Can dogs eat pink salt? First, let’s explore the difference between table salt and pink salt, also known as pink Himalayan salt. Both salts contain sodium chloride, but the similarities end there because pink salt has 84 minerals and elements that are beneficial for health.
Dogs need a healthy amount of salt in their diet, typically between 0.25g to 1.5g per 100g of food. It helps cell function, including acid-base balance, nerve signal transmission, and fluid balance. In addition, salt or sodium chloride helps with digestion by producing hydrochloric acid in the stomach.
Can Dogs Eat Pink Salt?
So, can dogs eat pink salt? Yes, but in small doses.
Dangers of Feeding Your Dog Too Much Salt
The main sign that your dog has too much in their diet is excessively drinking water. Also, the following symptoms can occur.
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Dehydration
Another problem that can happen if your dog eats too much salt is hypernatremia which is salt poisoning. This life-threatening problem requires immediate veterinarian care. Symptoms of salt poisoning in dogs include stiffness, convulsing, and lethargy.
Salty Foods to Avoid Giving Your Dog
Foods that are too high in salt include the following:
- Cheese
- All types of chips
- Sausages
- Burgers
- Process meat such as deli or sandwich meat
Chances are you have already tossed a bite or two of these products to your dog and they loved it! It’s best to stay away from these salty treats and focus more on how to implement pink salt into your dog’s diet healthily.
Ways to Add Pink Salt to Your Dogs Diet
Can dogs eat pink salt? Yes, but you should consult with a veterinarian before adding it to your dog’s diet. Every dog is unique and has health issues that salt might make worse. Getting a professional opinion is highly recommended. However, once you have the veterinarian’s approval, try the tips to add pink salt to your dog’s diet below.
- Add a small dose of pink salt to your dog’s kibble and add water to help it dissolve.
- Add a small dose of pink salt into DIY homemade dog treats.
- Take a small dose of pink salt and add it to an ice cube tray to create salty ice cubes for your dog to eat.
If you aren’t sure how much a small dose is for your specific dog, consult with a veterinarian.
The Truth About Himalayan Pink Salt for Your Dog
As mentioned earlier, pink salt comes from unpolluted sources and contains minerals that standard table salt doesn’t contain. These minerals are not found in commercial dog foods either. Adding few sprinkles of pink Himalayan salt to your dog’s diet helps reduce high blood pressure, improves digestion, strengthens bones, improves blood circulation, restores pH balance, slows the aging process, and prevents water retention.
Bottom Line
Dogs love salt just as much as humans. Who can eat a pretzel at the mall without the yummy salt, right? Well, your dog feels the same way and will love to have salt on everything they eat. But don’t give in to their soulful eyes and cute little begging techniques.
You are in control and need to limit salt to prevent side effects that can lead to salt poisoning. Using small amounts of salt is recommended. Since dogs come in all sizes, it’s best to find out the perfect dosage for your specific dog. Animal nutritionists and veterinarians are extremely helpful in pinpointing the right serving size.
If your dog has symptoms of dehydration or salt poisoning after consuming salt, rush to the animal hospital or veterinarian immediately.
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