Soy sauce is an important and tasty ingredient in many Asian cultural cuisines. But while soy sauce can add a delicious spark of umami to your stir fry or chicken teriyaki, can dogs have soy sauce, too?
No. Dogs should not eat soy sauce due to the high salt content, says Kathryn Dench, holistic veterinarian and Chief Scientific Officer at Paw Origins.
Learn more about why dogs should avoid soy sauce below and get vet-approved alternatives to add variety to your dog’s dinner.
Is Soy Sauce Bad for Dogs?
Yes, but not because of the soy content—after all, foods like tofu and edamame are typically okay in moderation. Instead, it’s because of soy sauce’s high sodium content. “Dogs are more sensitive to salt than humans,” says Patrick Wilson, a veterinarian with Well Pet Coach.
A medium-sized dog weighing 33 pounds should only have 200 milligrams (mg) of sodium daily. However, one tablespoon of soy sauce contains 879 mg of sodium. That’s over four times the safe amount for dogs. If your pup eats too much salt, it could have long-term consequences on their health.
What Happens When Dogs Have Too Much Sodium?
Dr. Wilson explains that dogs who eat too much salt are at risk of sodium ion poisoning (salt poisoning.)
Severe cases of salt poisoning can cause potentially fatal brain swelling if left untreated. So, if you suspect your pup has consumed too much soy sauce or any other sodium sources, watch them closely for symptoms and call your vet or the Pet Poison Helpline ASAP.
A dog experiencing sodium poisoning may display the following symptoms.
While there isn’t a single treatment for sodium poisoning, your vet will likely try to slowly lower your dog’s sodium levels through methods like IV fluids.
Rehydrating too quickly after severe cases of salt poisoning can actually cause a dog’s brain to swell more due to excessive fluid buildup. So, it’s crucial to consult a vet for guidance before rehydrating your dog at home.
How Much Soy Sauce Is Dangerous for Dogs?
While salt poisoning is serious and scary, not every dog may experience it after consuming small amounts of soy sauce.
“The toxicity threshold for sodium in dogs can vary significantly based on the dog’s size, breed, and overall health,” Dr. Dench explains.
For example, if a medium or large-sized dog snatches a bite-sized piece of chicken teriyaki off the floor, this small amount likely won’t cause them serious harm. But Dr. Dench says that for toy breeds or dogs with pre-existing conditions, like kidney disease or heart problems, even small amounts of soy sauce can pose a concern.
It’s better to err on the side of caution and contact your vet.
What Sauces or Food Toppers Are Safe For Dogs to Eat?
“If you’re looking to add flavor or variety to your dog’s meals, it’s safer and more beneficial to use dog-friendly alternatives,” Dr. Wilson says.
So, while soy sauce shouldn’t be in your pup-friendly pantry, the following options could add a healthy dash of flavor to your dog’s dinner.
- Pumpkin puree. Pumpkin contains a high fiber content, which could support your dog’s digestive system and combat issues like diarrhea and constipation. You can add one tablespoon to their dinner with your vet’s permission.
- Unsweetened apple sauce. Apples are safe for dogs in small quantities and contain vitamins like A and C, and nutrients like fiber. You can make a dog-safe apple sauce at home by stewing and mashing cored apples. Make sure it has no apple seeds or stems, and don’t add any sweeteners or seasonings.
- Low-sodium broth. Bone broth contains several beneficial nutrients, like collagen, minerals, proteins, amino acids, and more. You can make it at home with animal bones of your choice or buy a ready-made version. But if you’re going the store-bought route, choose a broth that doesn’t contain added salt or other seasonings.
- Gravy toppers. You can buy dog-friendly food toppers from the pet store or make your own dog-safe gravy by adding tapioca flour or corn starch to an unsalted bone broth. For an extra hearty version, you can add pureed meats, like plain chicken or beef.
