Blood sausage

What is black pudding?

Blood sausage is a sausage made from fresh or cured blood, usually from pigs. The blood is mixed with pre-cooked rinds, bacon, meat and spices such as salt, pepper, marjoram, thyme, allspice and ginger to form a paste and filled into sausage casings or artificial casings. The sausages are then cooked in boiling water or steam and sometimes cold-smoked. Blood sausage is characterized by the fact that it can be cut when cold, which is due to the proportion of coagulated blood protein and/or the solidified gelatinous mass of the blood pulp.

Blood sausage is a traditional recipe for sausage production because the blood obtained during slaughter can be used for food production. In modern slaughter processing, however, blood is a by-product and is only used to a limited extent in sausage production. Blood sausage is considered a specialty of German cuisine, but there are also similar types of sausage in other countries such as France, Spain, Austria, Switzerland and Trinidad and Tobago.

What are the benefits of black pudding for dogs?

Black pudding can have several benefits for dogs if it is fed in moderation. For one thing, black pudding contains a lot of iron, which is important for the formation of red blood cells. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia, which can manifest itself in symptoms such as tiredness, weakness, pale mucous membranes or shortness of breath. On the other hand, black pudding also contains other nutrients such as protein, fat, vitamin A, vitamin B12 and zinc, which are important for dogs' health. Protein is the building block for muscles, skin, hair and nails. Fat provides energy and supports the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins. Vitamin A is important for eyesight and skin health. Vitamin B12 is important for nerve function and the formation of DNA. Zinc is important for the immune system and wound healing.

Blood sausage can therefore be a tasty change for dogs, providing them with some important nutrients. However, there are a few things to consider before giving your dog black pudding.

What are the disadvantages of black pudding for dogs?

Blood sausage also has some disadvantages for dogs that should not be ignored. For one thing, black pudding contains a lot of salt and spices, which can be harmful to dogs. Salt can lead to an increased thirst and need for water, which in turn can overload the kidneys. Spices such as pepper or allspice can lead to stomach irritation or diarrhea. On the other hand, black pudding also contains a lot of fat and calories, which can lead to obesity or pancreatitis. Obesity can lead to various health problems such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease or joint problems. Pancreatitis is a painful and life-threatening condition caused by an overproduction of digestive enzymes that attack the pancreas and other organs.

Blood sausage can therefore also pose some risks for dogs that should not be ignored. You should therefore only give your dog small amounts of black pudding and pay attention to the quality and origin of the sausage. In addition, you should always observe your dog's reaction to black pudding.