Sauerkraut for Dogs. Safe or Unsafe?

Did you know that some foods in your pantry can be unsafe, and even toxic to your dog?

Food items like grapes, tomatoes, garlic, etc. are harmful to dogs and can cause a range of problems–from toxic reactions to, in some cases, even death. This is why you should always look up a food item before giving it to your dog.

It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

In this blog post, we will go through everything you need to know about Sauerkraut for dogs.

Keep reading to know more.

Can I Give My Dog Sauerkraut?

Yes, Sauerkraut is completely safe for dogs, and they can have it without any problems. Sauerkraut is basically fermented cabbage, making it safe for canine consumption.

You don’t have to worry too much if your dog took a bite off something that contains Sauerkraut. I love to put some on my hot dogs, and my dog enjoys the flavor as much as I do.

Here Are Some Health Benefits of Sauerkraut for Dogs!

Not only is Sauerkraut safe for your furry friend but, it also has several health benefits, so adding some to his diet may be a great idea!

Take a look at some of the health benefits.

Excellent for Skin and Coat

Sauerkraut is an excellent source of Vitamin A and antioxidants, which makes it excellent for your dog’s skin and coat. Several skin issues, such as dermatosis, are linked to Vitamin A deficiencies. Vitamin A is also linked to tissue repair and growth.

Improves Gastrointestinal Health

Does your doggy have tummy issues?

In that case, Sauerkraut can be an excellent and natural solution. Thanks to the fermentation, Sauerkraut is rich in probiotics or good bacteria, improving your dog’s gut health. Cabbage is rich in fiber, which helps reduce flatulence, bloating, and constipation.

That’s not all, though.

Sauerkraut helps improve the enzymatic activity in your furry friends’ gut, reducing his chances of getting gastric ulcers and chronic diarrhea common in dogs with irritable bowel syndrome.

Great for the Heart

Since Sauerkraut is Lacto-fermented, it is an excellent source of probiotics that help reduce levels of cholesterol.

Probiotics also play a part in keeping a dog’s weight in check and helping obese dogs lose weight, thus, lowering the risks of developing heart issues. 

Excellent for Bone Health and the Immune System

Sauerkraut is rich in minerals that help in bone growth and development–excellent for developing puppies–additionally, Vitamin K2, along with other minerals, strengthens the bones.

Sauerkraut is a great source of Vitamin C, which plays a vital role in supporting the immune system. In addition to that, Vitamin C also improves the regeneration of cells and the production of white blood cells.

A healthy snack, isn’t it?

Sauerkraut and Its Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Thanks to the Phytonutrients in Sauerkraut, improvements in joint and muscle pain for dogs that have musculoskeletal problems such as arthritis get some degree of relief from these conditions.

So, How Do I Give Sauerkraut to My Dog!?

After reading about all of these amazing benefits, I’m sure you’d like to add some Sauerkraut to your furry friends’ diet.

Let’s take a look at how!

Should I Give My Dog Cooked Sauerkraut?

Cooked Sauerkraut is safe for dogs to consume.

However, each dog is different and has different preferences. Two of my dogs devour cooked Sauerkraut within seconds, while one doesn’t like how it smells and steers clear of it.

Try giving your dog a small amount first.

Meat and Sauerkraut: Will That Work?

I love Sauerkraut on my hot dogs–that’s one perfect combination.

It is completely safe to give your dog Sauerkraut with an assortment of meats. Dogs thrive on a meat-based diet, and those who don’t like Sauerkraut by itself will have it once it’s paired with the meat of their choice!

Some people also like to add it to their furry friends’ kibble, which seems to work as well.

Pork, Hot Dog, or Chicken: What’s Best?

The answer depends on what your dog likes.

You can add Sauerkraut to any kind of meat your dog likes–be it chicken, hot dogs, or pork–as long as it is something your dog will eat.

Raw Food Diet and Sauerkraut

If your dog is on a raw food diet, you can mix some Sauerkraut with his meal and enjoy the health benefits!

The Serving Size: How Much Is Too Much?

Most experts believe that you can give your dog between 1 to 3 teaspoons of Sauerkraut per 20 pounds of body weight. Try not to give more as store-bought Sauerkraut tends to contain a lot of salt, which isn’t good for your furry friend.

You can learn more about Sauerkraut for dogs in this video:

Which Is Better: Homemade or Store-Bought?

Packaged foods available in supermarkets aren’t always the healthiest option. They contain artificial coloring, preservatives, excessive salt, etc. to make them taste and look better and have a longer shelf life.

These artificial ingredients, in large enough quantities, maybe unhealthy for both you and your doggy friend.

So, it is best to stick to homemade Sauerkraut as you get to enjoy the wholesome benefits!

In Conclusion: Can I Give My Dog Sauerkraut?

Sauerkraut is safe for dogs to consume and has several health benefits, making it an excellent addition to your dog’s diet.

Homemade Sauerkraut is the healthiest option for your dog as it doesn’t contain excessive sodium and artificial ingredients. However, you can give your dog ready-made Sauerkraut, too, but in limited quantities.

How much grapefruit is toxic to dogs?

Do you have any questions? Let us know in the comments!