Can Dogs Eat Chicken Noodle Soup? Vet-Approved Facts

Yes, dogs can eat plain, homemade chicken noodle soup made with dog-safe ingredients, but store-bought versions are generally unsafe due to high sodium levels and toxic additives like onions and garlic. Always remove skin, bones, and seasonings before serving.

When considering whether can dogs eat chicken noodle soup, the answer depends entirely on the ingredients and preparation method. While plain chicken and certain vegetables are safe for dogs, many common soup components pose serious health risks.

Understanding Chicken Noodle Soup Ingredients for Dogs

Commercial chicken noodle soup contains several ingredients that make it unsuitable for canine consumption. Let's break down the components:

Ingredient	Safe for Dogs?	Reason
Plain cooked chicken	Yes	Excellent protein source when boneless and skinless
Chicken broth (store-bought)	No	Excessively high sodium content (300-800mg per serving)
Onions and garlic	No	Causes hemolytic anemia, even in small amounts
Plain noodles/pasta	Yes (in moderation)	Provides carbohydrates but offers little nutritional value
Carrots and celery	Yes	Safe vegetables that add fiber and nutrients
Seasonings and herbs	Most no	Many contain toxic compounds for dogs

The Dangers of Store-Bought Chicken Noodle Soup

Most canned or packaged chicken noodle soup for dogs contains dangerously high sodium levels. A single serving can contain 300-800mg of sodium, far exceeding the recommended daily intake for dogs.

Understanding the stark difference in sodium levels is crucial for canine safety. The following comparison shows measured values from authoritative sources:

Product	Sodium per Serving	Serving Size	Source
Campbell's Red & White Chicken Noodle Soup	890 mg	1/2 cup (125g)	Campbell's Nutrition
Swanson Chicken Broth (Original)	880 mg	1 cup (245g)	Swanson Broth
Homemade Chicken Broth (no salt)	< 100 mg	1 cup (240ml)	AKC Guidelines

Excessive sodium causes:

• Dehydration and increased thirst
• Potential kidney strain
• Digestive upset including vomiting and diarrhea
• In severe cases, sodium ion poisoning

Perhaps more concerning are the onion and garlic derivatives found in nearly all commercial soups. These allium family members damage red blood cells, leading to hemolytic anemia. According to the ASPCA's 2022 Animal Poison Control Center report, onion and garlic exposures accounted for 2.8% of all plant-related toxicity cases, ranking as the 6th most common plant hazard (ASPCA, 2022). Symptoms may not appear for several days but can be life-threatening.

When Homemade Chicken Soup Benefits Dogs

Veterinarians often recommend homemade chicken soup for dogs with digestive issues. The warm broth helps with hydration while the easily digestible protein supports recovery. This is particularly helpful when:

• Your dog has an upset stomach
• During recovery from illness
• As a temporary appetite stimulant
• To encourage hydration in sick dogs

Important Context and Limitations

Therapeutic use requires strict adherence to safety boundaries:

• Health exclusions: Contraindicated for dogs with kidney disease, heart conditions, or pancreatitis (per WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines)
• Duration limit: Maximum 48-hour administration period to prevent nutritional imbalances
• Portion control: Must not exceed 10% of daily caloric intake (Cummings Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University)
• Preparation requirement: Fat must be completely skimmed to avoid gastrointestinal complications

Creating Safe Chicken Noodle Soup for Your Dog

If you're wondering how to make chicken noodle soup for dogs, follow these vet-approved guidelines:

1. Use boneless, skinless chicken breast or thigh
2. Cook chicken in plain water (no seasoning)
3. Add dog-safe vegetables like carrots and celery
4. Include plain cooked pasta or rice in moderation
5. Avoid ALL seasonings, especially onion and garlic powder
6. Cool completely before serving
7. Remove excess fat from broth

For dogs with sensitive stomachs, a simpler version with just boiled chicken and rice may be preferable. The best chicken broth for dogs is homemade with minimal ingredients and no added salt.

What to Do If Your Dog Ate Regular Chicken Noodle Soup

If your dog consumed store-bought soup, monitor for these symptoms of potential toxicity:

• Weakness or lethargy (sign of anemia)
• Pale gums
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Increased heart rate
• Red-tinged urine

Contact your veterinarian immediately if you notice these signs, especially after consumption of soup containing onions or garlic. Even small amounts can be dangerous over time. When asking what happens if my dog ate chicken noodle soup, the severity depends on the ingredients and your dog's size.

Healthier Alternatives to Chicken Noodle Soup

Instead of traditional chicken noodle soup, consider these safer options:

• Plain chicken and rice (boiled with no seasoning)
• Low-sodium bone broth (specifically made for dogs)
• Pumpkin and chicken stew (pure pumpkin provides fiber)
• Vegetable broth with dog-safe ingredients only

Many pet stores now offer commercial dog broth products formulated specifically for canine nutritional needs without harmful additives. Always check labels for onion, garlic, and excessive sodium.

Special Considerations for Puppies and Senior Dogs

Puppies have more sensitive digestive systems, so can puppies eat chicken noodle soup requires extra caution. Introduce new foods gradually and in smaller portions. Senior dogs may have kidney issues that make even moderate sodium levels problematic.

Dogs with pre-existing conditions like heart disease, kidney problems, or hypertension require particularly low-sodium diets. For these dogs, even homemade versions need careful preparation with minimal natural sodium from ingredients.

Can dogs eat chicken noodle soup from the can?

No, store-bought canned chicken noodle soup is generally unsafe for dogs due to high sodium content and toxic ingredients like onions and garlic. Even 'low sodium' versions typically contain too much salt for dogs and may include harmful additives.

How much homemade chicken soup can I give my dog?

For medium-sized dogs, limit to 1-2 tablespoons per 10 pounds of body weight per meal. Small dogs should receive no more than 1-2 tablespoons total, while large dogs can have up to 1/4 cup. Always serve cooled and as part of a balanced diet, not as a complete meal replacement.

What are the signs of onion poisoning in dogs?

Symptoms of onion poisoning include weakness, lethargy, pale gums, rapid breathing, elevated heart rate, vomiting, diarrhea, and red-tinged urine. These may not appear until 24-72 hours after consumption. Even small amounts can be dangerous, so contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog consumed soup containing onions or garlic.

Is chicken broth good for dogs with upset stomachs?

Yes, plain homemade chicken broth (without salt, onions, or garlic) can help dogs with upset stomachs by providing hydration and easily digestible nutrients. The warm liquid soothes the digestive tract and encourages drinking, which is crucial when dogs are sick. However, it should only be given in moderation and as part of veterinary-recommended care.

Can I give my dog chicken noodle soup when they're sick?

Plain homemade chicken soup without harmful ingredients can benefit sick dogs by providing hydration and easily digestible protein. However, avoid store-bought versions due to high sodium and toxic ingredients. For dogs with vomiting or diarrhea, consult your veterinarian first, as some illnesses require specific dietary management.