Can Dogs Eat Marshmallows?

Can Dogs Eat Marshmallows?

Dogs and human food don’t mix well. While your pup might beg for a taste of your snacks, it’s important to know that many human foods can be harmful to them. Marshmallows, despite their innocent appearance, contain ingredients that can be dangerous for dogs. Let’s dive into the details!

What’s So Bad About Marshmallows for Dogs?

The main issue lies in the sweeteners used to make marshmallows enticing to our taste buds. Xylitol, a common ingredient in marshmallows, is highly toxic to dogs. Even a small amount can be life-threatening.

But that’s not all. Marshmallows are loaded with sugar and various chemicals that can lead to pancreatitis, a painful inflammation of the pancreas. Regular consumption of sugary human foods can also increase the risk of obesity, diabetes, and other organ-related health problems in dogs.

In fact, marshmallows are one of the worst human foods for dogs because they combine several toxic substances into a small, innocent-looking package. While smaller dogs are more susceptible to falling ill from eating marshmallows, any dog, regardless of size, can face health issues from indulging in this sugary treat.

What Should You Do if Your Dog Eats Marshmallows?

If your dog has ingested marshmallows and you’re unsure about what to do, your first step is to call your veterinarian immediately. Pancreatitis and toxicity are serious and require immediate attention to save your dog’s life. Depending on your proximity to the vet clinic, they may advise you to bring your pet in for prompt examination and treatment.

However, if you’re far from the vet, they may guide you through inducing vomiting safely to buy your pet some time before getting professional help. Be aware of the risk of marshmallow expansion in the stomach, which can cause bloat or choking if the marshmallow expands in the throat. In such cases, it’s crucial to rush your dog to the vet without attempting to induce vomiting yourself. Let the experts handle the situation to prevent unintentional harm to your furry friend.

Are There Any Safe Marshmallows for Dogs?

While there are marshmallows available that don’t contain artificial sweeteners and may be less toxic, it doesn’t mean they are safe treats for dogs. Marshmallows, regardless of their sweetener content, are loaded with sugar, which should never be given to your pet. Even if your dog consumes marshmallows without artificial sweeteners, you should still be cautious as the high sugar levels can lead to an upset stomach, pancreatitis, and vomiting.

If your dog vomits multiple times after consuming marshmallows, it’s important to seek veterinary care promptly to prevent dehydration and ensure proper care for their digestive tract.

Dogs Should Steer Clear of Marshmallows and Sweets

Whether your dog has a sweet tooth or a fondness for human food, it’s essential to resist the temptation of giving them marshmallows or other sugary treats. These indulgences can lead to serious health issues such as pancreatitis, upset stomachs, obesity, and diabetes in dogs. Remember, xylitol is toxic to dogs, so any food containing this artificial sweetener is potentially deadly.

To reward your pup, opt for treats specifically made for dogs and consult with your veterinarian for their food and treat recommendations. If your dog has consumed marshmallows and you’re in Chicago, IL, reach out to West Loop Veterinary Care. Our veterinarians will ensure your dog receives the necessary treatment to return to their normal, healthy, and happy self!

Call us today at 312-421-2275 or book an appointment online.