Short answer: Choose the format based on how you plan to use it: dried frikandels and mini sausages for walks and training, long-life sausage or steamed meat for cutting into pieces or mixing into food. Also choose a protein source that your dog tolerates well. Sausage and frikandels are safe as long as you give them in suitably sized pieces, count them as part of the daily diet and store them properly.
What is the difference between dog sausage, frikandels and mini sausages?
This collection contains five formats. They differ mainly in texture, how you portion them and how you store them. They are not long-lasting chews: a piece of sausage or frikandel is eaten quickly.
| Format | Texture | Handy for | Keep in mind |
|---|
| Frikandels by protein | Dried, firm | One at a time, on the go | Break into pieces for small dogs |
| Fish frikandels (fish collagen, Zee Mix) | Dried | Variety with fish | Same as for frikandels |
| Mini sausages | Dried | Training, in pieces | Large pack, store sealed |
| Long-life sausage (Canis and Naturis) | Soft, sliceable | Cubes as a reward or mixed into food | Keep refrigerated after opening |
| Steamed meat (KIVO) | Soft | Topper for food | Follow the storage advice on the packaging |
Which sausage or frikandel suits my dog?
Start with how you will use it. For training you want small pieces that are eaten quickly: mini sausages, frikandels cut into pieces or a training sausage such as Naturis Houdbaar Rund Training 400 gram. You will find more choice among the training treats. For a fussy eater or a dog that prefers soft food, long-life sausage and the steamed meat from KIVO are a logical choice.
Then look at the protein source:
- Sensitive stomach or suspected allergy: give one protein source at a time. Beef and chicken are often mentioned in connection with food allergies. Please note: according to the label, the dried frikandels with rabbit, horse, ostrich or venison have a base of beef meat meal, with at least 4 per cent of the named animal. If your dog reacts to beef, choose a product whose label lists a single different protein source.
- Mixed products: Canis Houdbare Worst Kip & Rund or Canis Frikandellen Zee Mix contain more than one source. Check the label if your dog reacts badly to something.
- Fish lovers: besides the fish frikandels, you will find more among the fish treats.
If you want to know when changing treats really helps with allergies, read grain-free dog treats and allergies.
Are sausages and frikandels safe for dogs?
Yes, as long as you get a few things right. Dried frikandels are firm. A dog that gulps its food can swallow a large piece whole, so break them into pieces for small dogs and fast eaters, and stay with your dog while it eats. Always provide fresh water. Never give sausage or frikandels meant for people: they are seasoned and salty and may contain onion or garlic.
For puppies, soft sausage in small cubes works best. Introduce a new treat gradually and stop if you notice vomiting, diarrhoea or itching. If the symptoms persist, see your vet. You can find more about what suits young dogs in the puppy collection.
How much sausage can you give your dog?
All treats together should provide roughly 10 per cent of daily energy. If you give lots of rewards, for example during a training session, give a little less of the main food. If you use sausage as part of a meal, it counts as food and you reduce the kibble accordingly. How much energy a sausage or frikandel provides varies by product; the label is what counts. You will find a calculation table in how many treats can a dog have per day.
Ingrid's tip: At the start of the day, cut the amount of sausage you want to give and put it in a sealed container. Whatever is in there is that day's treat budget. That way, you avoid adding extra slices without noticing.
How do you store dog sausage and frikandels?
Store dried frikandels and mini sausages in a dry, sealed container, out of the sun. Unopened long-life sausage can be kept outside the fridge; once cut, keep it covered in the fridge and use it within the period stated on the label. For steamed meat, always follow the storage advice on the packaging. Wash your hands after cutting and feeding.
Frequently asked questions
Can my dog have an ordinary frikandel or sausage?
No, preferably not. Sausages and frikandels for people contain salt, spices and sometimes onion or garlic. Choose a sausage made for dogs.
Can dog sausage be a complete meal?
That depends on the product. The label states whether it is a complete or a complementary pet food. Only a complete food can replace a meal.
Are frikandels suitable for puppies?
It's better to give a puppy soft sausage in small cubes. If you do choose a frikandel, break it into small pieces and stay with your puppy.
How long does opened sausage keep?
Keep it covered in the fridge and stick to the period stated on the label. If it smells or looks different, throw it away.
Sources
About the author
Ingrid Kooijman is the founder of Canis Snacks. She selects natural single-protein dog treats, sells them online and at markets in Brabant, and answers dog owners' questions about food and chews every day. Questions about these treats? Email info@canissnacks.com.
Not sure which treat suits your dog? Try the treat guide →
