tasty snacks don’t provide any health benefits for dogs either.
Risks of Serving Goldfish to Dogs
The main problem with goldfish is the unhealthy ingredients they are made of: onion powder, garlic powder, and an excess of salt. So, even if they don’t cause any serious health concerns, they could lead to dehydration or an upset stomach. Dehydration could also cause urination problems or other signs of illness. You might not notice any negative effects after your dog eats one or two crackers, but too many could lead to more serious problems.
Onions and garlic are actually some of the most toxic human foods for dogs. Even small amounts of onion seasoning could lead to vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and breathing problems. Eating too much onion or garlic could cause food poisoning or it could destroy your dog’s red blood cells, which would lead to anemia. So, when it comes to salty snacks like goldfish, it’s always better to be safe than sorry.
If your dog gobbles up some goldfish crackers, make sure you keep a close eye on their behaviors. It’s a good idea to try to get them to drink plenty of water too. That can help wash down the salt and keep your dog hydrated.
If your dog shows any signs of illness after eating goldfish, you should take them to the vet as soon as possible. Ignoring these symptoms too long could be life-threatening for your pup, so don’t hesitate. Vet bills can be stressful, but sitting around while your dog gets sick will be even worse. Luckily, keeping goldfish away from your dog as much as possible can help prevent these risks.
What are Some Healthy Alternatives?
The best alternative for a salty human food is a dog-friendly version. If your dog can’t resist the taste of cheese, find a cheese-flavored dog treat to supplement goldfish. After all, dog treats won’t have a high salt content, and they should only include items that are healthy for dogs. If you’re ever unsure about which brand of treat to choose, check the ingredient list to make sure the ingredients are healthy and natural.
Real cheese is also a better option than goldfish, but it should still be served with moderation. While cheese isn’t bad for dogs, it can cause an upset stomach in high quantities. Plus, some dogs might be lactose intolerant, which would make it more difficult for them to digest cheese.
As much as your dog might love cheese-flavored items though, cheese isn’t necessary in their diet. So, instead of giving your dog salty table scraps, try to serve something more beneficial. If you give your dog small bits of healthy fruits like apples and blueberries, then you won’t have to worry about how your dog will react to it. However, if you feed your dog from the table too often, they might develop a bad habit of begging. So, maybe wait until you’re done eating to hand over any table scraps.
Yes, dogs can eat goldfish, but it’s not a smart decision to use them as dog treats. Instead, keep your salty human foods away from your furry friend and offer healthier treats instead. Your dog might seem upset at first, but they’ll be more grateful when they get to live a long, healthy life thanks to the beneficial diet you choose for them.