Funyuns are a popular snack food that many people enjoy for their crispy texture and onion flavor.
They are made from cornmeal, vegetable oil, salt, and various seasonings, including onion powder and garlic powder.
But what if your dog gets a hold of a bag of Funyuns and starts munching on them? Are they safe for dogs to eat? Or are they harmful to their health?
In this article, we are going to answer the question: Can dogs eat Funyuns?
We’ll also explain why Funyuns are awful for pooches, what the dangers of pooches eating Funyuns are, and what to do on the off chance that your pooch eats Funyuns.
Let’s get started!
Contents
What are Funyuns?
Funyuns are a well-known brand of onion–flavored snack rings that offer a distinctive and savory snacking experience.
These crisp and crunchy rings have a taste evocative of onions since they are produced from a mixture of cornmeal and several spices.
As a fun and entertaining delicacy, Funyuns stand out because of their distinctive texture, which blends the pleasant crunch of a snack chip with the form of a ring.
Funyuns are a popular choice for people trying to satisfy their snack desires with a unique flavor and texture thanks to their robust and acidic onion flavour, which is loved by many.
Can Dogs Eat Funyuns?
In one word, NO. Dogs shouldn’t eat Funyuns.
This is due to the fact that Funyuns are heavy in fat, salt, and artificial additives, all of which can harm a dog’s health in different ways[1].
Additionally, they include garlic and onion powder, both of which are hazardous to dogs in large doses.
Funyuns have no nutritional value for dogs and can only harm their health.
Therefore, you should keep them away from your dog and never feed them as a treat or reward.
Why Are Funyuns Bad for Dogs?
There are several reasons why Funyuns are bad for dogs.
Here are some of them:
- High in fat
Funyuns contain a lot of fat since they are cooked in vegetable oil. In dogs, excess fat can result in pancreatitis, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity.
- High in salt
Additionally, funyuns can induce renal injury, dehydration, sodium poisoning, and high blood pressure in dogs.
- Artificial additives
Monosodium glutamate (MSG), dextrose, maltodextrin, and natural flavors are just a few of the artificial ingredients included in funyuns.
These ingredients may result in behavioral disorders, digestive problems, and allergic reactions in dogs.
- Toxic seasonings
Funyuns contain onion powder and garlic powder, which are members of the Allium family.
These seasonings can damage the red blood cells of dogs and cause hemolytic anemia, a condition that reduces the oxygen–carrying capacity of the blood.
Symptoms of hemolytic anemia include weakness, lethargy, pale gums, rapid breathing, and dark urine[2].
What Are the Dangers of Dogs Eating Funyuns?
Depending on the amount and frequency of consumption, dogs eating Funyuns can face various dangers.
Some of them are:
- Vomiting and diarrhea
Dogs eating Funyuns can experience vomiting and diarrhea due to the high fat and salt content.
This can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance in dogs.
- Bloating and gas
The artificial flavors and ingredients in Funyuns might cause dogs to get bloated and experience flatulence.
For dogs, this may result in discomfort and agony in the abdomen.
- Choking and intestinal obstruction
Dogs eating Funyuns can also choke on the pieces or develop intestinal obstruction if they swallow large chunks.
This can cause breathing difficulties and intestinal damage in dogs.
- Toxicity and organ failure
If dogs consume too much onion powder or garlic powder while eating Funyuns, they may become poisoned and have organ failure.
When this happens to dogs, it can result in severe anemia, liver and kidney damage, and even death.
What to Do If Your Dog Eats Funyuns
If your dog eats Funyuns, you should take immediate action to prevent any serious complications. Here are some steps you should follow:
- Check how much your dog ate
Attempt to assess how much of the pack your canine ate and how long ago it happened. This will help you decide the seriousness of the circumstances and the appropriate course of action.
- Call your vet
Inform your veterinarian of what transpired as soon as you can. Your veterinarian will provide you with advice on what to do next in light of the size, age, health, and symptoms of your dog.
- Induce vomiting
If your vet recommends it, you may need to induce vomiting in your dog to get rid of the ingested Funyuns.
You can do this by giving your dog a small amount of hydrogen peroxide (1 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight) orally.
However, do not induce vomiting if your dog is unconscious, has trouble breathing, or has swallowed sharp pieces.
- Provide water
Give your dog plenty of fresh water to drink to prevent dehydration and flush out the excess salt from their system.
- Monitor your dog
Keep an eye on your dog for any signs of distress or discomfort.
Look for symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, bloating, gas, weakness, lethargy, pale gums, rapid breathing, dark urine, or seizures[3].
If you notice any of these symptoms or if your dog’s condition worsens, take them to the vet immediately.
Safer Snack Alternatives for Dogs
If you’re looking for safe and healthy treats to share with your furry friend, there are plenty of options available.
Some great alternatives to Funyuns include:
- Carrot Sticks
Dogs often appreciate the crunch of carrots, which are packed with vitamins and minerals that are advantageous for their wellbeing.
- Apple Slices
Be sure to remove the seeds and core, but apples can be a tasty and safe treat for dogs in moderation.
- Plain Popcorn
Skip the butter and seasoning, and opt for plain, air–popped popcorn as an occasional treat.
- Cooked Meat
Small pieces of cooked chicken, turkey, or lean beef can be a protein-rich snack for your pup.
FAQs
Are there any onion-flavored snacks that are safe for dogs?
It’s best to avoid feeding dogs any snacks that are flavored with onions, even in small amounts. Instead, consider offering safe and dog-friendly alternatives like plain vegetables or lean meats as occasional treats.
What are the dangers of onions for dogs?
Onions contain compounds that can cause hemolytic anemia in dogs, where red blood cells break down faster than they can be replaced. This condition can lead to weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, and more severe health complications if left untreated.
Can I give my dog other types of chips or snacks?
Many human snacks, including chips, are often high in salt, unhealthy fats, and artificial additives that are not suitable for dogs. It’s advisable to provide dog-specific treats or healthy, dog-safe foods like fruits and vegetables as an alternative.
How can I satisfy my dog’s desire for crunchy snacks?
If your dog enjoys crunchy textures, consider offering safe options like carrot sticks, apple slices (without seeds), or plain, air-popped popcorn. Always ensure that the snacks are appropriate for dogs and don’t contain harmful ingredients.
Are there any health benefits to feeding dogs Funyuns or similar snacks?
Funyuns and similar snacks are not nutritionally beneficial for dogs. They are often high in unhealthy additives, salt, and artificial flavors. It’s better to focus on providing your dog with balanced and nutritious meals and treats specifically designed for their dietary needs.
Conclusion
When it comes to sharing snacks with our dogs, it’s crucial to prioritize their health and well-being.
While it might be tempting to let them try a Funyun or two, the risks associated with the onion content and other unhealthy ingredients make it a less-than-ideal choice.
Instead of Funyuns, you should feed your dog healthy and nutritious treats that are specially formulated for dogs.
You can also make your own homemade treats using natural ingredients that are safe and beneficial for dogs.
Always consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure about whether a specific food is safe for your furry friend, as their guidance can help ensure a happy and healthy life for your beloved companion.
Remember, Funyuns are not fun for dogs. They are only fun for humans who enjoy their crispy texture and onion flavor.
So, keep them to yourself and share something else with your furry friend.
Your dog will thank you for it!
Reference:
- Dog Health Symptoms A to Z | WebMD
- Anemia in dogs | VCA Animal Hospitals
- If Your Dog’s Having a Seizure, Here’s What You Should Do | American Kennel Club
Dania is a dog groomer living in California, who loves styling dogs. She often uses dog accessories to keep them distracted while grooming. She is also a dog parent to a Pomeranian, Duke. It’s because of him she is always on a lookout for the best dog foods, toys, other dog accessories, and ways to keep him equipped, healthy and happy.
