When it comes to marshmallows, chances are your dog doesn’t care if they’re charred or golden brown. But should pet parents offer dogs these sweet treats? Veterinarian and pet health advocate Dr. Aliya McCullough breaks it down for us.
Check the ingredients. Marshmallows that are made of sugar, water and gelatin — all safe ingredients for cats and dogs — are OK to eat. Actually, marshmallows are a great alternative to pill pockets. The sticky interior will stop even the most talented pill-removing pet from avoiding taking their medication.
Always talk to your veterinarian before introducing a new treat. Stay away from anything that uses the artificial sweetener xylitol instead of regular sugar. This ingredient is toxic for dogs, causing blood sugar to drop and potentially damaging the liver.
Even if the marshmallow doesn’t have xylitol in it, you shouldn’t give your dogs too many of them. Marshmallows have a lot of sugar so limit your pup to once in a while. Treats should only make up 10% of your dog’s daily calories.
If your dog got into a bag of marshmallows without the artificial sweetener xylitol, they will most likely be OK. They may vomit or have diarrhea, but the effects should not be life-threatening. But, if your dog ate the wrong kind of marshmallows or if you’re not sure which kind they ate, take your dog to the vet, as they may want to monitor their blood sugar levels.
The Dig, Fetch Pet Insurance's expert-backed editorial, answers all of the questions you forget to ask your vet or are too embarrassed to ask at the dog park. We help make sure you and your best friend have more good days, but we’re there on bad days, too.
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