Can Dogs Eat Turkey Sandwich Meat? The Dos and Don’ts

Many pet owners wonder if it’s safe to share a bit of their turkey sandwich with their canine companion. Turkey is a healthy meat for humans. But when it comes to dogs, not all people food should be pet food. Processed deli meats like turkey can pose some risks.

Dogs have different nutritional needs than humans Their systems are not designed to handle highly processed foods loaded with preservatives Before you let your dog lick that turkey and cheese sandwich, learn whether this common human food is safe for canine consumption.

What Risks Do Deli Meats Pose for Dogs?

Veterinarians caution against giving dogs too much deli meat. Ingredients commonly added to sandwich meats make them less than ideal for pups. Here are some of the potential risks:

• High Sodium Content: Most deli meats contain very high levels of sodium to enhance flavor and shelf life. Excessive sodium can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs. It also puts dogs at risk of potentially deadly salt poisoning.

• Nitrates and Nitrites These chemical preservatives keep meats looking pink and fresh. However, high nitrate/nitrite consumption is linked to some cancers in humans. While not definitively proven in dogs many vets recommend avoiding excess nitrates/nitrites.

• Other Unhealthy Additives Processed meats frequently contain flavor enhancers, sugars, artificial colors, and chemical stabilizers that may negatively impact canine health

So while the turkey itself is not toxic, some added ingredients in sandwich meats could cause problems, especially if dogs eat them regularly.

Can Dogs Have Any Deli Meat at All?

While lunch meats come with some cautions, dogs can occasionally have small taste in moderation. The American Kennel Club confirms that deli meats won’t seriously harm dogs if given sparingly in tiny amounts. A few pieces of all-natural, no-salt-added turkey now and then is unlikely to cause issues.

To minimize any risks, choose plain turkey with the fewest additives. Check the label carefully to make sure it does not list onion, garlic, or other seasonings that are toxic for dogs. Low-sodium options are ideal. And be sure to only feed real deli turkey, not processed “turkey loaf” or “turkey pastrami” which may contain other unacceptable ingredients.

Healthier Alternatives to Deli Meat

While the occasional tiny morsel won’t hurt, there are much healthier human foods to give dogs for a meaty treat. Here are some better options:

• Cooked, boneless, skinless chicken or turkey – Plain lean meat without fat or seasoning is safest. Avoid cooked bones.

• Canned dog food – High-quality wet food offers a meaty taste dogs love. Opt for low-sodium products.

• Dog treats or jerky – Numerous brands make turkey and chicken jerky for dogs with no seasonings or additives.

• Frozen or freeze-dried raw food – Provides balanced nutrition while delivering the meaty flavors dogs naturally crave.

• Plain scrambled eggs – Cooked eggs make a great protein-packed snack dogs love. Avoid adding salt, cheese, or other extras.

Serving Deli Meat Safely and Responsibly

If you do choose to occasionally share deli meat:

• Select plain, low-sodium all-natural turkey. Avoid flavored, smoked, or seasoning-containing options.

• Check the ingredient label. Make sure none of the ingredients are toxic for dogs.

• Only feed your dog a tiny amount – a few pieces the size of a dime. Too much can cause stomach upset.

• Never give dogs deli meat straight from the package. Bacteria can grow on refrigerated lunch meats and make dogs sick.

• Monitor your dog closely. If they seem distressed or have digestive issues afterward, avoid giving deli meat again.

While lunch meat won’t immediately poison dogs, it does carry some risks. Feeding a small amount once in awhile likely won’t cause harm. But for optimal nutrition and health, there are better meat-based foods to choose for dogs. Talk to your vet if you have any concerns over what people foods are safe to sneak into your dog’s diet.

The Takeaway: Use Caution With Deli Meats

Many owners are tempted to share a scrap of their sandwich with their begging pup. But the highly processed ingredients in most lunch meats make them less than ideal for dogs. While not immediately toxic, the additives may cause health issues over time, especially if fed regularly. If you do choose to give your dog the occasional small morsel of plain, low-sodium deli turkey, balance it out with plenty of fresh, home-cooked dog food and healthy store-bought kibble or canned dog food for a nutritious diet.