Can Dogs Eat Marshmallows?

Dogs should not consume marshmallows for a few health-related reasons. In addition to contributing no nutritional value to a balanced diet for dogs, this sweet human food has a high amount of sugar, which can cause weight gain, gastrointestinal upset, and tooth decay in canines. Additionally, sugar-free marshmallows contain artificial sweeteners like xylitol, which is toxic for pooches. If you believe that your dog has consumed marshmallows, the best course of action is to call your veterinarian immediately.

Instead of giving your dog this sugar-packed confection, consider incorporating fruits or veggies into their diet as healthier dog treats. If you need a snack to sneak doggy medication into, try peanut butter instead. Keep in mind that a balanced diet for dogs includes ninety percent of their calories coming from dedicated dog food, with ten percent coming from human foods.

Feeding your dog marshmallows may have severe consequences, including:

1. 1. Contains a high amount of sugar: Feeding a dog (especially one who is diabetic) junk food with high sugar content—like marshmallows—can contribute to weight gain and cause their blood sugar to spike. Additionally, these corn syrup–packed desserts can harm a dog’s teeth and cause stomach discomfort.
2. 2. Gastrointestinal trouble: Excessively sugary treats can upset your dog’s fragile digestive system. In addition to an upset stomach, a dog may experience pancreatitis (the inflammation of the pancreas) or a GI obstruction after eating marshmallows.
3. 3. May contain poisonous xylitol: Many sugar-free marshmallows contain the artificial sweetener xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs, and can lead to seizures and liver damage or liver failure, even in small quantities.

Follow these steps if your dog happens to eat marshmallows.

1. 1. Call your vet. If you catch your dog eating a marshmallow—or suspect that they did—call your veterinarian immediately to get advice. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Helpline is another helpful resource to understand whether your pet is having a toxic reaction.
2. 2. Read the ingredients list. Check the package of marshmallows to see if they contain any xylitol. In the case of mini marshmallows and larger dog breeds, there may be a lower risk if your dog managed to sneak one from a bag of regular marshmallows. However, sugar-free varieties likely contain xylitol, which is toxic to dogs, and pet owners should immediately seek medical attention.
3. 3. Monitor your dog for side effects. If your dog ate regular marshmallows and the vet has advised you to stay home, watch your pooch for the next few hours to safeguard against any adverse reactions, including vomiting, lethargy, excessive drooling, or stomach discomfort.
4. 4. Take your dog to see a vet. Seek veterinary care immediately if your dog is experiencing any adverse reactions. Take them to a veterinary emergency room if necessary. Especially if your pet consumed fluff or even a whole bag of marshmallows, the vet might induce vomiting.

Certain human foods can cause adverse reactions in canines, so always consult your veterinarian to determine whether it is safe to add these foods to your dog’s diet. This article is for educational and informational purposes and is not a substitute for medical or dietary advice.

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