As a dog owner, you might have wondered whether it's safe to share some of your favorite human foods with your furry friend. One such food that often comes to mind is the egg roll. Egg rolls are a popular Chinese dish consisting of a filling wrapped in a thin dough and deep-fried until crispy. They are commonly enjoyed as appetizers or as part of a meal. But can dogs eat egg rolls? Let's delve into this question to ensure the well-being of your four-legged companion.

Are Egg Rolls Good for Dogs?

Egg rolls are a popular dish in many Asian cuisines, particularly Chinese cuisine. They are known for their crispy exterior and flavorful filling. But egg rolls are not considered good for dogs and are not recommended as part of their diet. While dogs can occasionally consume small amounts of certain human foods, egg rolls pose several risks and potential health issues for dogs. 

High Fat Content

Egg rolls are deep-fried, which means they are typically high in fat. Feeding dogs foods that are high in fat can lead to digestive issues such as

• upset stomach
• diarrhea
• pancreatitis

Pancreatitis is a serious condition that causes inflammation of the pancreas and can be life-threatening for dogs.

Related: Pancreatitis in Dogs – Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Seasonings and Ingredients

Egg rolls often contain ingredients and seasonings that can be harmful to dogs. Common seasonings like garlic, onions, and spices are toxic to dogs and can cause damage to their red blood cells, leading to anemia. It's important to note that even small amounts of these ingredients can be harmful to dogs.

• Onions- even small amounts can cause serious health problems for dogs, such as anaemia and red blood cell damage.
• Garlic- Similar to onions, garlic is toxic to dogs and can cause gastrointestinal distress, anaemia and other complications.
• Flavourings- Many of the flavourings used in omelets, such as salt, pepper and monosodium glutamate (MSG), can cause stomach irritation and electrolyte imbalances.

Allergies

Dogs can have food allergies just like humans. The ingredients used in egg rolls, such as wheat flour, soy sauce, or specific vegetables, can trigger allergic reactions in some dogs. Allergic reactions in dogs can manifest a

• itching
• skin irritation
• digestive problems
• respiratory distress

Choking Hazard

The crispy outer shell of egg rolls can pose a choking hazard, particularly for small dogs. The dough can become sticky and difficult to swallow, potentially leading to choking or obstruction in the digestive tract.

High in Sodium

These are just the side effects of feeding your dog an oily food. However, most omelet recipes also contain a lot of salt. Both the skin and the filling contain salt. 

A small amount of salt is necessary for a dog's body. However, humans consume far more salt than is safe for dogs. Excessive salt consumption over a long period of time can lead to salt poisoning. Too much salt in a dog can lead to dehydration, vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors, high fever and even seizures.

What Should I Do If My Dog Accidentally Eats Egg Roll?

If your dog has ingested an egg roll, especially if it contained potentially toxic ingredients like onions, garlic, or certain spices, it's best to reach out to your veterinarian for guidance. They can provide specific advice based on your dog's size, breed, and the ingredients involved.

If your dog has eaten an omelet that does not contain substances harmful to dogs such as onions and garlic, there is no need to worry if the amount is small. But need to keep an eye on your dog for any signs of discomfort or adverse reactions. Common symptoms of food poisoning or digestive upset in dogs may include

• vomiting
• diarrhea
• lethargy
• loss of appetite
• abdominal pain
• excessive drooling

If you notice any of these symptoms, it's advisable to contact your veterinarian.

How Many Egg Rolls Can a Dog Eat?

Although egg rolls are not recommended for dogs, it is fine to give them in small amounts once or twice a month, but no more often than that. The most important thing is to eliminate the garlic and onion from the omelet.
In general, it is best to start with a small piece (about the size of your thumb) for smaller dogs and about a quarter of an omelet for larger puppies. This should be enough to give them flavor without adding too much fat or calories to their diet.

If you decide to give your puppy an omelet, make sure they only eat one omelet a day as a treat and don't make it part of their daily diet.

Safe Egg Rolls Alternatives for Dogs

While it's understandable that you may want to share tasty treats with your dog, it's crucial to prioritize their health and well-being. Instead of giving them egg rolls, consider offering dog-friendly alternatives that are both safe and enjoyable for them:

Plain Cooked Eggs

Eggs can be a nutritious addition to your dog's diet when cooked thoroughly. They are an excellent source of protein and can provide essential nutrients. Remember to cook them without any added oils, seasonings, or salt.

Lean Meat or Vegetables

If you're looking to offer your dog a savory snack, consider giving them small amounts of cooked lean meats like chicken or turkey. You can also offer plain, cooked vegetables such as carrots or green beans as a healthy and low-calorie option.

Homemade Dog-friendly Egg Rolls

You can create a dog-friendly version of egg rolls using ingredients that are safe for dogs. Instead of using wrappers made with wheat flour, consider using rice paper or thinly sliced vegetables as a substitute. Fill them with dog-friendly ingredients like cooked lean meats (such as chicken or turkey), finely chopped vegetables (like carrots and green beans), and a small amount of rice or quinoa. Always ensure that the ingredients are cooked and free from any seasonings, spices, or additives that may be harmful to dogs.

Vegetable Rolls

Dogs can enjoy a variety of vegetables, and you can create a simple and safe alternative by making vegetable rolls. Use thinly sliced vegetables, such as carrots, cucumbers, and zucchini, and roll them up tightly. You can serve them as is or add a small amount of dog-safe dip like plain yogurt or mashed sweet potato for added flavor.

Conclusion

Whenever you eat them, your furry friend will ask you to share your food with him. However, you must not give in to its demands. They are not suitable for dogs, and the high fat content, flavourings and potential allergens make them a bad choice. It is important to prioritise your dog's health by providing them with a balanced and appropriate diet specifically formulated for their nutritional needs. Therefore, prepare something special for your dog while enjoying an egg roll.