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Wasabi or Japanese Horseradish is a pungent and spicy rhizome that tastes like hot mustard. After certain degrees of grating, it is used to achieve powder and added as an ingredient in sushi rolls. The nutritional value of Wasabi is negligible because of its minimal consumption. However, its medical benefits include preventing food poisoning, cholesterol controlling and anti-aging properties. A raw root contains 23% of Carbs, 70% water, vitamins & minerals, 4.8% of Protein, and 0.6% of the Fat content. So humans can enjoy its pungent taste in those spicy sushi rolls. But the question is can dogs eat wasabi?
Can Dogs Eat Wasabi?
No, dogs cannot eat wasabi, however, is not toxic. Feeding your dog with this spicy ingredient would mean that you have stimulated its nose with a pungent odor and taste. You don’t want to feed your dog with this herb even though puppies do not have any trait of developing toxicity. Do you want to know why? Let’s find out.
What Can Wasabi Do To Your Dog
Dogs are not genetically intolerant to Wasabi but don’t make it their treat. Wasabi is a spicy herb, and if consumed, it can cause the following troubles to your dog:
- Stomach upset
- Persistent thirst due to retention of the flavor
- Flatulence
- Burning sensations in the mouth
- Pain in the abdomen
- Runny nose
A lump of Wasabi can constrict a dog’s throat and cause breathing difficulty. However, dogs like German Shepherds and Chihuahuas may show different and less severe symptoms.
Wasabi consumption can be more troublesome for dogs with pre-existing conditions like GI or kidney diseases. This is because it can enhance the pre-existing symptoms of burning and irritation in that case.
Do You Need To Worry About Quantity?
What happens to you when you eat green chilies? An urge for water intake! Similarly, Wasabi can stimulate your dog even if consumed in little quantity. A small amount may only cause irritation and discomfort, but a good amount may cause trouble on a systemic level.
It also varies from dog to dog. Some dogs cope with that in a short period, but many of them remain uncomfortable. So regardless of the consumed quantity, your dog will somehow react once it tastes or smells Wasabi.
In Japan, many dog owners use a trick to refrain their dogs from chewing furniture. They give their dogs a nasty surprise of Wasabi by applying its minute quantity on the surfaces.
What Makes a Wasabi Unfavorable For Dogs
The chemical constituent responsible for making Wasabi a spicy herb is Allyl Isothiocyanate. The wasabi plant protects itself from getting damaged by herbivores by producing this compound, which has a pungent odor and sharp taste. This creates an understanding of how a herb can be unsafe for your four-legged if nature is making it as a defense mechanism against it.
How To Find Out If Your Dog Has Consumed Wasabi
Following signs and symptoms will help you find out if your dog has consumed Wasabi:
- Keep an eye on your dog’s acts. It would want to look for ways to remove the taste of Wasabi from its mouth by doing actions like licking lips and hanging out the tongue.
- Watch if your dog rubs its snout, rolls over the floor, rubs its face, or sneezes in a row.
- Eating a sharp spice increases thirst, so your dog will look for water.
- Another sign is dropped ears. Your dog will pull its ears back out of irritation.
- You can judge the anxiety by checking its pace. It may pace faster due to the adrenaline rush.
- The dogs will run here and there by tucking tails between their legs.
What To Do If Your Dog Has Eaten Wasabi
If your dog accidentally eats Wasabi, there is no need to panic as we know that Wasabi is not toxic. It’s only irritable. Visit a vet if your dog’s health makes you worry. But if it seems only uncomfortable, you can overcome a Wasabi reaction in your dog by following these steps:
- Clean your dog’s mouth instantly and make sure there are no remains left accumulated.
- Intake of plenty of water will make the symptoms suppress.
- Observe your dog! If it sneezes continuously, rubs its snout, is anxious, or shows restless body language, it’s time to take professional suggestions.
What If Your Dog Licks Synthetic Wasabi Sauce
If you think Wasabi sauces contain Wasabi, you might be wrong. The Washington Post claims that 99% of wasabi sauce is made by mixing only mustard, citric acid, and green food coloring. However, Wasabi sauce can be worse for a dog as it contains citric acid, which can cause severe throat irritation, sneezing, and even CNS depression. Also, synthetic dye may cause allergies.
What About Wasabi Peas?
Peas contain fiber, iron, and significant vitamins. But does this make wasabi peas good for dogs? Fried peas contain the seasoning of starch sugar, salt, oil, and Wasabi sauce. A few peas may not cause any harm to your dog’s stomach, but it’s better not to put your dog’s health at risk by feeding them with Wasabi peas.
How To Prevent Your Dog From Eating Wasabi
If you are a Wasabi lover and cannot stop its entry into your house, make sure you follow this to avoid the chances of this spice with your dog’s mouth and nasal mucosa.
- Always wipe your plate after eating sushi or cuisines in which Wasabi sauce is used so that your pooch doesn’t get harmed by licking your plate.
- Store Wasabi or Wasabi sauce out of reach of your dog.
- Refrigerators or high shelves are secured places to keep little paws away from this herb.
- Be alert or move away from your dog when having food containing wasabi, as the dogs tend to grasp it quickly.
Conclusion
Can Dogs Eat Wasabi? Long story short, there are no such ingredients in Wasabi that can make it toxic for dogs; neither are they born with toxic traits. But you’ll need to refrain your dog from eating Wasabi only due to its spicy taste and pungent odor.
Never risk your dog’s health by being careless towards Wasabi. However, even if a bit of contact may not cause significant harm, it is worth knowing that spices are not good for dogs.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can Dogs Eat Wasabi Safely?
No, it’s generally unsafe for dogs to consume wasabi due to its spicy nature. The ingredients can cause gastrointestinal distress, and the strong flavor can be overwhelming for dogs.
2. What Should I Do If My Dog Eats Wasabi?
Immediately provide your dog with plenty of water to help dilute the spiciness. Observe your pet for any signs of distress, and contact your vet for professional advice and necessary steps to ensure your dog’s safety.
3. Are There Any Long-term Effects of Dogs Eating Wasabi?
While there might not always be long-term effects, some dogs can experience significant discomfort, gastrointestinal issues, and allergic reactions. It’s crucial to monitor your dog and seek vet care if needed.
4. Is There a Safe Amount of Wasabi for Dogs?
Given the spice and intensity of wasabi, it’s best to avoid giving any amount to dogs. Always err on the side of caution and opt for dog-friendly treats instead.
5. How Can I Prevent My Dog from Eating Spicy Foods Like Wasabi?
Store wasabi and other spicy foods out of your dog’s reach. Educate family members, especially children, about the dangers of feeding such foods to pets. Always supervise your dog in areas where these foods are accessible.
6. What are the Symptoms If a Dog Consumes Wasabi?
Symptoms can include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of discomfort due to the spice. Always observe your dog closely if they’ve consumed any and contact a vet if necessary.
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