The answer is yes! Dogs can eat sesame seeds, and they provide fiber, calcium and vitamin E, among other nutrients, says Dr. Jessica Taylor, vice president of veterinary medicine at Petfolk. Just make sure your dog doesn’t get too many of these nutrients in their daily food and sesame treat. Too many sesame seeds can cause vomiting or diarrhea in dogs, she warns.
To see if your dog likes and tolerates sesame seeds, Dr. Taylor suggests feeding a small amount and then waiting 48 hours to see how your dog’s body responds. For picky eaters, sprinkling a few sesame seeds on food can add interest, says Dr. Taylor. Think of them as a supplement. She also recommends asking your veterinarian before adding any new foods to your dog’s diet.
Can dogs have sesame oil?
Yes, sesame oil is safe for dogs in only small amounts (see suggestion below) to prevent weight gain and stomach upset. It is not a nutritional requirement, but adds calories to your dog’s diet.
Can dogs eat tahini?
Almost all dogs love peanut butter. For those who don’t have one or upset their stomach, try
feed a small amount of tahini. Like peanut butter, tahini is high in fat and cholesterol, Dr. Taylor warns, so it should be eaten sparingly. High-fat foods add calories and lead to weight gain, which increases the risk of arthritis and other diseases, she adds.
Tahini is a Middle Eastern condiment paste made from sesame seeds with a consistency smoother than peanut butter. It is one of the main ingredients of hummus.
How Much Sesame Can Dogs Eat?
“Because sesame oil and tahini add calories and can lead to stomach upset, limit amounts to ½ teaspoon for small dogs under 25 pounds and 1 teaspoon for larger pets. 25 pounds,” says Dr. Taylor. However, she points out that there is no research to back up these numbers, as no foods are nutritionally required.