Skip to content

No, Takis are not safe for dog consumption. You must keep the crispy and spicy snack away from your pet dog because it can be very harmful to them. Excessive consumption can lead to poisoning and anemia.

caution icon
caution

Caution: This food is generally considered risky by the veterinary community. Dogs should not eat this food and should be monitored for adverse effects.

Food Safety Best to avoid and be cautious if your dog eats it. 
Nutritional Issue High sodium content, high spice content, toxic spices
Potential Risks Sodium-ion poisoning, anemia
Symptoms Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy,
Every dog is different. For specific feeding guidelines, including quantities and beneficial foods that are best for your dog, please consult your vet.

Takis are a corn-based snack that is seasoned with garlic, onion, excess amounts of salt and fried in vegetable oil. These ingredients are both unsafe and even toxic in larger amounts to your pup. On the Scoville scale they are anywhere between 8,000 – 9,000. There are different varieties of Takis such as Fuego (the most intense variety), Nacho and Guacamole to name a few. All of them are not suitable for dog consumption. Their fiery heat will disrupt your pup’s digestive tract and lead to stomach pain, gas and diarrhea. It can even lead to vomiting and dehydration when eaten in excess.

How Many Takis Are Bad for Dogs?

Are you wondering if you can share some Takis with your loyal sidekick? Can dogs eat Takis and not get sick?

Well, Takis are very high in calories and will exceed your dog’s daily calorie requirements with just a few bites. Hence, any amount of Takis is bad for your dog.

The spiciness of Takis are likely to deter your pet from consuming too many in the first place as it will make their mouth very dry and leave their mouth and throat in pain.

TIP: It would be cruel to offer your dog something you know they can’t digest. So be kind to your animal friend and ensure that Takis are nowhere in sight when you are not around.

What to Do If Your Dog Is Sick from Takis?

Of course, your dog may accidentally eat a few off the floor or dig their nose into a bag accidentally. If you notice signs of poisoning we recommend giving them water immediately and taking them to a veterinarian since certain ingredients, like onion powder, could be toxic for your pup. If they have consumed an excess amount of Takis they are at risk of sodium and garlic poisoning and need treatment right away. Excess sodium isn’t healthy for humans, but it is much more dangerous for our furry friends. Within a few hours of consumption it can lead to vomiting, weakness and even seizures if left untreated.

What Makes Takis Unsafe?

The ingredients in Takis are not safe for dogs at all. Takis are made of a ton of artificial flavorings and toxic spices like garlic and onions. They also contain high levels of sodium, another reason these spicy treats are considered a no-no for your innocent pet.

Some varieties of Takis also have lime, which is very harmful to dogs.

Takis Alternatives for Your Pup

There are so many great snacks to give your dog that you might already have lying around in your home aside from chips. A few slices of apples, or a handful of baby carrots can safely be given to your dog as a crunchy alternative and they will be healthier and happier for it. Remember, dogs do not need much variety in their diet and should go without any human grade processed snacks.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The different varieties of Takis are all unsafe for your dog. They contain spices that are toxic and pose a threat to your pet’s health.

  • Spicy food isn’t really a great choice of nutrition for dogs. They have sensitive stomachs, and their digestive system cannot process spicy food efficiently.

  • If your dog appears sick and is displaying symptoms of poisoning, take them to the vet immediately and provide details regarding the Takis variety your dog ate.

About the Writer
Dan Greco , Dog Dad

Having been a dog dad for 5 years, I know how hard it is to make sure your dog gets the right nutrients and stays away from hazardous foods. With the help of a veterinarian who specializes in nutrition, I created this blog to help dog owners quickly access food information they need.

photo of vet holding a pup
About the Contributor
Dr. Hillary Wolfe , Veterinarian & Certified Food Therapist

Dr. Wolfe holds a doctorate in veterinary medicine from Kansas State University and holds nutrition certifications from the NAVC and CIVT. Her business, Tula Veterinary Nutrition, hosts online courses that teach owners how to cook for their pet for optimal health and longevity. Follow her on Instagram at @doctorwolfe.dvm for dog nutrition tips, recipes and insights.