Crunchy, cheesy, and temptingly orange: Wotsits have been a classic snack in lunch boxes and game nights for decades, but “Can dogs eat wotsits?”
Imagine you are about to get cosy in bed with your favourite movie and snacks but your dog looks at you with those questions are you going to share with me hooman?
In this article, we are going to explore the food world. We will understand wotsits, are they harmless treats? So, grab your pack and let’s start…
Can Dogs Eat Wotsits?
Can dogs eat wotsits? The simple answer is, No! Wotsits Crisps are not safe for dogs to eat.
Wotsits are a mix of corn-based goodness, flavoured with cheese. While this might sound like a taste explosion for humans, our dogs may not share the same excitement.
Dogs have different dietary needs. A balanced diet made to their specific requirements is essential for their overall health and well-being. Human snacks like wotsits, may not provide the nutrients dogs need to thrive.
Risks and Concerns
With the wonderful taste of wotsits come the worries too. Let’s understand the risks and concerns associated with dogs eating wotsits.
High salt
Dogs, unlike humans, are more sensitive to sodium toxicity. Wotsits, being high in salt, can boost your dog’s sodium levels, posing a risk to their cardiovascular health.
This can lead to issues such as high blood pressure and heart problems. Excessive salt intake causes increased water consumption[1]. If your dog doesn't have enough water available, this can result in dehydration.
Dehydration is not only uncomfortable but can also lead to severe health complications. Dogs are more sensitive to salt than humans, and an excess can lead to serious health issues.
Artificial Additives
These additives, commonly found in human snacks, might not sit well with your dog’s digestive system. Dogs can be allergic to these additives, just as some humans are.
Common allergens include artificial colours, flavours, and preservatives, which may trigger allergic reactions in dogs. Dogs have sensitive digestive systems, and the introduction of unfamiliar additives can lead to upset stomachs.
Gastrointestinal distress may display as vomiting, diarrhoea, or discomfort. This can be distressing for both you and your dog. Allergic reactions or upset stomachs are risks associated with exposing dogs to these additives.
Alternatives and Healthy Treats
Let’s look into some healthy alternatives of wotsits for dogs:
- Carrot Sticks: Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them an excellent crunchy snack for dogs. They also contain beta-carotene, promoting good eye health. Ensure the carrot sticks are cut into bite-sized pieces to prevent choking, especially for smaller breeds.
- Apple Slices: Apples are a tasty source of vitamins A and C, as well as fibre. The crunchiness can help clean your dog’s teeth naturally. Remove the seeds and core, as they contain cyanide, inducing compounds that are harmful to dogs. Moderation is key due to natural sugars.
- Peanut Butter Banana Bites: Mix mashed bananas with peanut butter, spoon into moulds, and freeze. A delightful blend of potassium and healthy fats.
- Sweet Potato Chews: Sweet potatoes. Slice sweet potatoes into thin strips and bake until they achieve a chewy texture. Rich in vitamins and easy to make.
- Blueberry Frozen Delights: Dip blueberries in yoghurt and freeze. A refreshing treat loaded with antioxidants.
- Oatmeal Pumpkin Cookies: Mix ingredients, shape into cookies and bake. A tasty, fibre-packed option.
Considerations for Homemade Treats
Ensure ingredients are dog-safe, and avoid toxic foods like chocolate, onions, or garlic[2]. Treats should complement your dog's daily diet, not replace it. Adjust portions based on your dog's size and activity level.
If your dog has food allergies, make recipes accordingly and consult your vet. Before introducing new treats, consult your veterinarian to confirm they align with your dog’s dietary needs.
FAQs
1. What Crisps Can Dogs Eat?
They might be your favourite flavours of crisps but dogs should avoid eating all varieties of crisps. Crisps are OK in moderation if you’re a human, but cheese and onion or salt and vinegar crisps aren’t a healthy snack for your dog.
2. Can Dogs Eat Wotsits?
Generally, dogs should not eat crisps. That includes popular varieties such as Wotsits, Quavers, Mini Cheddars, Doritos, Pringles, Skips and Hula Hoops. While dogs can technically eat crisps without experiencing immediate harm, it’s not a healthy choice.
3. What Foods Are Toxic to Dogs?
Onions, garlic and chives. The onion family, whether dry, raw or cooked, is particularly toxic to dogs and can cause gastrointestinal irritation and red blood cell damage. Chocolate. Macadamia nuts. Corn on the cob. Avocado. Artificial sweetener (xylitol) Alcohol. Cooked bones.
4. How Many Chips Can I Give My Dog?
While 1 or 2 chips likely won’t damage your dog’s health, it’s still a risk if you regularly share these salty treats. Another option is to order your chips without salt, which most establishments are happy to do. The fat content is still problematic, but it’s at least better for your dog.
5. Can I Give Lays Chips to My Dog?
It’s not a good idea to share salty foods like chips or pretzels with your dog. Eating too much salt can make your dog seriously thirsty. That means a lot of trips to the fire hydrant and it could lead to sodium ion poisoning.
Conclusion
In conclusion “Can dogs eat wotsits?” While wotsits may look tasty to our dogs, these puffed corn snacks should be for humans only.
As we’ve uncovered, from high salt content to potential mould growth, Wotsits have ingredients that don’t go well with dog diets. Though an occasional Wotsit may not cause harm, making these a regular part of your dog’s meals could lead to poor health over time.
When those big brown eyes beg for a bite of your Wotsits, distract them with a nice dog treat or toy instead. Feed your dog a balanced diet, made for their needs.
So next movie night when you break a bag of these cheesy puffs, make sure your dog isn’t tempted by your snack. Remind them that just because they aren’t allowed Wotsits doesn’t mean they still can’t have a treat.
After all a happy dog is a healthy dog!
Reference:
- Grzyb, K., DVM. (2023, September 12). Why is my dog drinking a lot of water? PetMD.
- Toxic food for dogs | Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.
