✓ Reviewed against PDSA, Blue Cross & Animal PoisonLine guidance · Last reviewed: 2026-07
Can dogs eat soy sauce?
The full picture
Soy sauce is one of the saltiest common kitchen ingredients — around 900 mg of sodium per tablespoon. A single tablespoon can cause symptoms of salt toxicity in a small dog, and larger amounts can be genuinely dangerous. Asian takeaways often contain enough soy sauce to cause issues. A few drops licked from a plate probably isn't an emergency, but make fresh water available and monitor. Low-sodium soy sauce is still salty enough to be problematic. Tamari, oyster sauce, teriyaki sauce, and fish sauce all have the same warning.
If your dog has already eaten soy sauce
Soy sauce is extremely high in salt. Call your vet or Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 if your dog has eaten more than a tiny amount — salt toxicity is rapid.
Risks to watch for
- Salt poisoning
- Excessive thirst and urination
- Tremors and seizures in severe cases
- Kidney strain
Safe portion size
None.
Safer alternatives
- Plain cooked meat
Want to check the E-numbers and additives in this food? Our food ingredient checker covers allergens, vegan status, and clean-label information.
While you're checking what your dog can safely eat, make sure their flea and worm protection is up to date too.