Hot dogs are indeed precooked. Most store-bought hot dogs are fully cooked during processing, which includes cooking and smoking in controlled conditions. This means they can be eaten directly from the package, although heating them enhances flavor and texture and reduces the risk of bacterial contamination like Listeria. However, some specialty or artisanal hot dogs may be sold raw and need to be cooked fully before eating. For safety and best taste, it is recommended to heat hot dogs to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before consumption.