Imagine sitting down to enjoy a plate of tangy, flavorful orange chicken when your dog eagerly stares, hoping for a bite. But can dogs eat orange chicken? While it might be tempting to share, this dish can harm your furry friend.
In this article, we’ll discuss Orange Chicken and whether dogs eat orange chicken safely. We’ll suggest some alternatives to Orange Chicken.
What is Orange Chicken?
Orange chicken is a popular American Chinese cuisine that’s taken the US by storm. It’s a mouthwatering combo of crispy fried chicken pieces coated in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. The dish typically uses dark meat chicken, which is then battered, fried to perfection, and tossed in a flavorful sauce made with orange juice, soy sauce, and other tasty ingredients.
While it might be a treat for us humans, the same can’t be said for our four-legged friends. The ingredients used in orange chicken can pose serious risks to your dog’s health. Let’s break it down and see why this poultry dish is not the best choice for your pup.
Can Dogs Eat Orange Chicken?
Dogs should not eat orange chicken. The dish contains harmful ingredients like garlic, onions, and too much sugar, which can cause serious health issues. Fried chicken and high-fat sauces are also dangerous for their digestion.
While a small bite might not seem harmful, it’s best to avoid giving orange chicken to your dog. The spices, citrus, and salt can upset their stomach and lead to long-term problems like obesity or pancreatitis. Stick to safer treats made for dogs instead.
Also Read: Can Dogs Eat Farro?
What’s in That Orange Chicken?
To understand why orange chicken is not great for dogs, we look at what goes into making this delicious dish. Here is the main ingredients:
The Chicken Part
- Skinless dark meat chicken
- Salt
- Wheat flour
- Cornstarch
- Eggs
- Black pepper
- Sugar
- Oil
- Sesame oil
- Vinegar
- Brown sugar
The Tangy Sauce
- Citrus juice or orange juice
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Chili flakes
- Soy sauce
- Lemon juice
Can Fido Have a Taste of Orange Chicken?
The short answer? Nope, not really.
Orange chicken isn’t safe for dogs to eat, and it’s best to keep it off their menu entirely. While a tiny nibble probably won’t send your pup to the emergency vet, it’s not worth the risk.
The crispy coating, fried chicken pieces, and tangy orange sauce might be heaven for us, but they’re a recipe for disaster for our Dogs. The high-fat content, spices, and potentially toxic ingredients can wreak havoc on your dog’s digestive system and overall health.
Also Read: Can Dogs Eat Scooby Snacks?
Why Orange Chicken is a No-Go for Dogs
The fried chicken pieces are loaded with unhealthy fats that can lead to pancreatitis in dogs. That’s a painful inflammation of the pancreas that can be serious and even life-threatening.
The sweet sauce is another culprit. It’s packed with sugar, which can contribute to obesity, dental problems, and even diabetes in dogs. The citrus fruit used in the sauce can upset your dog’s stomach and cause digestive issues.
The sauce often contains garlic and onions, which are toxic to dogs and can cause anemia.
Toxic Ingredients in Orange Chicken
Here are some of the most dangerous ingredients in orange chicken:
- Garlic and onions: These can damage your dog’s red blood cells and lead to anemia.
- Soy sauce: High in sodium, it can cause salt poisoning in dogs.
- Citrus: The acidity can upset your dog’s stomach and cause digestive issues.
- Sugar: Too much can lead to obesity, dental problems, and diabetes.
- Spices: Many spices used in orange chicken can irritate your dog’s digestive system.
Signs Your Dog Might Have Food Poisoning
If your dog eat some orange chicken, keep an eye out for these signs of food poisoning:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain
- Excessive drooling
- Rapid breathing
If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to call the vet ASAP!
Why Cooked Bones are a Big No-No?
Here’s another reason to keep that orange chicken away from your dog: cooked bones. If there are any bones in the chicken, they can be a serious choking hazard. Cooked bones can splinter and cause injuries to your dog’s mouth, throat, or digestive tract.
Unlike raw bones, which can be softer and more flexible, cooked bones become brittle and can break into sharp pieces. These sharp fragments can cause internal injuries or blockages in your dog’s digestive system.
Helping Your Dog Pass Bones Safely
If your dog has somehow managed to eat some cooked bones, don’t panic. Here are a few things you can do:
- Feed your dog some soft, high-fiber food like canned pumpkin or cooked sweet potato to help move things along.
- Offer plenty of fresh water to keep them hydrated.
- Take your dog for regular walks to encourage bowel movements.
- Monitor their poop for any signs of blood or bone fragments.
Also Read: Can Dogs Eat Tajin?
Why High Sodium Salt is Bad for Dogs
The high salt level in orange chicken is another big concern for dog health. While dogs do need some sodium in their diet, too much can be harmful. Excessive salt intake can lead to:
- Dehydration
- Increased thirst and urination
- Sodium ion poisoning
- Kidney problems
- High blood pressure
Dogs should only consume about 0.25-1.5 grams of salt per 100 grams of food. Orange chicken often contains way more than that, making it a risky choice for your furry friend.
Soy Sauce and Citrus
The soy sauce and citric acid in orange chicken can be a troublesome duo for your dog’s digestive system. Soy sauce is extremely high in sodium. Just one tablespoon of soy sauce can contain over 1,000 mg of sodium.
As for citric acid, while it’s not toxic in small amounts, it can cause stomach upset in some dogs. The acidity can irritate their digestive tract, leading to vomiting or diarrhea. Plus, some dogs may have a citrus allergy, making oranges and lemons a no-go.
Garlic and Onions: Silent Dangers in Your Dog’s Diet
Garlic and onions might make orange chicken taste amazing, but they’re bad for dogs. These ingredients belong to the Allium family which is toxic to dogs and cats. Even small amounts can cause damage to your pet’s red blood cells, potentially leading to anemia.
Symptoms of garlic or onion poisoning in dogs include:
- Weakness
- Lethargy
- Pale gums
- Rapid breathing
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
Excessive Sugar
The sweet sauce in orange chicken is not just tasty. It is loaded with sugar. Too much sugar can lead to some serious health issues:
- Obesity
- Dental problems
- Diabetes
- Hyperactivity followed by lethargy
- Upset stomach
Safe Alternatives to Orange Chicken
Just because orange chicken is off the menu doesn’t mean your pup can’t enjoy some tasty treats. Here are some dog-safe treats that can satisfy their cravings:
- Plain, cooked chicken breast (no seasoning)
- Carrots (great for teething puppies!)
- Green beans
- Apple slices (without seeds)
- Pumpkin puree
- Plain, low-fat yogurt
Remember, treats should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. Always introduce new foods slowly and in small amounts to avoid upsetting their stomach.
My Dog Ate Orange Chicken – What Now?
If your dog ate some orange chicken while you weren’t looking, don’t panic. Here’s what you should do:
- Remove any remaining orange chicken from your dog’s reach.
- Try to figure out how much they ate.
- Watch for any signs of distress or illness.
- Call your vet and explain the situation.
- Follow your vet’s advice – they might want you to bring your dog in for a check-up.
Is It OK To Give Dogs Canned Chicken?
While orange chicken is a no-go, you might be wondering about canned chicken as a treat for your dog. The good news is that plain, unseasoned canned chicken can be okay for dogs in moderation. Here’s what you need to know:
- Choose low-sodium or no-salt-added varieties.
- Clean the chicken to remove any excess sodium.
- Use it as an occasional treat, not a meal replacement.
- Always introduce new foods slowly to avoid upsetting your dog’s stomach.
Remember, while canned chicken can be a nice treat, it shouldn’t make up a large part of your dog’s diet. A balanced, dog-specific diet is still the best way to keep your furry friend healthy and happy.
The Importance of a Diet Specifically Formulated for Dogs
It might be tempting to share your food with your four-legged friend, but dogs really do need their own specially formulated diet. Here’s why:
- Balanced nutrition: Dog food is designed to provide all the nutrients your pup needs in the right proportions.
- Digestibility: Dog food is easier for canine digestive systems to process.
- Calorie control: It’s easier to manage your dog’s weight with food made specifically for them.
- Dental health: Many dog foods are designed to help clean teeth and promote oral health.
- Safety: Dog food doesn’t contain ingredients that might be harmful to dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Dogs Eat Oranges?
Yes, dogs can eat oranges in small amounts. Oranges are safe and provide vitamin C, but too much can upset their stomach due to the acidity. Always give them in moderation and avoid the seeds and peel.
Is Chicken Okay for Dogs?
Yes, plain cooked chicken without seasoning is great for dogs. It’s a good source of protein. Just avoid giving them fried or heavily seasoned chicken, as these can cause health problems.
Which Foods Are Toxic to Dogs?
Foods like chocolate, garlic, onions, grapes, and raisins are toxic to dogs. They can cause serious health issues, including organ failure or anemia.
What Are 3 Foods Bad for Dogs?
- Chocolate – Can cause heart problems and seizures.
- Grapes/Raisins – Can lead to kidney failure.
- Onions/Garlic – Can damage red blood cells and cause anemia.
Conclusion
Orange chicken might be a delicious treat for us, but it is not safe for dogs. The fried chicken, sugary sauce, and harmful ingredients like garlic, onions, and soy sauce can cause serious health issues for your furry friend, such as digestive problems, anemia, and obesity.
Instead of sharing your meal, opt for dog-safe alternatives like plain cooked chicken or veggies. Always prioritize a balanced diet for dogs to keep them healthy and happy. If your dog accidentally eats orange chicken, contact your vet for advice.