Can Dogs Eat Spicy Food?

Whether it’s a dropped jalapeño popper, a lick of hot wings or leftover curry, many dogs will happily gobble up spicy food. But can dogs eat spicy food? It’s best not to share. Spicy foods don’t offer any benefits for dogs and can cause stomach upset. Many spicy dishes also contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs.

Why spicy food is bad for dogs

Capsaicin irritates the stomach

Hot peppers get their heat from a compound called capsaicin. In dogs, capsaicin can irritate the mouth, stomach and intestines. Signs may include:

• Drooling
• Lip licking or pawing at the mouth
• Excessive thirst
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Gas and belly discomfort

Dogs don’t experience flavor the way we do

Dogs have far fewer taste buds than people. They’re drawn to the smell of food rather than the heat. So a dog may eat something spicy without realizing it will make them uncomfortable.

Hidden toxic ingredients

Spicy dishes often include ingredients that are much more dangerous than the heat:

• Onions and garlic, fresh or powdered, which can damage red blood cells
• Salt, which can cause excessive thirst and, in large amounts, salt poisoning
• Fatty meats and oils, which can trigger pancreatitis
• Chocolate, in some mole sauces
• Xylitol, in some sauces and condiments

Our article on toxic foods every pet parent should know explains why these ingredients are dangerous.

Can dogs eat hot sauce?

No. Hot sauce contains capsaicin, salt and often garlic, onion and vinegar. Even a small lick may cause drooling or stomach upset.

Can dogs eat jalapeños and chili peppers?

No. Jalapeños, habaneros, cayenne and chili flakes are all irritating to dogs. Sweet bell peppers, on the other hand, are safe in small amounts because they don’t contain capsaicin.

What about spicy chips and snacks?

Spicy chips and snacks are high in salt and fat, and they’re often seasoned with garlic and onion powder. Keep them out of reach.

What to do if your dog ate spicy food

1. Remove the food and check what was in it.
2. Offer fresh water. Your dog may feel thirsty or have a burning mouth.
3. Watch for vomiting, diarrhea or signs of belly pain.
4. Call a vet if the food contained onion, garlic, chocolate or xylitol, if your dog ate a large amount, or if signs are severe or last more than a day.

Our articles on dog vomiting once vs. multiple times and when diarrhea in dogs is an emergency can help you decide when to worry.

Safer treats to share

Instead of spicy food, try:

• Plain cooked chicken or turkey, without skin or bones
• Carrots, green beans or cucumber
• Apple slices, without seeds or core
• Blueberries

Treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories.

How to keep spicy food away from dogs

• Don’t leave plates within reach at parties or game day gatherings
• Ask guests not to feed your dog
• Use a lidded trash can
• Give your dog a chew toy while you eat

Frequently asked questions

Can a little spicy food hurt my dog?

A small lick usually causes only mild upset, but check for toxic ingredients like garlic and onion.

Can spicy food cause long-term problems?

Repeated exposure can lead to ongoing stomach upset. It’s best to avoid it.

Food questions? Ask a vet

Talk to a licensed vet 24/7, even on holidays, by chat, voice call or video call. Your first month is free with code FREEMONTH, then US $9.99/month, at NYPTeleVet.com. One membership covers up to 6 pets, and you can cancel anytime.

Our vets can’t prescribe medication, but they’ll tell you what’s likely needed and when an in-person visit is the next step.

Sources

• Can Dogs Eat Spicy Food?, Hill’s Pet Nutrition
• Which Human Foods Can Dogs Eat and Which Are Dangerous?, American Kennel Club
• Do Dogs Have Taste Buds?, PetMD