No, dogs cannot eat marshmallows. Marshmallows contain harmful components which can be fatal to dogs. As a responsible and caring pet owner, it is best to skip marshmallows and opt for other healthy treats for your dog.
What are Marshmallows?
Marshmallows are a form of delicacy produced from sugar, water, and gelatin that has been whipped into a firm but soft consistency. It’s usually shaped into forms and coated with cornstarch before filling baked goods. The sugar confection is based on an ancient therapeutic treat prepared from the marshmallow plant Althaea officinalis.
The name “marshmallow” derives from the mallow plant species (Althaea officinalis), thriving in marshes and other moist regions throughout Europe, North Africa, and Asia. The stem and leaves of this plant are meaty, and the white blossom has five petals. Although the precise time when the marshmallows were developed is unknown,we can trace their history to 2000 BCE. The ancient Egyptians are claimed to have been the first to manufacture and utilize the plant’s root to treat coughs, sore throats, and wounds. The original marshmallows were made by cooking root pulp bits with honey until thick. Next, the mixture was thickened, filtered, chilled, and then utilized as desired.
Are Marshmallows Safe For Dogs?
No, marshmallows are not safe for dogs! Marshmallows are made with specific components harmful to dogs and cause severe health damage. The ingredients may even cause death. Therefore, there are no marshmallows that a dog can consume.
Why Are Marshmallows Bad For Dogs?
Marshmallows are poisonous for dogs due to the ingredients it is made with, which includes:
Sugar: Too much sweet is not recommended for dogs. Consequences of sugar consumption are:
Obesity
Diabetes
Weight gain
Heart issues
Hyperactivity
Cavity issues
Periodontal disease
Corn syrup and xylitol: Corn syrup and xylitol are toxic and poisonous for dogs. The consequences of consuming xylitol and corn syrup are:
Vomiting
Lethargy
Weakness
Depression
Staggering
Uncoordinated movement
Low blood sugar
Liver damage
Seizures
Tremors
Hypoglycemia
Pancreatitis
Hypoglycemia
Death
Cornstarch: Cornstarch is not toxic but unhealthy for dogs. Consequences of consuming cornstarch are:
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Gastrointestinal issues
Abdominal pain
Lack of appetite
Gelatin: Gelatin can cause several issues in dogs. Though they are considered safe for dogs, they are not necessarily healthy as per vets. The consequences of consuming gelatin are:
Heaviness in stomach
Bloating
Heartburn
Blenching
Allergies
Vanilla extract: Vanilla extracts is highly poisonous for dogs as it induces:
Diarrhea
Disorientation
Confusion
Slow heart rate
Lethargy
Dehydration
Damages respiratory and nervous system
Seizures
Death
Confectioners’ sugar: Confectioners’ sugar is harmful to your dogs. The damages it can cause are:
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Gas
Discomfort
Cardiovascular issues
Arthritis
Hip dysplasia
Obesity
Diabetes
High blood pressure
Hyperactivity
Disorientation
Seizures
Tremors
Coma
Tetrasodium Pyrophosphate (TSPP): Also known as sodium pyrophosphate or tetrasodium diphosphate, TSPP is a synthetic ingredient used as a protein modifier and a coagulant. Though it is gluten-free, ingesting TSPP into your dog’s food causes:
Nausea
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Inhalation of TSPP causes:
Nosebleed
Irritation in the respiratory tract
Chest pain
Cough
Artificial flavors: Artificial flavors added to marshmallows can harm your dog’s digestive system. It sickens your pet if not treated immediately.
Artificial colors: Artificial colors are harmful to dogs, leading to severe damage to organs and overall health. Dyes like Yellow 5 and 6, Blue 2, Red 40 are dangerous to dogs.
How Much Marshmallow to Feed Your Dog?
As we already know that marshmallows are toxic and poisonous for dogs. They should not eat even a single piece! Consuming marshmallows can be dangerous to your dog.
What If My Dog Ate Marshmallows?
Contact your veterinarian right away if your dog ate xylitol-containing marshmallows, even if it was just one. Depending on how many marshmallows your dog ate and how late it’s been there since he ate them, your vet may ask you to bring him in to induce vomiting.
Even if your dog ate sugar marshmallows, you should still consult your veterinarian regarding their health.
The symptoms he will show after consuming xylitol, and sugar marshmallows are:
Diarrhea
Hyperactivity
Disorientation
High/Low blood pressure
Lack of appetite
Alternatives To Marshmallows
It is always best to opt for healthier alternatives for your dog. Below mentioned are healthy treats for your dog:
No, puppies cannot eat marshmallows, as they are more vulnerable to toxicity than dogs. In addition, marshmallows can harm the puppies causing death within hours of consuming marshmallows.
Can dogs eat toasted marshmallows?
No, dogs cannot eat toasted marshmallows for the very same reason why marshmallows are not safe for dogs! The components like xylitol, sugar, confectioners’ sugar, corn syrup, gelatin can cause significant harm to your dog.
Can dogs eat chocolate-covered marshmallows?
Absolutely not! Chocolate-covered marshmallows should be skipped at any cost as both chocolate and marshmallows are toxic and poisonous for your dog.
Final Thoughts
It is best not to treat your dog with marshmallows, thinking about safety and healthy life. Xylitol, corn syrup, gelatin, cornstarch, sugar, granulated, or confectioners’ sugar can do significant harm to your dog resulting in death. Instead, you can choose better alternatives like watermelons, mangoes, bananas, sweet potatoes, et cetera to keep your dog healthy and happy!
