Can Dogs Eat Birdseed?

As a dog owner, you must always be keen on what your fur baby eats. Most canines are not picky eaters; for them, if it looks like food, it is definitely food. This behavior can be dangerous, as they may eat something they shouldn’t.

Can dogs eat birdseed? If you keep birds, you need bags of birdseed to feed them. Your furry friend may snack on spilled seeds, making you wonder whether they will be alright.

An in-depth look at dogs eating birdseed will answer your questions on this subject.

Is Birdseed Safe For Dogs?

Birdseed refers to the mixture of seeds such as sunflower, millet, and corn that you feed to birds. Some birdseed packs may contain fruits and nuts like raisins, dried fruit, peanuts, and more.

Dogs eating birdseed is common, seeing that they eat dirt and other material on the ground. However, your dog should not eat birdseed. A little snacking is not bad, but you should discourage this behavior due to associated hazards.

The following are some of the dangers of dogs eating birdseed.

Aflatoxin Poisoning

Old seeds or those exposed to damp conditions are breeding grounds for fungi, which can produce aflatoxins. When consumed, these toxins can harm your dog, with the liver being the most affected organ.

Signs of aflatoxin poisoning in dogs include vomiting, diarrhea, tummy upsets, restlessness, and jaundice. In severe cases, your dog may succumb to the overconsumption of affected seeds. However, if you act fast, you may save it.

Risk Of Salmonella

Birds are salmonella vectors; your dog may contract this microbe from bird droppings. Salmonella in dogs presents itself in diarrhea, nausea, anorexia, and abdominal discomfort. Your canine can also spread this microbe to your household, making you sick.

Toxic Additives

Birdseed may have additives that are toxic to dogs. The ones to watch out for include raisins and macadamia nuts. Additionally, be keen on peanuts if your dog has allergies.

Problems From Overeating Birdseed

Overeating birdseed can bring issues such as bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. Moreover, your canine may experience digestive problems if it has a sensitive gastrointestinal system.

How To Stop Your Dog From Eating Birdseed?

Seeing the dangers of your dog eating birdseed, it is wise to prevent them. You can start by placing the birdfeeder in an area your pup cannot access. You can fence the feeding area or use high spots for flying birds.

Training will instill discipline in your dog; thus, it won’t eat birdseed. Get a good trainer to help with this.
At times, your dog may eat birdseed because it is hungry. Give it enough food to keep it away from the birdfeeder.

Moreover, canines eating birdseed and other nonfood items may signify pica syndrome, a mental illness. Consult your pet doctor to know what is ailing your furry friend.

Takeaway: Birdseed Is Strictly For Birds

Your dog should never eat birdseed, even if it is not harmful in small servings. This birdfeed presents many dangers to your dog. Prevention is the way to go, where you bank on measures like fencing the bird feeding area to keep your pup away.

Call your vet if your dog accidentally ate birdseed and is acting up.