As much as we love our dogs, sometimes they can be real pests when it comes to food.
It seems like they’re always getting into something they’re not supposed to, whether it’s raiding the rubbish bin or stealing a snack off the counter.
So it’s no surprise that we sometimes wonder if they can share some of our favourite foods, like bagels.
The short answer to whether dogs can eat bagels is maybe. While there’s no need to worry if your dog takes a quick nibble of your bagel, you should avoid feeding them large pieces or letting them eat an entire bagel on their own. That’s because bagels are high in carbohydrates and calories, which can lead to weight gain and other health problems in dogs.
Why are bagels bad for dogs?
The main reason bagels are bad for dogs is because they’re very high in carbohydrates.
A standard bagel has about 75 grams of carbs, which is more than twice the amount that’s recommended for dogs.
Too many carbs can lead to weight gain and other health problems like diabetes and liver disease.
In addition to being high in carbs, bagels are also pretty high in calories. A single bagel has about 250 calories, which is a lot for a small dog.
Eating too many calories can again lead to weight gain and other health problems.
Finally, bagels often contain additives like salt, sugar, and fat that can be harmful to dogs.
For example, salt can cause dehydration and gastrointestinal distress in dogs.
Sugar can lead to weight gain and tooth decay. And fats can cause pancreatitis, a potentially life-threatening condition.
Some bagels also contain ingredients such as raisins which, in their own right, are harmful to dogs and should not be fed.
Bagel toppings such as cream cheese are also high in fat and calories so, in reality a bagel is not a great option for a dog.
How much bagel can a dog eat safely?
If you want to share your bagel with your dog, it’s best to give them just a small piece.
A good rule of thumb is to give them no more than 10% of their daily calorie intake in the form of treats.
So, if your dog typically eats about 1000 calories a day, they can have 100 calories worth of bagel, or about one small piece.
It’s also important to keep an eye on how your dog is reacting to the bagel.
Some dogs may be able to eat a small piece without any problems, while others may start to show signs of gastrointestinal distress, such as vomiting or diarrhea.
If you notice your dog starting to have any problems after eating a bagel, it’s best to stop feeding them and contact your veterinarian.
Are there any healthier alternatives to bagels for dogs?
If you’re looking for a healthier snack for your dog, there are plenty of options available.
Many pet shops sell dog-friendly snacks that are low in calories and carbs that contain a variety of dog safe and healthy ingredients.
You could also give your dog a small piece of cooked chicken, turkey or fish, all of which are good sources of protein.
What health risks do bagels pose to dogs?
While a small piece of bagel is unlikely to cause any serious health problems for your dog, there is always the risk of some reaction to this type of food.
Risks include:
Allergic reactions – Bagels are a highly processed food, and as such, they include a long list of additives that can harm your dog.
If your dog’s system is unable to handle the fillers present in bagels, giving him his first bagel might produce an allergic reaction.
Anaemia – Garlic or onion bagels are extremely harmful to dogs.
The Allium family includes onions and garlic, which include a chemical known as N-propyl disulfide that damages your dog’s red blood cells, resulting in anemia.
Raisin bread is also hazardous since grapes can induce kidney failure in dogs.
Digestive issues – White flour is one of the key components in bagels.
Your dog’s digestive system has difficulties digesting starches, gluten, and carbohydrates.
Dogs don’t produce large amounts of amylase, the digestive enzyme that aids in starch digestion.
Feeding your dog bread products might result in bloating, vomiting, constipation, or diarrhea.
Tiredness – Bagels may induce tiredness and sluggishness in your dog.
Bagels are high in carbohydrates, which cause blood sugar imbalances and lower your dog’s energy levels.
Weight gain – Bagels are not a good treat for your pet because they’re high in carbohydrates.
Feeding your dog too much bread can cause them to pack on a lot of weight in a short period of time, putting stress on their body and immune system.
Obesity can lead to additional health issues for dogs, including heart disease and diabetes.
Final Words
Ultimately, it’s up to you whether you want to share your bagel with your dog.
If you do decide to give them a bite, just be sure to do so in moderation.
Remember that bagels are not suitable for dogs and, if you give your dog too much then you could make him unwell.
And, as always, if you have any concerns about your dog’s health, be sure to contact your veterinarian.
