Monosodium glutamate, or MSG, is a popular flavor enhancer often found in human foods like snacks, canned soups, and frozen meals. But what about MSG for dogs? Did you know MSG might also be lurking in your dog’s food?

Often listed under vague terms like hydrolyzed protein or natural flavoring, MSG can be difficult to spot on labels, making it an unintentional part of your dog’s diet. And as you'll see below, it comes with risks.

While MSG is approved as “generally recognized as safe” (GRAS) for human consumption, its effects on dogs raise significant concerns.

Today, I'm diving into the hidden dangers of MSG in pet foods, from neurological impacts to organ damage, and giving you actionable tips to help you protect your dog’s health.

What Is MSG And How Does It Work?

MSG is a synthetic additive derived from L-glutamic acid, an amino acid naturally found in protein-rich foods like meat, fish, and tomatoes. Unlike its natural counterpart, MSG is manufactured through a fermentation process, creating a potent compound designed to enhance flavors in processed foods.

Although MSG adds a savory “umami” flavor to food, its artificial nature and high concentration make it vastly different from the natural glutamate found in whole foods. Its use in pet food is particularly concerning because dogs can’t tell us when something makes them feel unwell.

MSG operates as an excitotoxin, which overstimulates certain neurotransmitters in the brain. It tricks the brain into perceiving food as more delicious, often leading to overconsumption.

In dogs, this overactivation can disrupt natural signals, such as leptin’s cue that the body is full, leading to overeating and weight gain. Over time, repeated exposure can strain metabolic processes, potentially contributing to obesity and other chronic conditions like diabetes.

Potential Risks Of MSG For Dogs

There are other more specific problems with MSG for dogs ... especially when it comes to the brain and other organs:

Neurological And Systemic Damage

MSG’s ability to overstimulate neurotransmitters makes it particularly harmful to the brain. In dogs, excessive consumption has been linked to seizures and other neurological issues.

Excitotoxins like MSG can damage neurons, contributing to long-term issues such as behavioral changes or learning difficulties.

Veterinarian studies also suggest that prolonged exposure to MSG could aggravate or trigger neurological diseases, including conditions similar to Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s in humans. While these effects may take years to surface, the cumulative damage to a dog’s brain can be significant.

Organ Damage And Toxicity

MSG doesn’t just harm the brain—it can negatively impact the liver, kidneys, and other organs. Studies on animals have shown that consistent exposure to MSG leads to liver inflammation and fatty deposits, both of which compromise overall organ function.

The kidneys, which filter toxins from the bloodstream, are also at risk of being overburdened by MSG. When paired with the cumulative toxicity of other processed food ingredients, MSG can significantly accelerate the progression of organ dysfunction in dogs.

Bottom line? Even low doses of MSG, when consumed regularly, can contribute to long-term health deterioration.

Signs Of And Symptoms Of MSG Toxicity In Dogs

How can you tell if your dog's eaten MSG?

Dogs exposed to MSG may exhibit symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, and lethargy. In more severe cases, you might notice loss of coordination, tremors, or even seizures—signs of neurological distress caused by MSG’s excitotoxin effects on the brain.

While acute reactions can seem alarming, chronic exposure is equally dangerous. Long-term MSG intake has been linked to behavioral changes, metabolic issues, and organ damage, making vigilance essential for pet owners.

The subtle effects of MSG toxicity can be easy to miss because dogs can’t vocalize discomfort from headaches or dizziness. Symptoms like increased thirst or fatigue are often dismissed as minor or unrelated to diet, allowing the problem to persist undetected.

That's why it's so important to monitor dietary ingredients closely, especially if your dog is experiencing unexplained health issues. Regular vet check-ups and discussions about diet can help catch and address any underlying MSG-related concerns.

Hidden Sources Of MSG In Dog Food

MSG rarely appears on ingredient labels under its full name, making it tricky to spot. Common disguises include “natural flavoring,” “hydrolyzed protein,” “yeast extract,” or terms like “sodium caseinate” and “soy protein isolate.”

Even if you’re diligent about reading labels, the pet food industry often uses vague terms that obscure the presence of MSG. Learning these aliases is key to avoiding unintended exposure.

There are a few other specific foods and products where MSG tends to lurk:

Produce And Dairy In Pet Foods

AuxiGro, a crop treatment that includes MSG, is often used on produce like lettuce, tomatoes, and peppers. When these vegetables make their way into dog food—particularly in processed or low-cost brands—they bring residual MSG along.

Dairy products like processed cheese or milk powder, which are sometimes added to pet foods or used as treats, are another hidden source of MSG. While seemingly harmless, these ingredients can contribute to cumulative exposure in your dog’s diet.

Coprophagia Products

Products designed to deter stool-eating behavior (coprophagia) frequently rely on MSG as a key ingredient. Listed as “monosodium glutamate” or other hidden terms, these products not only fail to address the root cause of stool-eating but also introduce additional toxins into your dog’s system.

To combat stool-eating without MSG exposure, opt for natural digestive enzyme supplements or work with a vet to address dietary imbalances.

How To Avoid MSG In Your Dog’s Diet

The simplest way to protect your dog from MSG is to feed a fresh, whole-food diet. Focus on raw or lightly cooked meats, organic vegetables, and minimally processed foods to eliminate hidden toxins.

Homemade treats are another great alternative to commercial snacks that may contain MSG. By preparing your dog’s meals and snacks at home, you ensure complete control over the ingredients and can prioritize their long-term health.

Understanding how MSG is labeled is critical for making informed choices. So watch out for terms like “natural flavor,” “autolyzed yeast,” or “textured protein,” as these often indicate the presence of MSG or its derivatives.

Lastly, look for brands that emphasize transparency and avoid vague ingredient lists. Companies committed to natural, minimally processed pet food often highlight the absence of harmful additives like MSG on their packaging.

FAQ

Can I give my dog MSG? It’s best to avoid giving your dog MSG, as it can lead to adverse effects like vomiting, diarrhea, and neurological issues over time. Processed free glutamic acid, found in flavour enhancers like MSG, is commonly hidden in foods and may harm your dog’s health.

How much MSG is toxic to dogs? While there’s no established safe amount, excessive MSG consumption can cause immediate symptoms like loose stools, lethargy, and seizures in dogs. Long-term exposure to hidden sources like hydrolyzed vegetable protein and dairy products can increase the risk of chronic conditions like kidney disease.

Can MSG cause seizures in dogs? Yes, MSG has been linked to seizures in dogs due to its impact on brain neurotransmitters, as it overstimulates the nervous system. Studies have shown that additives like MSG and processed free glutamic acid may trigger neurological adverse effects in sensitive pets.

Does dog food have MSG? Many dog foods contain MSG hidden under names like hydrolyzed vegetable protein, natural flavoring, or autolyzed yeast. Even some dairy products like cottage cheese and vegetables such as pinto beans used in pet foods may contain MSG, making label scrutiny essential for pet owners.