The answer to the question, Can dogs eat popsicles? surprises many dog owners. During the humid summer days, there is no question that a delicious popsicle is just the perfect treat to help you beat the heat.
Dog popsicles are tasty, cool your dog down, and are so nostalgic that it makes you feel like a kid again. But if you have a dog, you can’t help but wonder, “Can I give my dog popsicles?”
Can Dogs Eat Popsicles?
Well, the short answer is yes. Sharing some popsicles with your best friend is okay, but that doesn’t mean all frozen treats are healthy for your pup.
It is possible your dog could be allergic to an ingredient or the flavoring and artificial coloring used in the popsicle.
Whenever you give your pup something new to eat, you should give it to them slowly. This will allow you to determine whether or not they have an allergic reaction or intolerance when digesting them.
Are popsicles bad for dogs?
While dogs may enjoy the taste of popsicles as humans do, feeding most store-brand popsicles designed for humans is not recommended to our furry friends.
Popsicles contain high amounts of sugar and artificial dyes, which can lead to stomach upset, obesity, and even tooth decay in dogs.
Some popsicle flavors may contain ingredients that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, xylitol, or grapes.
It’s best to avoid giving your dog popsicles altogether and stick to a healthy and balanced diet suitable for their specific nutritional needs. Instead, you can provide your dog with plenty of fresh water and frozen dog treats specifically made for canines.
The difference between dog popsicles and human popsicles
The primary difference between dog popsicles and human popsicles is their ingredients. Dog popsicles are specifically formulated with safe and healthy ingredients for dogs to consume.
They are typically made with natural and whole food ingredients such as chicken or beef broth, peanut butter, fruits, vegetables, and other dog-safe ingredients.
The question is not can dogs have popsicles but what type of popsicles
In contrast, human popsicles are typically high in sugar, artificial flavors and colors, and/or other ingredients that dogs should not consume regularly.
Human popsicles may also contain chocolate, xylitol, or other ingredients that are toxic to dogs, which can cause serious health problems if ingested.
When it comes to feeding popsicles to dogs, it’s always best to purchase dog-specific products or make them at home using dog-friendly ingredients.
DOGSIZED Dog-Life Hack
Make your own dog popsicles at home!
Our Chief Dogsized Influencer, Tiger loves his homemade ‘pupsicles’ and they’re very easy to make. We’ve linked everything you need to make them for your pooch.
Why Would Popsicles Be Harmful To Dogs?
There are a number of possible side effects that may happen if you feed your dog popsicles. Most popsicles have dairy and since most dogs are naturally lactose intolerant, feeding them popsicles can cause indigestion, diarrhea or vomiting to your poor pup.
As noted earlier, dog owners need to be aware of the ingredients that are in store-bought popsicles. In addition to artificial sweeteners like Xylitol, there may also be other ingredients like chocolate and raisins, which are all toxic to dogs even in small doses.
Artificial ingredients and sugars that aren’t harmful to dogs may also pose concerns because they could contribute to other health problems, such as obesity or diabetes.
We’re not saying that giving your pooch some popsicles every now and then is bad fur parenting! We know that most dog owners are guilty of giving pups dog popsicles too, especially during puppy teething time!
There’s nothing wrong with enjoying a tasty treat every once in a while, just read the labels and seek out healthy alternatives. In fact, making your own is the best way to go. When given properly, there are benefits to feeding your dog popsicles too.
This leads us to our next point—
Benefits of Feeding Your Dog Popsicles
It is a good way to beat the summer heat. Give your pooch some frozen chew toys to keep their body temperature cool.
It is an excellent way to raise their mood. Frozen treats keep your dogs in good spirits and reduce any lingering anxiety, boredom and stress.
They also make for a good rewarding treat whenever they do something commendable. This includes learning how to do a trick or learning how to pass their potty in the right place.
Make your own frozen treats by freezing peanut butter, beef broth or mashed fruits. Place them in a silicone treat mold for a bite-sized frozen snack!
