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Can Dogs Eat Pho (Vietnamese Beef Soup)? We Asked a Vet

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If you’re a fan of Vietnamese pho, you may be wondering if it’s safe to share your favorite soup with your dog. The last thing you’d want to do is share something with your pup that wasn’t good for them.

So, can dogs eat pho? The short answer is yes, dogs can eat pho. While pho has ingredients that can be healthy for dogs it’s important to only feed it to them in moderation. However, if the pho contains any onions or garlic it absolutely shouldn’t be shared with your dog as these are toxic.

In this article you’ll discover:

  • A detailed answer about dogs eating pho
  • The health benefits of pho for dogs
  • The dangers associated to dogs eating pho
  • What to do if your dog eats too much pho

Let’s jump right in.

Can dogs eat pho

Can Dogs Eat Vietnamese Beef Soup (Phở)?

Dogs are known for their scavenging habits and will often try to eat anything they come across, regardless of whether or not it is good for them. This can obviously lead to some problems, particularly when it comes to foods that are high in salt or spice.

Pho is a Vietnamese beef noodle soup that falls into this category. It is typically made with beef or chicken broth that is heavily seasoned with ginger, cloves, star anise, and other spices.

In addition, the noodles are usually topped with meats and vegetables that have been cooked in the broth. While some dogs may be able to eat small amounts of pho without any problems, it is generally not recommended as a regular part of their diet.

The spices and seasonings can cause stomach upset, and the broth can be too salty for some dogs. It is also worth noting that cooked vegetables can be hard for dogs to digest.

If you do decide to give your dog pho, it is best to do so in moderation and to avoid the ingredients that are most likely to cause problems.

Related Reading: Can Dogs Eat Ramen Noodles? Raw, Instant, or Cooked?

Health Benefits Of Pho For Dogs

The most obvious benefit is that pho provides dogs with a healthy source of hydration. This traditional Vietnamese soup consists of rice noodles, broth, and meat.

The broth is packed with nutrients and electrolytes, which can help to keep your dog’s body properly hydrated. Additionally, the rice noodles are a good source of complex carbohydrates, which can give your dog sustained energy.

Another benefit of pho for dogs is that it can help to boost their immune system. The soup contains ginger and other ingredients that have antibacterial and antiviral properties. 

These properties can help to protect your dog from harmful bacteria and viruses. Additionally, the soup is rich in antioxidants, which can help to fight free radicals and promote a healthy immune system.

Lastly, pho can also help to support digestive health. The soup contains probiotics, which are live microorganisms that provide numerous health benefits. 

Probiotics can help to reduce inflammation in the gut, balance the microbiome, and bolster the immune system. Additionally, they can help relieve symptoms of diarrhea, constipation, and gas.

Dangers Of Dogs Eating Pho

Pho can sometimes contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs, such as onions, garlic, and scallions. In addition, the broth is often very salty, which can lead to dehydration if they have too much without water nearby.

If your dog eats pho, it is important to watch for signs of illness and contact your veterinarian if your dog seems sick. Symptoms of onion or garlic toxicity in dogs can include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy. Symptoms of salt poisoning in dogs include excessive thirst, seizures, and coma in the most severe cases.

If your dog has eaten pho and is showing any adverse symptoms, please contact your vet.

Can Dogs Get Sick From Pho?

The only times a dog will get sick after eating pho is if they ate a large amount of it or if it contained spices that are toxic to dogs, like onions or garlic.

If your dog only had a small amount of pho and you’re sure there wasn’t anything in it that is dangerous to them, they’re not likely to get sick.

What To Do If Your Dog Eats a Lot Of Pho?

If your dog ate a lot of pho, you should first offer them water to drink. This will help to prevent dehydration from the salt in the broth.
Suppose you’re concerned that your dog may have eaten something toxic, such as onions or garlic. In that case, it is best to contact your veterinarian.

They can determine if your dog needs to be seen and treated.
You know your dog best, so if you suspect an issue, please don’t hesitate to contact your vet for help.

Generally, dogs that overeat will just experience gastrointestinal upset with vomiting and diarrhea. However, it should only last about 24-48 hours. Any longer, and I would contact your vet.

Final Thoughts

In short, dogs can eat pho, but there are some things you should be aware of before feeding it to them.

Pho can be a healthy snack for your dog, as long as it doesn’t contain any ingredients that are toxic to them.

If you’re unsure about something, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and consult with your veterinarian.

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