Hot Pockets are convenient snacks that come in a variety of flavors. While humans can enjoy eating all the different kinds of Hot Pocket recipes, none of the recipes are recommended for dogs to eat. It’s unlikely for dogs to get sick after eating a small piece of a Hot Pocket, but Hot Pockets don’t really have any nutritional value for dogs, and they may also contain unhealthy ingredients. So, it’s best to skip feeding your dog these snacks and opt for more nutritious and healthier options.
Can Dogs Eat Hot Pockets?
Eating Hot Pockets isn’t fatal to dogs, but many Hot Pocket recipes are generally unhealthy for dogs. First, they’re high in cholesterol and sodium and contain saturated fats, which can all potentially increase the risk of developing high blood pressure if consumed regularly.
The fillings can also contain food additives and added sugars, and the overall product is classified as being highly processed. Some recipes also contain ingredients that are harmful or toxic to dogs, such as onion powder and garlic powder.
What Should I Do If My Dog Eats a Hot Pocket?
Dog owners usually don’t have to worry too much if their dog sneaks a bite of a Hot Pocket. Your dog may experience an upset stomach from ingredients that may be more difficult to digest. Dogs with lactose intolerance or lactose allergies may suffer more from eating a Hot Pocket because of the quantity of cheese and other dairy products they contain.
If your dog has eaten a piece of a Hot Pocket, keep an eye out for signs of an upset stomach, like vomiting or diarrhea. If your dog has a chronic health issue or has consumed a large portion of a Hot Pocket, it’s best to play it safe and contact your veterinarian. Make sure to contact your veterinarian if your dog’s upset stomach persists for more than 48 hours. Your veterinarian can thoroughly assess the situation and determine the best course of action for your dog.
What Are Healthier Alternatives to Hot Pockets?
It’s understandable that your dog will give you puppy eyes whenever you eat a Hot Pocket. After all, these foods often contain ingredients that dogs love to eat, including meat and cheese. However, since Hot Pockets are not healthy for dogs to eat, it’s much better to look for more nutritious alternatives.
One way of going about this is feeding your dog natural whole foods that are commonly found in Hot Pockets. Your dog can safely enjoy plain unseasoned meats and eat a small piece of cheese.
You can also find dog treats that have a soft inner filling and crunchy shell. There’s a much lower chance of your dog getting sick from eating these types of treats since they’re made with ingredients that are non-toxic and safe for dogs to eat.
Summary
It’s best to avoid feeding your dog Hot Pockets. They may not experience any health complications after eating one, but continuing to feed them Hot Pockets regularly can put them at risk of developing chronic health issues like heart disease and obesity. Feeding your dog natural whole foods is a much healthier and safer choice. So, the next time you’re eating a Hot Pocket, make sure to have a dog treat or healthier alternative on hand so that you and your dog can enjoy a safe moment of snacking together.
Featured Image Credit: MSPhotographic, Shutterstock
