Can dogs eat fries and nuggets?

We all know that French fries and nuggets are two of the most popular snacks out there, but can our canine friends enjoy them too? 

Can you treat your pup to them and is it safe for them to eat fries and nuggets?

Read on to find out.

What’s in fries and nuggets?

Fries are usually made from potatoes, which are high in carbohydrates, but low in protein.

The same goes for nuggets—they’re usually made from low quality chicken or mechanically recovered meats and other white meats, so they’re often low in protein. 

Both are also high in fat, due to the oil used to fry them. So it’s best to avoid giving your pup too many of these fatty treats.

Why are fries and nuggets bad for dogs?

Fried foods like French fries and chicken nuggets should also be avoided because they contain trans-fatty acids (TFAs). 

TFAs are linked to an increased risk of cancer in humans and animals alike,  plus, they’re incredibly difficult for the body to break down or digest properly. 

All these factors combine to make fried foods an unhealthy choice for your pup.

High in salt content

One of the main reasons why you should avoid giving your pup too many fries or nuggets is because they both contain high levels of salt. 

While a little bit of salt here and there won’t hurt your dog, consuming too much salt can cause dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and even kidney damage. 

So when it comes to salty snacks, moderation is key.

High fat content

Another reason why fries and nuggets aren’t great for your pup is due to their fat content.

Fries are usually deep-fried in oil, which means they contain more fat than if they were simply boiled or baked. 

Similarly, nuggets also contain a high amount of fat since they are usually deep fried as well. 

Consuming too much fat can lead to weight gain and pancreatitis in dogs, so again—moderation is key.

High calorie content

Finally, both fries and nuggets have a very high calorie count per serving size. 

This means that if you give your pup too many fries or nuggets in one sitting, they could end up consuming more calories than they need on a daily basis, leading to weight gain over time. 

Furthermore, if you feed your dog too many calories throughout the day (from any type of food source), their body may start storing those extra calories as fat instead of burning them off through exercise or activity—which is why it’s important to watch how many treats you give them per day.

How much is too much?

While fries and nuggets won’t hurt your dog if given sparingly, they should not be fed as part of a regular diet due to their high fat content. 

If you do decide to feed your pooch some fries or nuggets every once in a while as a special treat, make sure that it’s only a small portion with no added salt or seasonings (which could be harmful). 

Also keep an eye on them while they eat; although these treats may taste delicious, they can still pose a choking hazard if not consumed carefully.

Healthier alternatives

If you’re looking for something safer and healthier than fries and nuggets for your dog, there are plenty of options out there.

Many pet stores sell store-bought treats specifically formulated for dogs (just make sure you read the labels before buying).

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even make homemade treats like frozen banana bites or sweet potato chews. 

Not only will these more nutritious options keep your pup happy and healthy, but you’ll have peace of mind knowing exactly what’s going into their treat.