Dog Food

Can Dogs Eat Boerewors?

Boerewors smells irresistible to many dogs, but it is made for people, not pets. The fat, salt, spices, possible onion or garlic, and braai leftovers around it can make it a risky treat.

Last reviewed: 2026-05-13

Educational guide

This page is for general South African dog-owner education. It does not replace a veterinarian, qualified behaviour professional, insurer, or other relevant professional. For urgent symptoms or fast-worsening problems, contact a vet immediately.

Quick takeaways

Best answer: do not feed boerewors as a dog treat.
Fatty sausage can upset the stomach and may be dangerous for dogs prone to pancreatitis.
Onion, garlic, spices, salty seasoning, cooked bones, and braai scraps can all create risk.
If your dog ate a lot or becomes sick, contact a vet for advice.

Why boerewors is not a good dog food

Boerewors recipes vary, but many include salt, spices, fat, and flavourings that are not suitable for dogs. Even if a particular piece seems plain, it is still a rich sausage.

Concern	Why to avoid it
Fat	Can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and pancreatitis risk in some dogs.
Salt	Unnecessary and potentially risky, especially for dogs with medical problems.
Onion or garlic	Can damage red blood cells and should be avoided.
Spices	May irritate the stomach.
Cooked bones nearby	Can splinter, obstruct, or injure the gut.

What to do after a braai mishap

Dogs often steal food when everyone is distracted. First remove remaining food and check whether bones, skewers, onion, garlic, sauces, or large quantities were involved.

Estimate how much was eaten.
Check whether the dog ate cooked bones, skewers, foil, or packaging.
Watch for vomiting, diarrhoea, belly pain, bloating, weakness, or restlessness.
Phone your vet if a small dog ate a lot, if bones were eaten, or if symptoms appear.
Do not give human medicine for pain or stomach upset.

Safer braai rules for dogs

Create a family rule before the fire is lit: no feeding from the braai, no bones, and no unattended plates at dog height.

Give the dog a safe chew or measured dog treat away from the braai area.
Use bins with secure lids.
Teach guests not to share fatty offcuts.
Keep children from feeding sausage pieces under the table.

When to call a vet urgently

Call a vet urgently if your dog ate bones, skewers, large amounts of boerewors, onion or garlic-heavy food, or shows repeated vomiting, severe diarrhoea, pain, collapse, bloating, or distress.

Frequently asked questions

Can dogs eat a small piece of plain boerewors?

It is better not to offer it. Even small pieces can encourage begging, and ingredients vary widely.

Are cooked bones from a braai safe?

No. Cooked bones can splinter or cause obstruction and should not be given to dogs.

What if my dog stole one sausage?

Remove the rest, check for bones or packaging, monitor closely, and phone a vet if your dog is small, unwell, or ate a large amount.