Can Dogs Eat Croutons?

In this research you will know the answer to the query “Can Dogs Eat Croutons?“.

Croutons may not seem like the first thing you would consider giving to your dog as a snack.

You may notice that they’re the perfect size to serve as training treats or snacks for your dog as you observe them further. 

It isnot just that they come in small packets making them perfect for training but they are also tasty and relatively cheap to purchase. 

It would also not be surprising if you were tempted to give your dog a crouton from your Caesar salad but the question is… are croutons safe for dogs?

Can Dogs have Croutons? Are croutons toxic?

Onion and garlic can be found in croutons which is the main reason why they are toxic. 

When eaten in large quantities onion and garlic can be toxic or even deadly to dogs. 

As a result if croutons contain those ingredients they might not be the best snack for your dog. 

If you can find croutons without this type of seasoning croutons can be a great snack for your pup. 

You can make your own croutons with multiple recipes online so you know exactly what goes into them.

What are the symptoms of onion or garlic poisoning?

Onion poisoning and garlic poisoning share the same symptoms since they both cause anemia. 

Garlic and onions which belong to the allium family contain thiosulfate. 

Thiosulfate is toxic to dogs and causes oxidative damage to red blood cells resulting in hemolytic anemia.

Rapid breathing weakness lethargy jaundice dark-colored urine and pale gums are symptoms of anemia. 

Anemia is not the only symptom of garlic toxicity. Additionally gastrointestinal upset is a common consequence. 

Vomiting diarrhea loss of appetite abdominal pain depression and dehydration are common symptoms. 

If you believe your dog is suffering from garlic or onion poisoning please take them to the vet as soon as possible.

What nutrition do croutons contain? Can Dogs Eat Croutons?

Croutons do not have many nutritional benefits unless they’re made from whole grain bread. 

Since most brands of croutons are made from enriched bread finding them can be difficult. 

Making your own whole wheat croutons is the easiest way to get them and there are some health benefits associated with that.

Croutons made from whole wheat have a good amount of carbohydrates that can provide a small energy boost to your dog. 

Additionally they contain a small amount of fiber.

Furthermore eating more whole grains has been linked to a decreased risk of serious health conditions such as cardiovascular disease and cancer.

Can dogs eat Italian seasoned croutons? Are Croutons Bad for Dogs?

It is important to research all the ingredients in the seasoning before giving your dog seasoned croutons. That way you will be sure there is nothing harmful in there. 

The main ingredients in Italian seasoning for example are basil oregano rosemary and thyme which are all things that dogs can eat in moderation. 

But what it contains can differ from recipe to recipe and its possible to find marjoram in some Italian seasoning. 

There are many symptoms of marjoram poisoning in dogs including seizures and bleeding disorders.

Toast vs Croutons Which is better for your dog?

Perhaps you do not want to buy seasoned croutons from the store but maybe you do not want to make them either. 

A similar alternative might be toast and honestly toast is pretty similar to croutons in terms of the nutritional value as long as it is made out of whole-grain bread. 

On top of that toast is also cheaper since you do not have to season it at all which means fewer ingredients. 

Preparation time will be reduced as a consequence. 

As a result even though both toast and salad have similar nutritional value toast would win because of its efficiency.

Can dogs eat garlic bread?

While garlic bread is a tasty snack it is something that should not be given to dogs. 

Although it is not particularly harmful to your dog it is not healthy either. 

In addition to garlic one of garlic breads other main ingredients is butter and butter isnot the healthiest choice either.

A dog with a dairy intolerance could suffer even more from butter since it is a dairy-based product. 

In addition if your dog eats too much butter at once it can cause gastroenteritis which can cause diarrhea and vomiting since gastroenteritis results from inflammation of the stomach and intestines. 

Further butter is so high in fat that it can contribute to weight problems in your dog as well as cause more serious problems like pancreatitis if your dog eats butter frequently.

Can dogs eat cheese?

You may be wondering now about other salad ingredients and whether or not your dog can eat them now that you know about the croutons. 

Your dog should be able to eat cheese in moderation and in fact it can eat cheese in moderation. 

It is a great training treat because it contains a lot of nutrients like protein calcium essential fatty acids vitamin A and B-complex vitamins. 

However you should keep in mind that your dog may be lactose intolerant in which case even small amounts of cheese should not be given to him. 

If your dog has cheese for the first time be sure to watch for signs of intestinal upset. Always speak to your vet if you have questions about changing your dogs diet.

If your dog isnot lactose intolerant you should be able to feed them cheese occasionally although you should choose low-fat cheeses such as goat cheese mozzarella and cottage cheese. 

Since cottage cheese is lower in sodium and fat than other cheeses it is arguably the best cheese to give your dog. 

Furthermore it has less lactose which reduces the chance of a negative reaction in your pup.

What other human foods make great dog training snacks?

We can also give our dogs other foods besides cheese that can be used as training treats and will provide them with nutrition. 

Apple slices are also among these foods which contain much fiber vitamin A and vitamin C as well as cleaning residue off your dogs teeth which will help keep their breath fresh. 

If you choose to give your dog apple slices make sure to remove the apple core and seeds to prevent choking hazards.

A dogs teeth will also benefit from eating carrots another human food. 

They’re not only great for your dogs teeth but are also high in fiber beta carotene and vitamin A all while being low in calories. 

Raw or cooked carrots can be fed to your dog but you must make sure that they are sliced into bite-sized chunks to prevent choking. 

Instead of slicing carrots you can opt for baby carrots which have the same nutrients but are already bite-sized.

Conclusion

Overall croutons can be a healthy training treat for your pup if they are not seasoned with anything toxic such as garlic or onions. 

Its always best to make your own pet food to ensure it does not contain any unwanted ingredients and its always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to our furry friends. 

You can also substitute carrots cheese or even plain toast if you do not feel like making homemade croutons. 

Any way you look at it your dog is sure to enjoy a special snack now and then.

If you want to read more about dog food tips read here: Dog Food Tips and Tricks.

Can Dogs Eat Croutons? (Watch Video)