Do you love the taste of red pepper flakes in some of your favorite recipes? If so, you’re not alone! Many people love the spiciness of red pepper flakes! But what happens if a dog eats red pepper flakes?
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Has your dog eaten red pepper flakes? Are you worried the red pepper flakes will make your dog sick? If so, then you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when your dog eats something he shouldn’t.
In this article, we’ll take a look at red pepper flakes and whether or not they can make your dog sick. Let’s get started!
What are Red Pepper Flakes?
Red pepper flakes are made from a mix of peppers, which contain capsaicin. This is the substance in peppers that make them taste hot.
The peppers used in red pepper flakes are usually from cayenne peppers. The spice also contains the seeds of the peppers used to make red pepper flakes. The seeds also contain a high amount of capsaicin.
While humans can safely eat red pepper flakes, what about dogs? Can red pepper flakes make a dog sick?
Red Pepper Flakes & Dogs
The capsaicin in red pepper flakes really isn’t very good for dogs. While the red peppers are not toxic to dogs, the capsaicin makes the spice too hot for most dogs. It’s a substance that can cause digestive tract irritation in dogs.
Some dogs may be able to stomach one lick of red pepper flakes; however, there are other dogs who have very sensitive stomachs. There’s a chance these dogs could become sick from eating the spice.
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Ask a Vet Live NowDogs Can’t Taste the Spiciness of Red Pepper Flakes
Why can’t dogs tell that red pepper flakes are too spicy for them? The problem is that dogs do not have taste receptors that register spicy or “hot” flavors. Even so, the capsaicin in red pepper flakes can still irritate the stomach lining, mouth, and throat tissues.
How Much is Too Much for Dogs?
There’s no specific amount of red pepper flakes that can cause a problem in dogs. A dog’s reaction to capsaicin depends on his size, his underlying health issues, and how much spicy food he can tolerate.
In general, one to two flakes are safe for a large dog, and a small dog may be able to tolerate about half that amount.
Symptoms of Red Pepper Ingestion in Dogs
You may notice these symptoms if your dog has eaten red pepper flakes:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Indigestion
- Vomiting
- Dehydration
- Increased heart rate
These symptoms may last about 24 hours; however, if they last longer, then it’s time to call the vet. Your dog could be in danger of becoming dehydrated and more. Plus, you know he has to feel miserable!
To help your dog feel better, the vet has medications that can treat your dog’s symptoms after eating red pepper flakes. The vet has medicine to treat diarrhea, stomach upset, and vomiting. They will also check to see if your dog has become dehydrated. In that case, the vet may use an IV with fluids to get your dog rehydrated.
The good news is that your dog will make a complete recovery after eating red pepper flakes. And we’re pretty sure he will avoid eating red pepper flakes in the future!
Prevent Your Dog from Eating Red Pepper Flakes
Here are some steps you can take to keep your fur baby from eating red pepper flakes:
- Keep the red pepper flakes out of your dog’s reach.
- Never allow your dog to eat red pepper flakes directly off your plate.
- Clean up flakes that are spilled right away, otherwise your dog will do it!
- Wash your hands after handling red pepper flakes before petting or feeding your dog.
- Invest in secure wastebaskets and trash cans. (Check out the dog-proof versions online).
These methods can keep your dog from accessing red pepper flakes and becoming sick.
Is There a Healthy Option of Peppers Safe for Dogs?
Yes! If your dog loves spicy food that’s not too hot for him, you can ask your vet about giving your fur baby raw red bell peppers. These are not toxic to dogs, and they are healthy for dogs. Red bell peppers are low in calories, contain no fat, are high in vitamin C & beta carotene, and are high in fiber.
However, it’s important to ask the vet about how much red bell pepper is safe for your dog. Generally, a large dog may have about ½ a pepper a day, and a small dog ¼ of a pepper a day. Be sure to follow your vet’s guidance on the right amount of red bell pepper for your dog.
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Julie
Julie is a graduate of the University of North Carolina, Wilmington, where she studied Animal science. Though contrary to the opinion of her parents she was meant to study pharmacy, but she was in love with animals especially cats. Julie currently works in an animal research institute (NGO) in California and loves spending quality time with her little cat. She has the passion for making research about animals, how they survive, their way of life among others and publishes it. Julie is also happily married with two kids.
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