Can dogs eat marshmallows? You may be asking this because your dog accidentally ate a marshmallow you dropped on the floor, or maybe you want to share a sweet snack with your pooch. Humans can eat marshmallows, so are they also safe for dogs? The short answer is no, dogs cannot eat marshmallows. If your dog eats one regular sugar marshmallow, they should be fine, but too much sugar can be harmful to your dog’s health. Some marshmallows also contain sweeteners that can be lethal for dogs if ingested.
POISONOUS INGREDIENTS IN MARSHMALLOWS
Marshmallows are typically made with corn syrup, gelatin, and vanilla. They can also contain sugar or starch-based ingredients like tapioca for bulkiness! Whether you buy prepackaged Kraft Jet-Puffed or make your own at home, dogs should not eat them because of all these things they have in them that could be bad for their digestive system. It’s important to keep your dog healthy by ensuring they get enough nutrients and exercise. What does this mean? It means you should feed them fresh, nutritious food in moderation! Fruits like apples or blueberries are fine so long as their natural sugars aren’t replaced with dangerous ones such as corn syrup.
Second, sweet treats can lead to obesity in canines, which causes a whole host of additional health problems. According to Krista Williams, DVM, and Robin Downing, DVM, at VCA Ark Animal Hospitals, obesity in dogs has been linked to higher rates of cancer, arthritis, and urinary tract issues. Not to mention a shorter life expectancy.
Finally, if you’re looking for a sugar-free option for your pup, think again. Artificial sweeteners and a popular ingredient in sugary treats called xylitol can cause major issues internally. As Banfield Pet Hospital notes, xylitol could cause low blood sugar and even liver failure if left untreated.
What Should I Do If My Dog Ate Marshmallows?
If you know for certain your dog ate marshmallows that contain xylitol, even if it was just one, contact your vet immediately. Depending on the number of marshmallows and how long it’s been since your dog ingested them, your vet may have you bring in your dog to induce vomiting.
If your dog ate sugar marshmallows, you should still check in with your vet about your dog’s well-being. If your dog got one mini sugar marshmallow off the ground that fell while you are baking, they should be okay. But if they ate anything more than that, then you should call your vet. Make sure you keep all human treats, especially sugary ones like marshmallows, up and away from your dog. If you tend to drop food, avoid marshmallows and any other food with xylitol when your dog is near.
ALTERNATIVES TO MARSHMALLOWS
Who doesn’t love to spoil their pup with a tasty treat during the holidays? There are tons of canine-friendly snacks made just for this time or whenever they deserve it that will leave them feeling good.
1. BARKBOX SPECIALTY PEANUTS TREATS
BarkBox and Peanuts have partnered up for some delectable dog treats this year. Sign up for a subscription or purchase a box to get some Good Beef Charlie Brown or Lucy’s Pulled Pork treats.
2. BONNE ET FILOU DOG MACARONS
They look like real French macarons, but are actually dog treats made with all-natural, human-grade ingredients. Honestly, they look so good, we might take a bite ourselves.
3. THE LAZY DOG COOKIE CO. MUTT MALLOWS
Unlike human marshmallows, these treats are full of antioxidants and real ingredients like oats, honey and whey. They taste like roasted vanilla so…get ready for your dog to fall head over paws.
4. EXCLUSIVELY DOG S’MORES SANDWICH CREMES
Participating in more outdoor activities this winter? Bonfires and s’mores are fun but keep your dog away from those ‘mallows and that chocolate! Feed her these instead.
