Can Dogs Have Poppy Seeds – Learn The Real Truth

If you’re an avid dog owner, then you’ve probably wondered if it’s safe for your furry friend to eat poppy seeds. After all, they are a type of seed that is often used in baked goods and other recipes.

But, can dogs have poppy seeds and experience the benefits associated with this nutritious plant?

In this blog post, we’ll explore the real truth about whether or not poppy seeds are safe for dogs, and what to do if your pet ingests them.

So, sit back, relax, and let us teach you everything you need to know!

Can Dogs Have Poppy Seeds? The Real Truth You Should Know

Nutritionally speaking, poppy seeds are a good source of protein, fiber, and essential minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, and zinc. They also contain linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid that is beneficial for the skin and coat.

In very small amounts, poppy seeds are not harmful to dogs. However, it’s important to note that poppy seeds can contain trace amounts of opiates, such as morphine and codeine. 

In large quantities, these substances can be toxic to dogs and may cause serious health problems.

Why Are Poppy Seeds Bad for Dogs?

Poppy seeds come from the opium poppy (Papaver somniferum), and while they’re safe for humans to eat, they can be poisonous to dogs.

The seeds contain a very small amount of opium, which can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation in dogs. 

In severe cases, it can also lead to tremors, seizures, and death.

What Is the Cause of Poppy Seed Poisoning in Dogs?

Poppy-seed poisoning in dogs is caused by the ingestion of poppy seeds that contain a small amount of opium. Opium is a natural narcotic that can be found in the unripe seed pods of the opium poppy. It’s also what gives poppy seeds their nutty flavor.

Although the amount of these narcotics in poppy seeds is very small, it can be enough to cause poisoning in dogs.

Poppy-seed poisoning usually occurs when a dog ingests a large number of seeds, or when the seeds are concentrated, such as in poppy seed tea. 

Poisoning can cause vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, tremors, and seizures.

6 Symptoms of Poppy Poisoning in Dogs

As mentioned, poppy poisoning in dogs can cause a wide range of symptoms, some of which are more serious than others. The most common symptoms include:

• Lack of appetite

This is usually the first symptom that owners notice. Your dog may stop eating their food or seem uninterested in meals. Similarly, they may also start to lose weight.

• Depression

Dogs with poppy poisoning may appear depressed or lethargic. They may also sleep more than usual and have a decreased interest in playing. Furthermore, they may seem listless and have a hard time standing up.

• Weakness

As the poison starts to affect their nervous system, your dog may start to experience weakness in its limbs. This may cause them to stumble or have a hard time walking. In severe cases, they may collapse.

• Trembling

Poppy seeds contain a small amount of opium, which can cause tremors when ingested in large quantities. These tremors may start out small, but they can get worse over time and may eventually lead to seizures.

• Breathing difficulties

One of the more serious symptoms of poppy poisoning is difficulty breathing. This may be due to the depressant effects of opium on the respiratory system. In severe cases, it can lead to coma and death.

• Excessive whining

Poppy seeds can also cause changes in your dog’s behavior. They may start to whine or bark more than usual, or they may become agitated and restless.

If you notice any of these symptoms in your dog, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately. Poppy poisoning is a serious condition that can be fatal if not treated

What You Should Do if Your Dog Eats Poppy Seeds?

If your dog has ingested poppy seeds, the best thing to do is call your veterinarian. Poppy seeds can be toxic to dogs and may cause an upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea.

If your dog has a history of gastrointestinal issues, the poppy seeds may also worsen these conditions. In some cases, poppy seeds can also cause seizures.

What To Do if Your Dog Ate Small Amount of Poppy Seeds by Accident

If your dog has eaten a small amount of poppy seeds by accident, the best thing to do is watch them closely for any signs of illness.

Most dogs will not experience any ill effects from eating a small number of poppy seeds. However, some dogs may be more sensitive to the toxins in poppy seeds and may develop an upset stomach or diarrhea.

If your dog does develop any symptoms, it’s important to call your veterinarian and seek medical care.

What To Do if Your Dog Ate Large Amount of Poppy Seeds by Accident

If your dog has eaten a large amount of poppy seeds by accident, it’s important to seek medical care immediately. Poppy seeds can be toxic to dogs and may cause an upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, and tremors.

In severe cases, poppy seeds can also cause seizures and respiratory failure. If your dog has ingested a large amount of poppy seeds, it’s important to call your veterinarian or local emergency animal hospital right away.

How To Treat Poppy Poisoning in Dogs

If your dog is experiencing any symptoms of poppy poisoning, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately. This is a serious condition that can be fatal if not treated.

There are other ways to treat poppy poisoning, but the most effective way is through veterinarian care. These include:

• Administering activated charcoal by your vet

This will help to bind the toxins in the poppy seeds and prevent them from being absorbed into your dog’s system. It’s important to give activated charcoal within two hours of ingestion for it to be effective.

• Induce vomiting

If your dog has ingested a large amount of poppy seeds, your vet may induce vomiting to prevent further absorption of the toxins.

This is usually done by giving your dog a small amount of hydrogen peroxide. However, it’s important to only induce vomiting if directed by a veterinarian, as it can be dangerous if not done correctly.

• Keep him calm

If your dog is agitated, it can increase the absorption of the toxins in the poppy seeds. It’s important to keep your dog calm and quiet to prevent further absorption. Do things like put on some soft music, give them calming treats or cover them with a blanket to help them relax.

Our Reader’s Popular Questions

What Happens if My Dog Eats Poppy Seeds?

If your dog eats poppy seeds, they may experience mild gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea. While poppy seeds are not toxic to dogs in small amounts, they can cause severe digestive issues.

Can a Dog Eat a Poppy Seed Muffin?

Poppy-seed muffins are not recommended for dogs to eat. The poppy seeds may cause digestive upset, and the ingredients in the muffin can be harmful to your dog. Chocolate, for example, is toxic to dogs.

Can Dogs Have Poppy Seed Cake?

No, dogs should not have poppy seed cake. The seeds can be toxic to them and cause gastrointestinal issues. It is best to avoid giving them any food with poppy seeds in it.

Conclusion

If eaten in large amounts, poppy seeds can be toxic to dogs and may cause an upset stomach, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and seizures. They may also experience poisoning if they consume too much.

However, if they accidentally eat a small amount, it is likely they will not experience any ill effects. If you are concerned about your dog’s health after they have eaten poppy seeds, it is best to seek medical attention from your veterinarian right away.

A vet will likely give your dog activated charcoal to bind the toxins in the poppy seeds and prevent them from being absorbed into their system. They may also induce vomiting to prevent further absorption of the toxins.

Did you ever have to deal with Poppy Seed poisoning? Let us know how your dog has dealt with it.