Soy sauce is a staple in many Asian dishes, adding a savory burst of umami flavor to various meals like stir fry or chicken teriyaki. But is it safe for our canine companions?
No, dogs should not consume soy sauce due to its high salt content, according to holistic veterinarian and Chief Scientific Officer at Paw Origins, Kathryn Dench.
Discover below why soy sauce is harmful to dogs and find some vet-approved alternatives to diversify your dog’s meals.
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Why It’s Harmful
Soy sauce’s high sodium content, rather than soy itself, makes it unsuitable for dogs. “Dogs are more sensitive to salt than humans,” states Patrick Wilson, a veterinarian with Well Pet Coach.
A typical medium-sized dog weighing around 33 pounds should limit daily sodium intake to 200 milligrams (mg), but just one tablespoon of soy sauce contains 879 mg of sodium—over four times the recommended limit. Excessive salt can have serious long-term health effects on your furry friend.
Sodium Poisoning
Dr. Wilson warns that excessive salt intake can lead to sodium ion poisoning, also known as salt poisoning.
Severe cases can cause potentially fatal brain swelling. If you suspect your dog has ingested too much sodium, contact your vet or the Pet Poison Helpline immediately and watch for these symptoms:
- Excessive thirst
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Changes in bathroom habits
- Bloating
- Tremors
- Seizures
While there is no single treatment for sodium poisoning, vets typically aim to gradually reduce sodium levels using methods such as IV fluids to prevent rapid rehydration that could exacerbate brain swelling.
Dangerous Amounts
Not every instance of soy sauce consumption will result in salt poisoning, but it’s crucial to take precautions.
“The toxicity threshold for sodium in dogs varies widely based on characteristics like size, breed, and overall health,” explains Dr. Dench.
For instance, a medium to large dog may not be seriously affected by a small piece of soy sauce-marinated chicken teriyaki, but for toy breeds or dogs with conditions such as kidney disease or heart problems, even a small amount can be risky. Err on the side of caution and consult your vet if your dog ingests any soy sauce.
Dog-Safe Sauces & Toppers
“If you want to enhance your dog’s meals with flavor or variety, opt for dog-friendly alternatives,” suggests Dr. Wilson.
Although soy sauce is off-limits, consider these healthy options to add flavor to your dog’s diet:
- Pumpkin Puree: High in fiber, pumpkin can support your dog’s digestive health. Add a tablespoon to their meal, with your vet’s approval.
- Unsweetened Apple Sauce: Apples, in small amounts, offer vitamins A and C as well as fiber. Make dog-safe apple sauce by stewing and mashing cored apples, ensuring it’s free from seeds, stems, sweeteners, or seasonings.
- Low-sodium Broth: Bone broth is rich in nutrients like collagen, minerals, proteins, and amino acids. Homemade or store-bought, ensure it’s unsalted and unseasoned.
- Gravy Toppers: Purchase dog-friendly food toppers at pet stores or create a homemade gravy by mixing tapioca flour or cornstarch with unsalted bone broth, optionally adding pureed meats like plain chicken or beef.
By steering clear of soy sauce and opting for safe and nutritious alternatives, you can keep your canine companion happy and healthy.