A dog with a wary expression looking at curry, showing they are harmful to dogs.

Can Dogs Eat Curry?

No, dogs should not eat curry. While it might be tempting to share your delicious meal with your furry friend, curry contains several ingredients that can be harmful to dogs. Spices like chili powder, garlic, and onions can upset your dog's stomach and potentially lead to more serious health issues.

A photo of Stefan Stumpfl, the co-author of this article.

By Stefan Stumpfl, in collaboration with Dr. Ali Raza.

Updated on Jun 5, 2024

Did You Know?

The spices in curry, such as turmeric or cumin, can upset a dog's stomach and cause digestive issues.

Curry

HARMFUL

Nutrition

Rating: 1 out of 5 stars🍏

Taste

Rating: 2 out of 5 stars🍪🍪

Digestibility

Rating: 1 out of 5 stars👍

Feeding Frequency

AVOID

Allergic Risk

MODERATE

Why is Curry Bad for Dogs?

Curry often contains ingredients such as onions, garlic, and spices that are toxic to dogs. Onions and garlic can damage a dog's red blood cells, leading to anemia. Spices can cause gastrointestinal distress, resulting in symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. Moreover, many curries contain high levels of fat, which can contribute to pancreatitis in dogs.

How Much Curry Can Dogs Eat?

Ideally, dogs should not consume any curry at all. Even a small amount can cause digestive issues and discomfort. If your dog accidentally eats a tiny bit, it’s unlikely to be fatal, but you should monitor them closely for any signs of distress and avoid giving them any more.

Common Misconceptions

Some dog owners believe that a little bit of human food like curry won’t harm their pets. However, even small amounts of ingredients like garlic and onions can be harmful over time. It's better to be safe and avoid giving your dog any curry, no matter how tempting it is to share.

Similar Harmful Products

  • Spiced Foods: Any food heavily spiced or containing chili powder, cumin, or turmeric should be avoided.
  • Garlic and Onion-Containing Foods: Soups, stews, and even some baby foods often contain onion or garlic powder.
  • Indian Snacks: Samosas, pakoras, and other spiced snacks can contain harmful ingredients for dogs.

What to Do If Your Dog Eats Curry?

If your dog eats curry, immediately assess how much and what kind of curry they have eaten. Contact your vet for advice, especially if the curry contained garlic or onions. Do not induce vomiting without professional guidance; improper methods can cause more harm than good.

Swallowing harmful ingredients like garlic and onions can be serious. Long-term consumption can lead to organ damage, anemia, or pancreatitis. These conditions are costly to treat, so consider pet insurance to manage unexpected vet bills and ensure your pet gets the care they need.

What are Healthy Alternatives?

Instead of risky human foods, try offering these dog-friendly, tasty alternatives:

  • Plain Cooked Chicken: A great protein source that's easy on the stomach.
  • Sweet Potatoes: Rich in fiber and vitamins, great as a treat or mixed in with their regular food.
  • Carrots: Low-calorie and good for dental health.

Conclusion

Curry is not a suitable food for dogs due to the many harmful ingredients it often contains. Always consult your vet before introducing any new food into your dog's diet, especially if they have specific health concerns. Opt for safe, nutritious alternatives to keep your furry friend happy and healthy.