Quick Navigation
If you think about whether dogs can eat hush puppies, remember how nutrition is crucial to your dog’s health and overall look.
How you feed your pet makes all the difference.
The more nutritional food you feed your dog, the more likely their fur will shine.
And as we love our pets like humans, it often becomes our habit to feed them from our plates.
But is feeding your dog with human food okay?
Is it harmful to your dog?
Surprisingly, many people wonder whether their dog can have hush puppies.
The answer to this is not straightforward.
Hence, we need to consider several factors.
What Are Hush Puppies?
A hush puppy is a ball-shaped, deep-fried side dish.
They are small in size and made from cornmeal-based batter.
Most of the time, they are served with seafood.
Origin And Name of Hush Puppies
These are known to have originated in the USA, most probably in the South USA.
Native Americans are associated with the first use of grounded corn as a portion of food.
The name is frequently attributed to anglers and hunters.
It is believed that anglers would fry some cornmeal mixture, which they had used to batter their main course.
They would use this fried mixture in ‘hush puppies’ for those who used to go hungry before the main course, keeping them away from the main dish.
Can Dogs Eat Hush Puppies?
Dogs will eat hush puppies, being omnivores.
But the real question is whether it is safe for your dog.
Technically, there is no immediate risk linked to hush puppies consumption in dogs.
But as a food, it is not nutritious enough for your dog.
The ingredients include cornmeal, wheat flour, buttermilk, eggs, and salt, which are not proper food for your dog.
None of these ingredients is recommended for your pet.
Hush Puppies Are Unhealthy For Your Dog
First, all the ingredients are non-nutritious
Second, they are deep-fried, making them unfit for your dog.
Third, they are not digestible in large amounts, as it contains a significant amount of carb.
Occasionally giving your dog hush puppies does not cause any issues.
But making it a habit may put your dog’s health at risk, making them sick.
Too Many Calories
Even very healthy and active dogs may be unable to burn off the calories from this fried food.
In the long run, eating hush puppies may cause liver problems in your pet.
Often, pancreatitis is observed in dogs fed fried foods because their digestive system is not well suited to such foods.
A dog’s digestive system would work best if low-calorie plus protein-rich foods are fed to them.
Oil And Salt, Not For Your Dog
If you still want your dog to eat hush puppies, remember that its ingredients are generally healthy, especially oil and salt.
Mostly, the oils used are vegetable or canola oil, full of trans fats.
If your dog consumes them in excess, salt may result in dehydration, excess thirst, and the urge to urinate frequently.
Long-term salt intake can have an impact on their kidneys.
Sometimes, salt poisoning is also reported in dogs.
Thus, it’s wise to keep them from eating salty and fried foods, including hush puppies.
Your Dog May Gain Weight From Eating Hush Puppies
Hushpuppies are a combination of fat and carbs.
Feeding your pet often makes him look dull and leads to weight gain.
It is undoubtedly a bad idea if you plan to take out your dog for a competition.
It is not a healthy weight gain if you think it is an excellent way to turn your skinny dog bulky.
Why?
Because your dog can gain a healthy weight through nutritious and protein-rich food.
So, it’s better to say no to these empty calories.
Your Dog May Become Lethargic From Eating Hush Puppies
Unhealthy foods make a person lazy, which would be the same with your dog.
Regular intake of hush puppies can turn your canine lazy, inactive, and unenergetic.
It may feel bloated occasionally.
Lethargy over a period will eventually result in weight gain.
A sedentary lifestyle does not suit any dog leading to a shorter life span.
Your Dog May Get Horrendous Gas Or Diarrhea From Eating Hush Puppies
As hush puppies are fried food, there is a high chance that they can upset the dog’s tummy.
It may further cause gastric problems or, worst case, diarrhea.
During diarrhea, your dog will lose a lot of fluids, making him sick and weak.
If the condition persists, you should always visit your vet immediately.
How To Avoid Heavy, Greasy Hush Puppies?
Ensure that the oil temperature is right.
You can use a deep frying thermometer or an electric deep fryer if your budget allows it.
Fry at 375°F using a deep frying thermometer or set your electric deep fryer at 375°F and its thermostat will take care of the rest.
What Is The Best Food For Your Dog?
Dogs look and act their best when given healthy and nutritious meals.
Their primary food is protein-rich food like meat, bone meal, and meat by-products.
They even do well with veggies and some fruits.
Try not to give your dog foods like chocolates, nuts, caffeine, raisins, onions, and garlic because these foods tend to cause liver damage in a dog.
So, instead, give them diets with whole food ingredients.
It has to be a low-calorie diet with fresh and natural ingredients.
Conclusion
Feeding your dog a well-balanced diet can immensely impact its health.
According to canine nutrition research, a well-balanced diet constitutes an appropriate amount of amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids.
These nutrients are needed to fuel the proper growth of tissues and all biological processes.
You may refer to Nutritional guidelines developed by the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO).
Additionally, you can consult your veterinarian for your dog’s specific requirements.
Now you may either buy or make the food for your dog.
Just make sure that these recipes should be complete and balanced as created by nutritionists.
Now, the choice lies with you, healthy meals or empty calories for your dog?
Zoey is a long-time pet owner and animal rights advocate, a vital part of Purrfect n’ Pawesome. She shares her unique experiences and learnings with her readers to enhance their understanding of pet behavior and nutrition. Along with being an active pet writer, she volunteers at multiple animal shelters, rescue centres with some bespokenly awesome pets.
Zoey has a lot to share when raising the pets and spending life being their true friends. She has a quite pampered Persian cat and a Ragdoll, whom she loves the most. Readout her blogs to know more about being a responsible parent to your beloved pets.
“I love to be around cats and dogs; that’s my passion and my trick to get away from all the negativity and soaking in unconditional love and affection. Being attached to this platform gives me the reason to be vocal about pet love, care, and nurturing. Although I am not an expert or veterinarian by any means, I have a lot of experience and learnings to share with my fellow readers.”
