Yes, maple syrup is safe for dogs as long as it is fed in moderation. Maple syrup is an excellent source of zinc and manganese that boosts the immune system. However, maple syrup is rich in sugar. Dogs that devour excess sugar can get diabetes or obesity.
Avoid any varieties of maple syrups that include xylitol. This additive is poisonous to dogs and can lead to liver failure and hypoglycemia.
Table of Contents
What is Maple Syrup?
Maple syrup is a sticky, sugary, molasses-type seasoning obtained from the sap of maple trees. Gathering sap in containers by tapping trees, the sap is then heated in steam vessels.
The majority of maple syrup comes from Canada, New York State, Pennsylvania, Maine, Vermont.
Is Maple Syrup Safe For Dogs?
It is reliable for your dog to have pure maple syrup in moderation. Pure maple syrup gives numerous nutrients like Manganese, Zinc, and Vitamin B2 that help your dog’s overall wellness.
Why is Maple Syrup Good for Dogs?
Maple syrup is suitable for dogs as it contains the following nutrients:
Zinc
Helps to reduce inflammation
Functions with manganese to support the immune system
Manganese
Boosts reproductive system
Helps the body to utilize carbohydrates and proteins
Assists enzymes in the production of fatty acids and energy
Vitamin B2
Responsible for the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats into energy
Helps in the production of RBC, which transport nutrients and oxygen throughout the body
Maple syrup includes fewer calories than many other natural sweeteners, like honey, along with these nutritional perks. It may also contribute to antimicrobial and anti-diabetic properties, according to recent studies.
Why is Maple Syrup Bad for Dogs?
Generally, maple syrup is considered to be safe for dogs. But it can be dangerous if it is not served perfectly.
Sugar: The only dilemma with maple syrup is that it has sugar content. While sugar by itself is not toxic, prolonged over-consumption may cause severe diseases in your canine. The effect of sugar consumption in dogs may have short- or long-term implications; they include:
Short term effects of sugar consumption:
The immediate aftermath of consuming sugar is that it disrupts a dog’s digestive health, which leads to restlessness, diarrhea, and vomiting.
Long-term effect of sugar consumption:
Obesity
Stressed joints due to weight gain
Dental problems due to tooth decay
Arthritis
Diabetes.
Symptoms to Watch For:
If your canine consumes excess maple syrup regularly, check out for these diabetes symptoms:
Dehydration
Weight loss
Lethargy
Excessively thirsty
Increased urination
Artificial syrups can be harmful to your dog. They contain dangerous ingredients like xylitol (artificial sweetener) and other artificial colors and preservatives that can cause an allergic reaction to your dog. Also, it induces hypoglycemia in your dogs. The symptoms of xylitol toxicity are:
Vomiting
Excessive drooling
Seizures
Coma
Brain hemorrhage
Liver failure
Drowsiness
Loss of consciousness or slow to respond
We recommend you to stick on with pure maple syrup while feeding your dog.
How Much Maple Syrup Can You Serve Dogs?
Maple syrup should not be a part of your dog’s daily diet, and it must be 100% pure and served as an occasional treat.
What if my Dog ate jello?
If your canine consumes some maple syrup without xylitol, it will not have harmful effects on him. However, suppose your pet swallows a little more than the required quantity. In that case, he may develop a mild digestive disturbance due to the sugar content. Watch out for symptoms like:
Vomiting
Diarrhea.
A sudden withdrawal
Play bow stretch indicating pain in the stomach.
If you notice any of the above symptoms, ensure to give him plenty of water to drink to avoid dehydration. You can help ease your canine’s stomach upset by holding him off of food for about 12 hours for his gut to settle down. Once this is done, you can feed him a bland diet such as boiled ground beef and rice or 75% cooked white rice and 25% boiled chicken for three days which will help alleviate his symptoms. If you notice any symptoms of toxicity in your dog, ensure to contact your vet immediately.
Alternatives to Maple Syrup
A few healthy alternatives that your dogs can consume are:
Honey
Blackstrap molasses
Bite-sized carrots
Sliced celery
Cucumbers
Sweet potatoes
Blueberries
Apples
Conclusion
In conclusion, natural maple syrup can be given to your canines in moderation as an occasional treat because its nutrients are beneficial for dogs.
When feeding your dog maple syrup, the main thing to remember is to make sure that it is not sugar-free. Sugar-free foods include alternatives that can be highly poisonous to your dog.
Be cautious about the syrup you serve your dog. By doing so, you not only guarantee that your dog relishes the sweetness of maple syrup but also enjoy the nutritional perks the syrup provides.
