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Yes, pretzels are safe for your dogs to munch on if they are unsalted and plain. A few bites of plain pretzels aren’t going to harm your pet dog. However, if the pretzels are salted, keeping them away from your doggy is best. So, before sharing a bite with your furry friend, ensure it contains no toxic ingredients.

Pretzels
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safe

Safe: This food is generally considered safe by the veterinary community. Dogs can eat this food sometimes or in small amounts but contains little to no nutritional value.

Food Safety Safe if plain and unsalted
Nutritional Value None
Potential Risks Dehydration, digestive troubles
Every dog is different. For specific feeding guidelines, including quantities and beneficial foods that are best for your dog, please consult your vet.

How Many Pretzels are Safe for Dogs?

Just like us, dogs also love a crispy, crunchy snack, and what’s a better snack than delicious hard pretzels? We know how tough it is to say no to your adorable little monster of a pet, but it is important to act smart. So, if you are trying to find the answer to “can dogs eat pretzels” before letting their greedy paws on the food, good on you, friend!

That said, a simple yes isn’t the answer. You must also figure out how much is safe. Well, we are here to help.

Sharing one pretzel in a day should not harm your small dog. If they eat more than that, you might notice an upset stomach. The salt tolerance in dogs varies according to their size. So, if you have a big dog, you might get away with 2 pieces of hard pretzels. However, one should be enough for a small dog.

Remember, your dog is getting salt from a bunch of other stuff they are eating too. So always consider your doggy’s daily salt intake before throwing them a salty snack for being a good dog.

TIP: Place their water bowl in an accessible area when you feed your dog pretzels. Make sure to keep refilling it so your doggy can quench their thirst.

What Happens if a Dog Eats Too Many Pretzels?

Your doggy will probably get dehydrated after consuming a few pretzels since they are a salty snack. However, if one fine day you find your dog nose-deep in packaged salted pretzels and they have eaten a large quantity, be prepared to handle that upset stomach. (Also, maybe consider putting your salted pretzels on a higher shelf).

Your dog will be quite thirsty after consumption and may also need multiple pee breaks because of increased urination.

Lastly, your dogs will display signs of sodium poisoning. Hence, they may throw up or experience diarrhea. They also might seem a little wobbly on their feet. If the pretzels your dog gobbled up were of a special variety, like chocolate covered, immediately take your dog to the vet.

Frequently Answered Questions

  • If pretzel sticks are salty, it is best not to offer your dog pretzel sticks. However, a few bites of an unsalted, plain pretzel stick shouldn’t hurt your dog.

  • Yes, soft pretzels are safe for your dog but only in moderation. So, depending on the size, make sure the size is small, and it is just a few bites occasionally since pretzels do not contain any nutritional value for your pet.

  • A piece of crunchy pretzel should be fine for your dog. However, excessive or regular salt intake can cause sodium poisoning.

About the Writer
Dan Greco , Dog Dad

Having been a dog dad for 5 years, I know how hard it is to make sure your dog gets the right nutrients and stays away from hazardous foods. With the help of a veterinarian who specializes in nutrition, I created this blog to help dog owners quickly access food information they need.

photo of vet holding a pup
About the Contributor
Dr. Hillary Wolfe , Veterinarian & Certified Food Therapist

Dr. Wolfe holds a doctorate in veterinary medicine from Kansas State University and holds nutrition certifications from the NAVC and CIVT. Her business, Tula Veterinary Nutrition, hosts online courses that teach owners how to cook for their pet for optimal health and longevity. Follow her on Instagram at @doctorwolfe.dvm for dog nutrition tips, recipes and insights.