Can dogs safely eat foods made for humans, such as orange chicken? is a frequently asked question.
A common dish in Chinese cuisine is orange chicken. Usually, it’s created with fried, battered chicken pieces that are covered in a tangy, sweet sauce with an orange taste. Some restaurants serve it with garlic fried rice, while others serve it only with a portion of salad. Humans find it delicious, but it’s essential to consider if it’s suitable for dogs.
What Ingredients are used in Orange Chicken?
When considering feeding your dog human food, always check the ingredients first. Orange chicken typically includes:
- Skinless dark meat chicken
- Salt
- Wheat flour
- Cornstarch
- Eggs
- Black pepper
- Sugar
- Oil
- Sesame oil
- Vinegar
- Brown sugar
Ingredient used to make Tangy Sauce are:
- Citrus juice or orange juice
- Ginger
- Garlic
- Chili flakes
- Soy sauce
- Lemon juice
See also: CAN DOGS EAT RAW CHICKEN?
Why Orange Chicken is Not Safe for Dogs?
Dogs can benefit from chicken as a source of protein. However, the preparation of orange chicken makes it unsuitable and potentially harmful for them.
1. High Sugar Content: Due to its high sugar content, orange chicken’s sweet sauce is frequently harmful to dogs. Diabetes, obesity, and other health issues may occur from consuming huge quantities of sugar.
2. Spices and Additives: Dogs can experience digestive problems and more severe health issues from consuming spices and additives like garlic and onion that are present in sauces and batters.
3. Fried Food: The chicken, fried and high in fat, can cause pancreatitis in dogs, a painful and serious condition.
Pancreatitis is a serious risk to one’s life and should not be treated lightly. The following symptoms occur:
| SYMPTOMS |
|---|
| Loss of appetite |
| Fever |
| Lethargy |
| Muscle Weakness |
| Abdominal Pain |
| Regular Vomiting |
| Diarrhea |
4. Sodium Levels: Dogs can be at risk of dehydration and salt poisoning from consuming excessive sodium found in soy sauce, which is a common ingredient in orange chicken.
See also: CAN DOGS EAT BISCOFF COOKIES?
Potential Health Risks
Your dog may develop several health problems from eating orange chicken. These issues include:
1. Gastrointestinal Issues: Vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach upset due to the spices, high fat, and sugars.
2. Pancreatitis: High-fat foods cause inflammation in the pancreas, resulting in severe pain and illness.
3. Obesity and Diabetes: Consuming high amounts of sugar can lead to weight gain and insulin resistance.
4. Toxicity: Toxic ingredients such as garlic and onion can harm and damage the red blood cells of dogs.
See also: CAN DOGS HAVE MISO SOUP?
Healthy Alternatives
Consider these safer alternatives:
- Plain Chicken: Boiled or grilled without any seasoning.
- Carrots: An ideal snack, carrots are crunchy and low in calories.
- Apple Slices: Be sure to remove the seeds and core.
FAQ’s
Can dogs eat any kind of Chinese food?
Dogs should avoid most Chinese food due to its high levels of sodium, spices, and unhealthy fats. It’s best for them to eat plain, unseasoned foods instead.
Can dogs eat oranges?
Dogs can eat oranges in a limited quantity. Oranges contain less citric acid compared to lemons. They are high in vitamin C but should be given in moderation due to their sugar content.
What should I do if my dog eats orange chicken?
Monitor your dog for any signs of distress, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy. If you notice these symptoms, contact your vet.
Is chicken okay for dogs?
Yes, chicken is a really good source of protein for dogs. Additionally, boiled chicken can be a really good one-time meal for your dog; however, they cannot have any sweetener or chili sauce along with it.
Are any ingredients in orange chicken toxic to dogs?
Yes, ingredients like garlic, onions, and high sodium levels are toxic to dogs.
Final Words
So, dogs should not eat orange chicken because it is not safe for them due to the ingredients used in it. It can lead to serious health issues. Therefore, if you have been giving human food to the dog regularly, please stop and instead feed them the diet their immune system is designed for.
Consult your vet for advice on the best diet for your furry friend. A proper and balanced diet is essential for your dog’s happy and healthy life.
Read Also: Quail Eggs in Your Dog’s Diet
