Yes, dogs can eat sesame seeds in small quantities. In moderation, these seeds offer excellent nutritional benefits for dogs as they are rich in iron, calcium, manganese and vitamins A and B.
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 to eat in small amounts. These seeds should be given as an occasional treat. |
|---|---|
| Nutritional Value | Sesame seeds are rich in iron, calcium and necessary vitamins. They are also an excellent source of fiber. Therefore, they can help your dog’s digestive system perform better. |
| Potential Risks | Sesame seeds are tiny but can become a choking hazard, especially for smaller breeds. Some dogs might have an allergic reaction to sesame seeds, which can translate into symptoms, such as skin irritation, rashes, itching, and digestive issues. When eaten in excess, these seeds can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. In the long run, it can also cause unwanted weight gain. |
How Many Sesame Seeds Are Safe for Dogs?
A spoonful of sesame seeds as an occasional treat is perfectly safe for your dog. A sprinkle of sesame oil may also suffice if you want an alternative.
How to Feed Sesame Seeds to Dogs?
Sesame seeds in themselves are fine for dogs. The best way to incorporate them into your dog’s diet is to sprinkle a few seeds now and again on your dog’s kibble. This can provide your dogs with a new texture and add a bit of flavor as well. However, the major mistake most dog owners make is that they feed their dogs sesame seeds that come attached to other calorically dense food like burgers or bagels. While an occasional bagel bite is fine, this is not the best way to incorporate sesame seeds into your dog’s diet. Stick to sesame seeds by themselves and avoid feeding the seeds that come along with carbohydrates.
Signs Your Dog Ate Too Many Sesame Seeds
Whether by accident or through a lack of knowledge, a dog might end up eating too much of a food item. In the case of sesame seeds, there is no huge cause for alarm. However, your dog will exhibit some symptoms of gastrointestinal issues. These include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
If your dog chokes on sesame seeds or you suspect a gastrointestinal obstruction, it is best to contact your local veterinarian immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Sesame oil is safe for dogs and can occasionally be used as an alternative for sesame seeds. However, sesame oil has a relatively high fat content. Therefore, it is best to practice caution and not incorporate it into your dog’s diet.
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Dogs can safely eat bread with sesame seeds. However, you have to be extremely mindful of the portion you feed your dog. Bread has a high glycemic index and is a complex carbohydrate. Therefore, feeding too much of it to your dog can cause obesity and other health issues such as pancreatitis.
