Can dogs eat salt (excess)?

No, excess salt is dangerous for dogs and can cause potentially fatal salt poisoning. Ingesting too much salt over a short period can lead to hypernatremia, or salt toxicosis, which pulls water out of the body's cells. It is most often linked to drinking sea water without access to fresh water, or eating large amounts of table salt or salty foods such as soy sauce. Smaller dogs are at higher risk, and the danger rises when fresh drinking water is not available.

Vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, lethargy, confusion, tremors, seizures, and in severe cases death; seek veterinary care immediately.

Call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 right away (a consultation fee may apply). Have the food, the amount, and your dog's weight ready. Do not induce vomiting without professional guidance.