Can Dogs Eat Slim Jims?

Can Dogs Eat Slim Jims

Meat can spoil over time without refrigeration or proper employment of preservation techniques.

 

Because of this, people invented beef jerky.

 

Jerky, by definition, is simply a process of preventing spoilage of fresh meat over long periods of time through drying/dehydrating methods.

 

Ever since then, a long list of beef jerky products sprouted, and one of them is the famous brand, Slim Jims.

 

Slim Jims are perfect food choices for on-the-go people.

 

They are handy, easily stored, and pre-packed in processing, so no worries about spills.

 

But does this human-friendly treat go the same with dogs?

 

Find out more below.

 

Can Dogs Eat Slim Jims?

beef jerky for dogs

 

Well, yes, they can but only in small amounts.

 

Although there is still meat, there is also much other stuff that can be harmful to dogs. Specifically:

 

Slim Jims have chemicals

The preservability of Slim Jims (beef jerky in general) lies in the chemicals and spices used to lengthen its shelf life.

 

The most common chemical found in Slim Jims is Sodium.

 

It is also responsible for giving the food its salty taste.

 

From a more scientific perspective, dogs are not allowed to intake more than 10mg of sodium daily.

 

Consuming more than the prescribed amount may lead to toxicity as manifested by the following:

  • Diarrhea
  • Vomiting
  • Seizures
  • Convulsions

 

In extreme cases, this can also lead to illnesses such as pancreatitis and, worse, death.

 

 

Learn More:

Can Dogs Eat Tapioca Pudding

 

 

Some ingredients unhealthy for dogs

Usually, beef jerky packages, including Slim Jims, are composed of onion powder, garlic, and sugar.

 

Though these mentioned are great taste-improving options when cooking food for people, this is not the case for dogs.

 

Onions, whether fresh or processed, contain N-propyl disulfide, which can cause red blood cell degradation in dogs.

 

It poses risks in causing anemia.

 

Moreover, garlic is also toxic to dogs as it contains thiosulfate, which affects dogs the same way onions do.

 

Some symptoms of onion or garlic poisoning are the following:

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Loss of appetite
  • Weakness
  • Lethargy
  • Dark-colored urine

 

Extra sugar, on the other hand, found in Slim Jims is not needed if the regular diet of dogs already provides it for them.

 

Increased sugar in their bloodstream will just increase their weight, which may lead to more complications.

 

Remember that if we need to regulate and take care of our bodily intake, so do dogs.

 

Conclusion

Overall, Slim Jims are better for human intake than for dogs.

 

They are undeniably delicious, and they are suited for busy bodies that are always on the go.

 

And as surprising as it is, Slim Jims can be given to dogs but only in minimal amounts and occasionally.

 

Once you begin eating Slim Jims and your dog starts drooling, making silent whines, and shows you their puppy eyes, you can give them a little taste.

 

Nothing more.

 

The purpose of giving them a small amount is to quell their desire for the treat.

 

This way, they will not feel deprived but not reach the point of toxicity either.

 

See Also

Russel

A pet owner who loves to share useful facts and information about a variety of animals.