There is no doubt that a good Serrano ham is an essential part of the Spanish diet and that it has a positive nutritional contribution, especially if it is ham without additives. But is it healthy for your dog to be offered ham bones or slices of ham?
Serrano ham is not only delicious, but also offers a number of health benefits. It is a rich source of high quality protein, essential for tissue development and repair. It also contains B vitamins, iron and zinc, important nutrients for the proper functioning of the body. But does all this benefit your dog? The answer is a resounding NO.
Is Serrano Ham Safe for Dogs?
Serrano ham is a delicious treat for humans, but is it safe for our canine friends? This is a question many dog owners ask themselves. In this article, we'll explore whether dogs can eat prosciutto, the possible risks and what healthier alternatives exist for our lovable companions.
Salt Content
Serrano ham is known for its high salt content, which is a key aspect of the curing process. However, it can be harmful to dogs. Excessive salt consumption can lead to health problems such as hypertension and dehydration. In severe cases, it can lead to poisoning, which can be fatal for dogs.
Dogs' digestive systems are not adapted to process large amounts of salt, so consumption of this type of food can lead to vomiting, diarrhoea and stomach upset.
It is very common to find serrano ham bones for dogs in pet shops, but this is not a good option at all, not because it is a bone, which is one of the main bases of their diet, as long as it is raw and covered with meat, but because of the amount of salt they contain and because they are dehydrated, which makes them splintery and a great danger for dogs.
Fats and preservatives
The fats contained in Serrano ham are not a problem, as they are very necessary in the diet of a healthy dog, but not the preservatives and additives, which can be toxic for dogs and cause adverse reactions.
Logically, if you are eating Serrano ham and you give him a small piece of it, nothing will happen, especially if it is Spanish ham with no additives and low salt content.
Healthy choices for your dog
I have a wonderful dog who is now 13 years old and for the last 8 years has been fed on natural diets, i.e. meat, meaty bones, offal and fish. All raw, of course, after freezing to avoid any kind of bacteria, although meat for human consumption already complies with all the health guarantees. Some vegetables and fruit can be included in their diet, although they are not essential.
This natural diet, adapted to their biological condition, which is how they ate before their domestication (domestication has not changed their digestive system at all) is the best thing you can do for your dog, as feed, low-quality food, however expensive the sack, is practically artificial food full of synthetic additives.
This type of diet is known as BARF, which stands for "Biologically Appropriate Raw Food". If you are interested in your dog's health, it is essential that you start this diet under the supervision of a professional veterinary nutritionist.
Conclusion
Although Serrano ham is a treat for humans with many benefits, it is not a safe choice for dogs, particularly due to its high salt content. The risks associated with its consumption far outweigh any potential benefits. It is important to opt for healthier and safer alternatives to keep your doggy friend happy and healthy.
Always consult your vet before introducing new foods into your dog's diet, and if you're up for it, find out about the BARF diet, which is the best thing you can do for your furry friend's health.
In Spain, little by little, more and more people are becoming aware and opting for a natural diet based on the biologically appropriate dietary needs of dogs, but there is still a long way to go. In countries such as Germany and France, it is much more established.
Remember that you have the option of buying Serrano and Iberian hams without additives and with low salt content in our online Spanish ham store Jamón Pasión, and if you give a little bit to your dog on occasion, nothing will happen to him.