Can dogs eat ketchup?

Caution — onion and sugar heavy

Don't share. Most ketchup contains onion powder or extract, plus huge amounts of sugar and salt. A single lick isn't an emergency but repeat exposure adds up.

The full picture

Ketchup looks innocuous but is surprisingly problematic for dogs. Heinz and most UK ketchup brands contain onion powder or extract in the ingredients — a toxicity risk, especially with repeat exposure. The sugar content is very high (around 23%) and the salt content is substantial. A dog licking a bit of ketchup off a plate won't need an emergency vet, but it's a food to actively keep away from dogs. Tomato sauce, HP Sauce, and brown sauce all have similar problems.

Risks to watch for

  • Onion in almost all commercial ketchup
  • High sugar and salt
  • Xanthan gum and preservatives

Safe portion size

None recommended.

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Safer alternatives

  • Plain ripe tomato (small amount)

Unexpected vet bills can run into thousands

One emergency visit for food poisoning can cost £500–£5,000+. Compare UK pet insurance in 60 seconds.

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Related foods

Tomatoes caution Onions no Soy sauce no
Written and reviewed by
The Can My Dog Eat editorial team

Every food page is cross-checked against UK veterinary sources including the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS), the Animal PoisonLine, PDSA, and the Merck Veterinary Manual before publication. We do not accept paid placements from brands. If you spot an inaccuracy, please let us know — we take errors seriously and correct them quickly.

Spot an error? Report it

Checked against UK veterinary guidance — see our editorial standards and source list. If your dog has eaten something and you need urgent advice, call a vet or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000.

Important: This page is general information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different, and individual factors (age, breed, health conditions, medications) can change what's safe. If in doubt, always contact your vet — or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 in the UK.