Do not feed
Can dogs eat spicy food?
Do not feed spicy food. Capsaicin irritates a dog's mouth and gut, and dogs get no enjoyment from heat the way people do.
What to do
Offer water or a little plain yogurt. See a vet for persistent vomiting.
Signs to watch for
- drooling
- pawing at the mouth
- vomiting
- diarrhoea
- excessive thirst
What makes it harmful
Capsaicin
Capsaicin triggers pain receptors and irritates the gastrointestinal lining. Spicy dishes also usually contain onion and garlic.
Also check for
- onion and garlic
How confident is this
established
Well established in the veterinary literature and consistent across sources.
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
Further reading
Check another food
Informational only, and not a substitute for veterinary advice. Individual dogs vary, and this page cannot account for your dog's age, size, health conditions or medication. If you are worried, phone a vet — that call is always the right call.