Can Dogs Eat Beef Jerky? How to Feed Jerky to Dogs

Beef jerky is generally safe for dogs to eat, provided that it comes from a single dried meat source and does not contain any additives or preservatives that may be unsafe for dogs. Beef jerky intended for human consumption may contain seasonings that, while safe for people, can be harmful ingredients for dogs. That doesn’t mean your dog has to miss out on beef jerky entirely: Homemade jerky, store-bought jerky dog treats, and natural types of beef jerky can all be good options. Just check the ingredients list, and, when in doubt, talk to your veterinarian.

Like other forms of meat, jerky is a good source of protein, and its chewy consistency can be good for your dog’s teeth. So not only can dogs eat beef jerky, they may benefit from it, provided the snack is free of unsafe ingredients. If you want to give your dog beef jerky treats, use the following tips for guidance:

• Homemade beef jerky is best. Dog owners can make beef jerky dog treats by drying meat at home. Making dog-safe natural beef jerky involves drying lean beef and adding almost nothing. The add-ons that flavor processed products like beef jerky sticks may not be safe for dogs. Stick with plain beef jerky.
• Choose jerky with low sodium content. Dogs cannot handle the same quantities of sodium as humans, so watch the salt content in your dog’s beef jerky. Special jerky flavors like teriyaki beef jerky, peppered beef jerky, spicy beef jerky, or soy sauce–glazed jerky will likely have too much sodium. Large quantities of spices, like black pepper, aren’t suitable for dogs; they can give them an upset stomach and potentially cause excess urination.
• Look for dog-friendly jerky snacks. Many dog food companies make a style of beef jerky custom-formulated for pets. Give your dog this kind of beef jerky and keep the human-grade beef jerky for yourself.
• Avoid jerky that contains onion or garlic. Onions and garlic are common seasonings found in different types of beef jerky. They are part of the allium family, which is toxic to dogs. Keep your dog’s beef jerky free of seasonings like onion powder or garlic powder.
• Steer clear of xylitol. Xylitol is an artificial sweetener found in many human foods (including, occasionally, flavored beef jerky) to add flavor and increase shelf life. Xylitol is extremely toxic to dogs. It can cause an upset stomach in small quantities, but larger amounts can be deadly. If jerky contains any xylitol, keep it away from your dog.
• Feed them jerky in moderation. Even the best jerky can be harmful if you feed your dog too much. Ensure your dog receives thirty percent or less of their daily calories from treats like beef jerky.
• Try other types of meat jerky. Your furry friend will probably love chicken jerky and turkey jerky, too. As with beef jerky, always check the ingredients label and consider homemade or dog-specific jerky.

If your dog eats spicy beef jerky, provide them with plenty of water to drink—they’ll need it to balance its high salt content. Call your veterinarian if your dog develops symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. If your dog ate a harmful ingredient like onions, garlic, or xylitol, bring them directly to the vet for monitoring.

Certain human foods can cause adverse reactions in canines, so always consult your veterinarian to determine whether it is safe to add these foods to your pet’s diet. This article is for educational and informational purposes and is not a substitute for medical or dietary advice.

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