Why dogs should not have it
Crisps give a dog nothing of value. They are high in salt and fat, and the flavourings can contain onion and garlic powder, which are harmful to dogs.
Salt causes thirst, and eating a larger amount of salty snacks can upset the body's balance of water and salts. Fat can cause vomiting and diarrhoea, and in sensitive dogs inflammation of the pancreas. A few stolen crisps are not an emergency, but a dog should not be given crisps.
What to watch out for
- Salt causes strong thirst, and a large amount can lead to salt poisoning.
- Fat can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and inflammation of the pancreas.
- The flavourings can contain onion or garlic powder.
- A dog that puts its head into an empty crisp packet can suffocate, so throw packets away out of reach.
- Contact a vet if your dog keeps vomiting, drinks a great deal, staggers, has belly pain or becomes dull.
What it can cause
Signs that can appear after eating it. Each page explains what to look out for and when to hurry to a vet.
What to give instead
Foods that are safer to give.
- Carrots Yes, carrots are fine for dogs: raw or cooked, unseasoned and cut into pieces, they make a crunchy, low-calorie treat. Safe
- Cucumbers Yes, fresh cucumber is fine for dogs: it is mostly water and low in calories, but do not give pickled cucumbers. Safe
- Apples Yes, apples are fine for dogs: give small pieces without the core and seeds, as an occasional treat. Safe