Salt (Excess)
CautionVerdict
Use caution — large amounts cause sodium poisoning.
Verdict
Dogs need small amounts of sodium in their diet, but excess salt causes sodium ion poisoning. This can happen from eating large amounts of salty snacks, rock salt, ocean water, or homemade play-dough (which is very high in salt). Even a few grams per kilogram of body weight can be fatal. Always provide fresh water, but note that giving too much water too fast after salt ingestion can also be dangerous.
Symptoms to watch for
- • excessive thirst and urination
- • vomiting
- • diarrhea
- • lethargy
- • swelling
- • seizures
What to do
If your dog ate a very salty food, offer water in small amounts (do not let them drink excessively) and contact your vet. Severe cases require IV fluid therapy with carefully controlled sodium correction.
Related foods
Xylitol
DeadlyDeadly — even tiny amounts can kill a dog.
Human FoodRaw Yeast Dough
ToxicNever — expands in the stomach and produces alcohol.
Human FoodChocolate
ToxicNever — toxic, potentially fatal in large amounts.
Human FoodCorn on the Cob
CautionDangerous — the cob causes life-threatening obstruction.
Human Food