Most pet owners know that candy and lollipops are full of sugar and therefore aren’t a healthy option for a dog. But what if your child decides to give their pet a lick of a lollipop? Or perhaps your child’s sticky face was too temping for your dogs, and he decided to steal some candy? Dogs can not eat lollipops. At least, they sure should not be given one on purpose.
This article will answer the question, ‘can dogs eat lollipops?’ We’ll tell you why it’s never a good idea to let your dog eat candy or lollipops.
What if my dog has eaten a lollipop?
Young children should be taught not to give dogs any treats. Dogs are often described as man’s best friend, and it’s understandable that a child would want to share some treats they’ve been given, such as a lollipop or candy, with their pet. This is never a good idea both for hygiene reasons and for the health of your dog.
You’ve probably already figured out that candy isn’t healthy for dogs. If your dog has accidentally eaten a lollipop as a one off, likely, it won’t do him any harm. However, you should check the ingredients on the packet as sugar free lollipops or candies contain an ingredient called xylitol that’s toxic to dogs. If your dog’s eaten any sugar-free suckers, you should immediately contact your vet as xylitol can be fatal, even in small doses.
Lollipops are high in sugar
Lollipops that aren’t sugar free won’t do your dog any harm, as the base ingredient is likely to be gelatin, which is made from animal skin and bones. The main problem with lollipops and candy is that they are high in sugar and syrup, which is bad for dogs. Therefore, you shouldn’t knowingly give your dog a lollipop. Dogs that regularly consume high sugar treats and have been designed for humans are more likely to develop health problems such as obesity, which can lead to diabetes, heart conditions, and joint problems.
Can dogs eat candy?
-No-
Dogs shouldn’t be given lollipops, candy, or any other sugary foods. Sugar isn’t a natural part of the canine diet, and dogs have evolved to eat a diet that’s rich in protein. They should also eat minimal fat and carbohydrates. If you give your pet large quantities of foods that contain processed sugars, then your pet won’t be getting the nutrients he needs and will also be at risk of obesity.
If your dog eats too much sugar, he will also be at risk of developing tooth decay. When dogs develop tooth decay, it can lead to more severe health conditions in the long run. The harmful bacteria caused by a rotten or infected tooth can cause heart disease, processed sugars can cause damage, so they are best avoided. If your dog has recently been given sugary treats, it’s a good idea to clean his teeth to prevent problems. You can buy some teeth cleaning chews or dog toothpaste from your local pet store.
As lollipops are a type of hard candy, they shouldn’t be given to dogs as they could prove to be a choking hazard. Some lollipops may contain ingredients that your dog could be allergic to, such as soy, nuts, or dairy. While these ingredients might not be in the lollipop, they could have been manufactured in a facility that also uses allergens in other products. This can cause issues for some dogs that have sensitive stomachs or food allergies.
Conclusion: Dogs can not eat lollipops
Not all dogs would eat a lollipop or candy if it were offered to them, but many would, especially if they have been watching a human member of their family enjoying a lollipop. It’s a wise idea to choose a healthier snack or treat for your dog rather than giving him candies.
A small amount of candy or a lick of a lollipop is unlikely to harm your dog, so there’s probably nothing to worry about if your dog has accidentally eaten a lollipop. However, you should make sure that the lollipop wasn’t sugar free as these contain a substance called xylitol that’s toxic to dogs. If you’re worried your dog may have eaten a sugar free candy you should contact your vet for help and advice.
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