Many pet parents love using adobo sauce on chicken, pork, and more. But what happens if your dog wants some adobo? Is it safe for dogs? Can adobo make a dog sick?
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Has your dog eaten adobo? Are you worried that adobo will make your dog sick? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when your dog eats something like this.
We’ve gathered information about adobo and whether it can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What is Adobo?
Adobo is something that can be quite confusing. Adobo can be a traditional dish from the Philippines. It can also be a sauce or a seasoning! We’re talking about the adobo seasoning in this article!
Adobo is a Caribbean seasoning mix that’s rubbed on meat before cooking. There are wet and dry adobos that usually contain the same ingredients. The most popular version of adobo is a dry seasoning mix that includes the following ingredients:
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Oregano
- Salt
- Pepper
- Dried citrus (not all the time)
The result is a strong flavor that many people crave!
While adobo is safe for humans (in moderation), what about dogs? Can dogs eat adobo?
Adobo & Dogs
Unfortunately, dogs should not eat adobo. Like many seasonings, it contains ingredients that are toxic to dogs, such as garlic & onion powder. In addition, the meat rub mix contains salt, which can also be bad for dogs.
What’s more, this mix is too spicy for a dog’s digestive system. It could cause digestive upset for many dogs.

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Ask a Vet Live NowSymptoms of Adobo Ingestion in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has eaten adobo:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Gas
- Excessive thirst
If you notice these symptoms in your dog, it’s best to call the vet. This could be an emergency.
Treatment of Adobo Ingestion in Dogs
If your dog is showing symptoms, then the vet will try to give your dog some water and medications to soothe and calm his digestive tract. In addition, if your dog has had persistent diarrhea and vomiting, the vet may give your fur baby an IV with fluids to keep him hydrated and to administer medications.
Onion and garlic toxicity can cause a condition known as hemolytic anemia, which your vet will be keeping an eye out for as well. Destruction of the red blood cells occurs, making it difficult for your dog to get enough oxygen around their body. This is less likely if your dog has only eaten a small amount of adobo.
The good news is that most dogs will make a full recovery after eating adobo! In the future, it’s a good idea to keep adobo out of your dog’s reach. You’ll both be happier for it!
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Rebecca MacMillan, BVetMed BSAVA PGCertSAM MRCVS
This article has been reviewed and approved by an independent Veterinarian: Rebecca is a companion animal vet who has always had a passion for writing and client communication. Since her graduation from the Royal Veterinary college in 2009 she has gained a wealth of experience in first opinion small animal practice, in both clinical and managerial roles. She currently works in the South West and deals with a variety of routine and emergency appointments, but particularly enjoys medicine cases. Outside of work and writing, she enjoys spending time with her family, including her bouncy flat coated retriever George!
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