Can Dogs Eat Gravy?

Can Dogs Eat Gravy?

Read time: 3 mins

15 Feb 2024

No, dogs should not eat gravy that is intended for human consumption.

Is Gravy Bad for Dogs?

Gravy, a savoury sauce typically made from meat juices, stock, and thickened with flour or cornstarch, can be a delicious addition to many human meals. 


However, when it comes to our pooches, it's essential to consider whether gravy is safe for them to consume. While some gravies may contain ingredients that are harmful to dogs, others can be a tasty and safe treat when served in moderation.

Can Dogs Have Bisto Gravy?

No, dogs should not eat bisto gravy.


While Bisto gravy may be tempting to share with your furry friend, it's important to note that many commercial gravy products, including Bisto, often contain ingredients like onions, garlic, and excessive salt, which can be harmful to dogs. These ingredients can lead to gastrointestinal upset, anaemia, or even more severe health issues if consumed in large quantities.

What Kind of Gravy Can Dogs Eat?

Gravy intended for human consumption should not be fed to dogs, due to added ingredients. However, gravy is often found in certain dog foods as an accompaniment is suitable for them to eat.

Human Gravy vs Gravy Found in Dog Food

When it comes to enhancing the flavour of meals, gravy serves as a beloved accompaniment for both humans and their canine companions. However, while the concept of gravy may seem universal, there are significant differences between the gravies designed for human consumption and those formulated for dogs

Ingredients

Human gravy typically contains ingredients like meat juices, broth, flour or cornstarch for thickening, herbs, spices, and sometimes onions or garlic for flavour enhancement.


Meanwhile, gravy in dog food typically contains ingredients specifically formulated for their consumption, such as meat broth, natural flavours, and thickeners like guar gum or xanthan gum. It avoids ingredients like onions, garlic, and excessive salt, which can be harmful to dogs.

Flavour profile

Human gravy is often rich, savoury, and flavourful, with a variety of herbs and spices used to enhance taste. 


On the other hand, dog food gravy is formulated to appeal to dogs' palates, with flavours that complement the main ingredients of the food, such as chicken, beef, or turkey.

Preparation

Human gravy is usually made by simmering meat drippings or broth with flour or cornstarch until thickened, then seasoned to taste.


Gravy in dog food is often manufactured as part of the overall recipe and may be added during the cooking or packaging process. It undergoes processing to ensure safety and stability in the product.

Nutritional content

Human gravy can vary widely in nutritional content depending on ingredients used. It may be high in fat, sodium, and calories, and may not provide significant nutritional benefits beyond flavour.


Gravy in dog food is designed to provide moisture, flavour, and palatability to the food, encouraging dogs to eat and ensuring they receive essential nutrients from their meals. It may also contain added vitamins and minerals to support overall canine health.