Can dogs eat jalapenos?

UNITED STATES - 2012/03/24: USA, Washington State, Seattle, Pike Place Market, Produce Stand With Green Jalapeno Peppers. (Photo by Wolfgang Kaehler/LightRocket via Getty Images)
UNITED STATES - 2012/03/24: USA, Washington State, Seattle, Pike Place Market, Produce Stand With Green Jalapeno Peppers. (Photo by Wolfgang Kaehler/LightRocket via Getty Images)

While we don’t recommend letting our dogs eat people food, there is something to be said for adding fresh foods to their diet, and using fresh produce to make treats for our pups. But what about things like jalapenos?

If you happen to be a fan of spicy foods, you might be wondering if it was safe to share those spicier dishes with your dog. After all, sometimes that loaded nacho falls on the floor or the stuffing in your taco decides to make a run for it. And that’s where the mighty jalapeno comes into play.

While it may not be the spiciest pepper out there, jalapenos really do add a kick to any meal. But is this kick of heat dog safe? Technically, the answer is not as simple as a yes or no answer.

Are jalapenos safe for dogs?

While jalapenos are not toxic to dogs, that doesn’t necessarily mean they are actually something our pups should be eating. The reason for this is because it can have a very unpleasant and in some cases negative effect on their gastrointestinal tract.

According to Wag Walking, “Dogs that eat jalapenos can experience stomach pain, bloating, diarrhea, foul-smelling gas, and can show signs of dehydration or excessive thirst.”

All things considered, these are the types of reactions we are trying to avoid when it comes to giving our dogs a treat. And even if your pup wants to eat that spicy pepper, that doesn’t mean that they should.

As responsible pet owners, we need to be mindful of what the foods they are eating can do for their overall health, wellness, and comfort. And in terms of comfort, it definitely seems like the mighty jalapeno is not the way to go when it comes to adding fresh produce to our dog’s diet.

We are always trying to figure out which fresh vegetables and fruits our dogs can and cannot eat. And when it comes to the jalapeno, it is definitely a no from us.