Ham is a staple during many American holidays. You’re slicing a baked ham at the dinner table or making yourself a ham sandwich, you may want to share a piece with your dog. You may think, “What’s the harm in giving him a juicy slice or two?” Maybe none, but there are things to consider before feeding your dog ham.
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Can Dogs Eat Ham?
While it won’t kill or injure your dog right sway, it is not good for them.
Technically, it is a protein, and dogs need protein. However, store bought ham often contains a lot of salt. Salt is good for people in moderation, but dogs don’t need the same amount of sodium as you do.
When dogs get too much salt, they can experience a spike in blood pressure, dehydration, excessive thirst, and even swelling in their limbs. It can also lead to an upset stomach that results in diarrhea or vomiting.
Ham also has a higher fat content than many other types of meat. Your dog’s diet likely already has the appropriate amount of healthy fats that your pup requires, ham would only be an unnecessary addition and result in possible digestive issues for your pet, instead. Too much fat can lead to pancreatitis and other digestive upsets. And if your dog is overweight, you’ll be doing him no favors by sharing the holiday ham with him.
Should Your Dog Eat Ham?
While keeping all of these warnings in mind, it probably won’t hurt your dog if you give him a little slice of tasty ham once in a while. As with any processed food, too much can certainly lead to nausea, diarrhea, or even vomiting, so your dog’s sampling should be kept to the bare minimum to avoid any potential side effects. So if you are not 100% sure, it’s best saved for your own ham sandwich.
