It’s best to avoid feeding your canine chorizo – read below to find out why.
What is chorizo?
A chorizo is a type of sausage used in many cuisines, notably Spanish, Portuguese and Mexican cuisine. There are many variations of chorizo depending on geography, but two popular types are described below.
Spanish chorizos
Spanish chorizos contain pork and pork fat, mixed with seasonings such as garlic, paprika and salt. They are usually cured and smoked, and can be eaten as is or pan-fried, stewed and added to dishes (such as paella!).
Mexican chorizos
Mexican chorizos are different in that they can be made from pork, beef, chicken and other meats. They are usually seasoned with red peppers instead of paprika. The big difference, however, is that Mexican chorizos are sold raw and need to be cooked before eating. The sausage casing is sometimes inedible and must be removed. You can find them in tacos and burritos in many restaurants and food stands.
Can dogs have chorizo?
We recommend you avoid feeding your dog chorizo. The seasonings in chorizo, and preparation method of the chorizo, varies from region to region. Some of the seasonings are not safe for your dog, such as garlic which is commonly found in Spanish chorizos, or red peppers found in Mexican chorizos. While it may be a good protein source, chorizos usually contain high fat content from the use of fatty pork or pork fat. Cured and smoked chorizo can also be high in sodium, making your dog thirsty and dehydrated. Raw or undercooked Mexican chorizos may also cause your dog discomfort soon after eating.
Conclusion
The seasonings in chorizo can make your dog sick, and the high fat and salt content are not healthy for your dog either. It’s recommended you avoid chorizos altogether – this will allow you to feel assured that your dog stays healthy and happy!
