The article explains that dogs should not eat mustard because it is toxic to them, primarily due to mustard seeds, which can cause gastroenteritis (inflammation of the stomach and intestines); store-bought varieties may also contain additional harmful ingredients. While a brief lick is unlikely to cause problems, larger amounts can be dangerous, and all forms—including yellow, Dijon, English, honey mustard, homemade versions, wild mustard, and mustard powder—should be avoided. Ingestion may lead to symptoms such as loss of appetite, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain, with smaller dogs being more susceptible, and owners are advised to contact a veterinarian if these signs appear.
Can Dogs Eat Mustard?
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30 October 2025
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Mustard is a popular condiment that’s often slathered onto burgers and hot dogs at barbecues and is prized for its flavours that range from sweet to spicy.
When you’re munching on your food covered in this tasty topping you may wonder, can my dog eat mustard on a burger or lick the mustardy leftovers on my plate?
Can dogs eat mustard?
No, you should never give your dog mustard, even if it is just a small amount on some table scraps, as it’s toxic for dogs. If they happen to lick a small bit off your plate, it’s unlikely to cause a problem, but if they have a large amount, it could cause a serious issue. All types of mustard should be avoided, including homemade mustard, wild mustard, English mustard, Dijon mustard, honey mustard, yellow mustard, and mustard powder.
Why is mustard so bad for dogs?
The reason why mustard is so bad for dogs is because it contains mustard seeds. Mustard seeds contain toxic compounds which can lead to gastroenteritis in dogs (inflammation of the stomach and/or intestinal tract). Additionally, supermarket-purchased mustard may contain other ingredients which could be harmful for your dog to consume.
Signs of mustard poisoning in dogs
If your dog has eaten mustard they may experience a negative reaction, so keep an eye out for the following symptoms:
• Loss of appetite
• Drooling
• Vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Abdominal pain
If you notice any of the above signs, contact your vet as soon as possible. It’s also worth noting that smaller dogs will need to eat less to experience a negative reaction than larger dogs.
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