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Yes, sauerkraut is safe for dogs. Sauerkraut has multiple health benefits since it contains probiotics, minerals, vitamins, and high fiber. Your dog might not be too keen to eat sauerkraut because of its strong smell, but you can mix it with their food to ensure they get some good nutrients from it.

Sauerkraut
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Safe: This food is generally considered safe by the veterinary community. Dogs can eat this food sometimes or in small amounts but contains little to no nutritional value.

Food Safety Safe in small amounts
Nutritional Value High fiber, probiotics, potassium, iron, calcium, B vitamin, and more
Potential Risks Excessive gas, upset tummy
Every dog is different. For specific feeding guidelines, including quantities and beneficial foods that are best for your dog, please consult your vet.

How to Prepare Sauerkraut for Dogs Safely?

When preparing sauerkraut for your dog, do not add caraway seeds. Typically, some sauerkraut is made with caraway seeds which are toxic to dogs. Hence, always make sure that the sauerkraut you are feeding your dog is free of these seeds.

Sauerkraut has a strong smell, and your dog might not want to eat this pungent food. You can mix it in their food to mask the scent or cook sauerkraut with another safe ingredient.

TIP: When feeding commercially available sauerkraut, rinse it with water before serving to reduce the sodium content. Always check the ingredients before feeding your dog store-bought food.

How Much Sauerkraut Is Safe for Dogs?

For every 20 pounds of body weight, you can feed 1 to three teaspoons of sauerkraut to your dog. Your dog’s weight and daily calorie intake are essential to consider when feeding your dog.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Your dog will get excessive gas and an upset tummy if they have eaten a lot of sauerkraut. Look out for signs of dehydration as well.

  • You can chop up the sauerkraut and mix it in wet dog food to mask the smell. You can also cook sauerkraut with apple sauce to make it more appealing for your dog.

  • Yes, dogs can eat canned sauerkraut. However, canned sauerkraut is loaded with sodium, so it is best to go for a product with the least amount. Thoroughly wash the sauerkraut before serving; this helps remove some sodium content.

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.