Can Dogs Eat Tamales? The Risks and Safe Ingredients

If you're about to enjoy a delicious tamale dinner, you might be tempted to share some of this Latin American treat with your dog. While there are some safe ingredients in tamales that dogs can eat, you should be careful about what you share with your pet. In general, dogs can eat small amounts of plain tamale filling, such as shredded chicken, beef, or pork, as long as it's in moderation. However, you should never give your dog tamale dough, corn husks, or spicy sauces, as these can all be dangerous for your dog's health.

This article will cover the most recent veterinary advice on which tamale ingredients are safe for dogs and which ones are dangerous or even poisonous. By learning about the nutritional benefits and risks, you'll be able to make the best choices about when to give your dog a special treat with the delicious fillings and when to avoid giving them something that could lead to digestive upset or other health problems.

Toxic Ingredients in Tamales for Dogs

While the meaty fillings of tamales like pulled pork or chicken may sound like a great treat for your dog, many of the ingredients that go into tamales can be toxic or harmful to dogs. According to The KONG Company, the chiles used to simmer the meat often contain capsaicin, a compound that can cause burning sensations and digestive distress in dogs.

Onions and garlic, which are often used in the fillings and sauces of tamales, are both toxic to dogs and can cause hemolytic anemia, a condition where the dog's red blood cells are destroyed. Even small amounts of onion or garlic powder can be toxic, according to veterinarians.

While the masa dough that makes up the bulk of the tamale may seem safe, it often contains other ingredients like spices, lard, and high levels of salt that can upset a dog's stomach and even lead to pancreatitis. And while corn itself is safe for dogs, the corn husks that tamales are wrapped in can be a choking hazard and even cause intestinal blockages if swallowed.

Even canned tamales should be avoided, as they are typically loaded with salt, sugar, fat, and preservatives that are not only not good for dogs, but can also contribute to other health issues. With so many potential problems, it's best to avoid giving your dog any part of a tamale to prevent poisoning or other digestive issues.

Corn Husks and Masa Dough

In addition to the ingredients in the tamale filling, the corn husks used to wrap tamales can be dangerous for dogs. According to Rover.com, the husks are tough and fibrous and can get stuck in a dog's throat, leading to choking. If a dog swallows the husks, they can cause intestinal blockages or obstructions, which can result in vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, lethargy, abdominal pain, and loss of appetite.

While partial obstructions may resolve on their own, Dogs Naturally Magazine explains that complete blockages typically require surgery to remove the blockage and prevent life-threatening complications. The masa harina flour used to make the tamale dough is also a concern because it's high in carbohydrates and calories, which can lead to weight gain, diabetes, and other health problems in dogs if it's consumed in large amounts, according to Canvas Personalized.

While the flour isn't toxic, it doesn't offer the nutrients dogs need, so it's best to avoid giving it to your dog. By learning about the potential risks of both the corn husks and masa used to make tamales, dog owners can better understand how to protect their pet's health and safety.

First Aid and Veterinary Treatment for Tamale Ingestion

If a dog has eaten a tamale or part of a tamale, it is important to keep a close eye on them for any signs of distress or sickness. According to JustAnswer, these signs can include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, abdominal pain or swelling, and constipation.

If any of these symptoms arise, JustAnswer suggests getting in touch with a vet immediately, as the dog may need to be seen to address potential issues like intestinal blockages or toxicity. This could involve inducing vomiting, providing supportive treatment, or running tests or surgery to remove any blockages.

Make sure to give the vet as much information as possible about the dog's situation, as this will help them determine the best way to proceed. As Vets Now explains, catching these issues early is often the best way to ensure that they can be treated.

Healthy Human Food Alternatives for Dogs

Although tamales are not safe for dogs, there are many human foods that can be given to dogs as an occasional treat or snack. The American Kennel Club lists examples such as cooked lean meats, including chicken and turkey, plain white rice, and fresh fruits and vegetables, such as carrots, green beans, and apples. Healthline also notes that peanut butter can be a good option in small amounts.

That said, it's important to steer clear of foods that are high in fat, salt, sugar, or spices, as well as any foods that contain toxic ingredients like onions, garlic, or chocolate. Sploot Vets also warns that new human foods should be introduced slowly and in small amounts and that dogs should be monitored for any signs of an adverse reaction.

Working with a vet can help ensure that any human food treats are safe and suitable for a dog's specific dietary and health needs. By knowing which human foods can be given to dogs as an alternative, pet parents can give their dogs tasty and nutritious snacks without the dangers that come with giving them table scraps.

Conclusion: Keep Your Dog Safe and Healthy

Although it can be tempting to share human food like tamales with your dog, it’s important to make sure you’re keeping your pet’s safety and health in mind. There are several ingredients in tamales that can be dangerous and even poisonous to dogs, leading to problems like intestinal blockages, pancreatitis, and other health issues.

By being aware of the risks and making sure to avoid feeding dogs tamales or their ingredients, you can save yourself the stress and expense of dealing with a sick pet. Instead, focus on feeding your dog a healthy, well-balanced diet that’s designed to meet their nutritional needs, and feel free to give them healthy human food snacks in moderation.

And if you’re ever in doubt, check with your vet to make sure that any human food or treats you want to give your dog are safe and suitable based on their specific dietary needs and health.