No, dogs cannot eat candy. Candy is made of sugar, artificial sweeteners like xylitol, added colors, and preservatives. These ingredients and components in candy are harmful to canines. As a prudent pet parent, you must not offer your dog candy.
Table of Contents
What Is Candy?
Candy, often known as sweet treats or lollies, is a delicious confection primarily made of sugar. Sugar delicacy refers to sweet treats like choco, bubble gum, or sugary candy.
Why Is Candy Bad For Dogs?
Candy is bad for dogs due to the ingredients present in it. Therefore, candy is prohibited for dogs as it can cause various health hazards. Here we have listed why and how candy is bad for dogs:
Sugar: Natural sugars through carbs are not harmful to dogs. However, table sugar and powdered sugar are detrimental to dogs. The consequences of consuming sugar are:
Obesity
Vomiting
Gas
Diarrhea
Bloat
Diabetes
Fat
Weight gain
Joint issues
Hip dysplasia
Lethargy
Hyperactivity
Cardiovascular issues
Fatigue
Drowsiness
Xylitol/Corn Syrup: Xylitol and corn syrup are dangerous for dogs as they are artificial sweeteners added to candy. They are strictly prohibited for dogs to consume. The consequences of consuming these elements are:
Chocolate/Caffeine: Candies contain chocolate; hence, they contain caffeine. And caffeine has theobromine in it. Consumption of which can cause harm to dogs. The consequences of consuming caffeine are:
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Convulsions
Tremors
Seizures
Muscle cramps
Rapid heart rate
Stomach issues
Lack of coordination
Abdominal pain
Distress in urinating
Pancreatitis
Raisins: Raisins and grapes are highly toxic for dogs. The consequences of raisin consumption are:
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Dizziness
Wobbly walking
Restlessness
Stomach pain
Abdominal issues
Dehydration
Loss of appetite
Gastrointestinal issues
Kidney failure
Rapid heart rate
Tremors
Seizures
Coma
Death
Choking hazard: While chewing a small hard candy, a dog may accidentally gulp down due to its slippery nature. Hence, swallowing it results in choking.
Intestinal Obstruction: Candy wrappers can create blockages in the esophagus and the intestinal tract. The consequences of consuming candies with wrappers are:
Throat injury
Intestinal injury
Choking
Coughing
Whining
Throat ache
Abdominal pain
Digestive issues
How Much Candy To Feed My Dog?
Offering candies/chocolates/choco chip cookies to dogs is not a good idea. Many sources will state that ten gms of candies won’t affect dogs, but the best is not to offer. This practice can kill your dog. Therefore, no amount of candies should be fed to your dog.
What If Dogs Ate Candy?
If your dog consumes candy accidentally, first check what candy he has eaten and how much quantity. Next you will have to visit the vet. The symptoms which will appear after your dog consumes candy is:
Vomiting
Lack of coordination
Diarrhea
Abdominal pain
Tremors
Seizures
Take your pooch to the veterinarian to diagnose the issues, and follow as prescribed. Keep candies out of your dog’s reach.
Alternatives To Candy
Always choose healthier alternatives for your dog. Here we have listed the alternatives for your dog:
No, puppies cannot eat candies. Candies are harmful to dogs to eat. Candies have xylitol and corn syrup which can cause death in dogs.
Can dogs eat raisin candies?
No. Raisins are harmful to dogs. They may cause choking hazards. Therefore, dogs should not eat raisin candies.
Can dogs eat chocolate candies?
No, chocolate candies have theobromine content which can be fatal to dogs.
Final Thoughts
Coming to the end of the article, we can conclude by saying that candies are harmful to dogs. Candies contain xylitol, sugar, preservatives, etc. Never share candies with your dog. Remember to keep any candies or chocolates away from your dog’s reach. Always choose alternative options which are healthy for dogs. While giving your dog a treat, remember the 10% rule. Ensure a healthy and happy life for your dog.
