Find out what frozen treats your dog can eat to help them stay cool this summer, including whether or not they can eat popsicles.
Do you want to know if your dog can indulge in a “pup cone” or popsicle at the nearby drive-through?
Or perhaps you want to know if you can give your dog a taste of your homemade sweet treat.
Benefits of Dog-Friendly Popsicles For Your Pooch
Healthy frozen treats can be useful for enrichment, as a special treat to reward your dog, and for keeping your dog cool on hot days.
Providing enrichment for your dog is an essential component of their care. By giving the dog some control over their environment and reducing anxiety and stress, it can help prevent behavioral issues as well as boredom and obesity.
Food puzzles are a fantastic option for enrichment for your dogs, and many of them can be frozen to increase the challenge and provide a treat that will last for a long time.
Potential Popsicle Health Concerns
Many commercial popsicles contain frozen dairy products like ice cream or frozen yogurt. Even though they may occasionally be served in small portions, these can still upset the stomach and result in gas, diarrhea, bloating, abdominal pain, and vomiting. Many dogs struggle to digest milk and other dairy products because they are lactose intolerant.
Additionally, harmful ingredients like the artificial sweetener xylitol, macadamia nuts, and raisins can be found in popsicles made for humans. Xylitol and raisins should never be given to dogs because they are toxic to them even in small amounts.
In addition, some popsicles contain chocolate, and dogs can become toxic from this theobromine. If the ice cream or popsicle contains dark chocolate with a high cocoa content, only a small amount must be consumed to cause issues. Dogs may experience gastrointestinal, central nervous, and cardiac troubles.
Even if the sugar, flavorings, or sweeteners commonly found in popsicles are not harmful, they can still cause obesity and present particular difficulties for diabetic dogs.
Dog Ate Popsicle – What Do I Do
Xylitol and the stick are the parts of the popsicle that are most hazardous. If there are ingredients listed, check them if your dog ate a popsicle. Additionally, you ought to check to see if your dog ate the popsicle stick. This is information your veterinarian will need.
Then, watch your dog’s behavior. Contact your veterinarian if they begin to cough constantly, act lethargic, or exhibit any other symptoms of illness.
Real fruit should always be pureed and frozen for your dog. Do not give them flavored popsicles made for people.
These are the most common popsicles flavors. Keep them away from your pet.
You might consider organic frozen pops as healthy popsicles. They appear healthier, but they still contain the same amount of sugar. Dogs shouldn’t consume excessive amounts of sugar, so avoid giving them organic popsicles as well.
A small amount is safe for your dog to eat if they are not lactose intolerant and the popsicles are made with real sugar. Make sure they are made with plain yogurt if possible. Greek yogurt is a good option as well because it contains more protein.
If your dog experiences stomach issues after consuming milk, cheese, or yogurt, they may be lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy products.
Dogs can consume homemade DIY popsicles provided you use ingredients that are safe for them. Don’t make them with popsicle sticks if you intend to share them with your pet. Simply prepare them in a silicone mold, and allow your dog to consume the entire frozen treat.
Check out this recipe for Peanut Butter Pupsicles.
FAQ
Can dogs eat cold popsicles?
Dog owners should refrain from giving their pets popsicles, ice cream, and frozen yogurt. Instead, try feeding your dog these vet-approved frozen dog treats.
What happens if a dog eats a popsicle?
Keep an eye out for any warning signs, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, blood in the stools, lethargy, or a lack of interest in food. If your dog is behaving abnormally, call your vet immediately. Watch your dog for up to a week to make sure there are no side effects.
Why does my dog love popsicles?
Popsicles are a favorite treat for both humans and dogs because they are so refreshing on a hot day. These dog-friendly popsicles are much healthier than the sugar-filled human popsicle treats. Not only are they secure for our closest companions, but they also keep dogs hydrated.