Can Dogs Eat Mayonnaise?

While mayonnaise isn’t toxic to dogs, it’s not recommended as a regular treat or food addition. Mayonnaise is primarily made of eggs and oil, making it high in fat with very little nutritional value for your dog. The high fat content can lead to various health issues if consumed regularly.

How to handle mayonnaise with dogs

If your dog happens to lick some mayonnaise or eat food containing a small amount, there’s usually no immediate cause for concern. However, you should not intentionally feed mayonnaise to your dog. If you need to give medication to your dog that requires a tasty substance:

Use healthier alternatives like plain yogurt or peanut butter (xylitol-free)
Consider commercial pill pockets designed for dogs
Consult with your veterinarian for better options

Warnings and Considerations

There are several important risks associated with feeding mayonnaise to dogs:

High fat content can lead to pancreatitis
Excessive calories contribute to obesity
Some brands contain garlic or onion powder, which are toxic to dogs
Commercial mayonnaise often contains artificial preservatives that aren’t healthy for dogs
Salt content can be problematic for dogs with heart conditions

Portion Guidelines

Since mayonnaise isn’t recommended for dogs, there’s no safe portion guideline. If your dog accidentally consumes mayonnaise:

Small amounts (a lick or two) are usually fine
Monitor your dog for signs of digestive upset
Contact your vet if you notice:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite

Good to know: If you’re looking to add moisture or palatability to your dog’s food, consider safer alternatives like: