Not all dogs love sweet treats! But if it does then you will surely have to serve them sweet treats to keep them in a good mood and that can result in diabetes. No matter how much you care about your dogs, you can’t always give them what the human eats. Their digestive system will not be able to process specific foods that humans can. So, you need to avoid specific foods. And one thing that keeps popping is “Can dogs eat caramel?
Read on to know more
What is a Caramel?
Caramel is a sweet! It’s a mix of heated sugar, water, butter and cream. It gives you beautiful gold and orange-colored confectionery. They are usually added as topping sauce and used in the making of toffees, lollipops, and candies.
Can dogs eat caramel?
No, you are not supposed to offer raw sugar to your dogs. They can cause obesity, diabetes, and other diseases. Though caramel is not that harmful to dogs, it could still cause so many health hazards. Feeding this high amount of sugar can change their behavior and cause hyperactivity and difficulty in concentration.
This can make your fur babies to be irritated all the time. If your dog is constantly feeling thirsty or hungry then these are signs of diabetes. Take them to a vet to diagnose and treat this disorder.Eating too much sugar or sugary foods (also caramel) can cause a ‘candy flip’ this is caused by the results of insulin buildup and also leads to hypoglycemia (excess or too low insulin levels).
What are the long–term side effects of feeding sugar to dogs?
- Diarrhea – One of the most common issues is Diarrhea! Too much sugar can affect your dog’s gut health which results in stomach upset. So, you need to stop feeding them high-sugar foods or caramel to your dogs.
- Obesity – A high amount of sugar can be stored and causes weight gain and obesity in dogs.
- Cavities – Feeding your dogs can cause cavities and damaged teeth. To avoid this, stop or limit offering them sweets.
- Addiction – Offering them sweets regularly can be an addiction and results in a sugar rush. Your dogs might get tempted and keep asking for sweet treats which can result in more anxious behaviour.
- Arthritis – Sugar intake can also result in arthritis development in dogs. This can cause joint pains and inflammation.
Symptoms of Sugar ingestion in dogs
If you have noticed symptoms like;
- Restlessness
- Hyperactivity
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
If you see the above-mentioned symptoms in dogs after feeding sugary treats or caramel then take it to your vet immediately.
Treatment of sugar ingestion in dogs
If you notice your furry pets having diarrhea or vomiting then your vet might suggest an IV shot for your dog. This will help them recover fully after eating sugary foods. It is like a quick detox for them and their digestive system will also calm down.
Caramel alternative for your pets
You might be tempted to offer them sweets, caramel, or chocolates. But prioritizing their health is very essential, so feeding your dogs these is not going to help them in any way. There are lots of delicious and healthy alternatives such as turkey and chicken. You can offer them unsalted peanut butter or unsalted nut butter for that healthy fat kick!
FAQs
Q1. Can dogs consume caramel?
No type of sweet be it chocolate or caramel, is not safe for dogs. Sugar is unhealthy for them and it’s packed with lots of unhealthy components. Even sugar-free caramel is unhealthy for them. Offering them once in a while is okay but don’t keep it regular.
Q2. What else can I feed them?
While dogs love to eat caramel as it is super sweet, but is not healthier for them. Offer them fruits that are very sweet instead of raw sugars. It has vitamins and antioxidants that are highly beneficial for them. You can also offer them veggies like carrots and beets that are sweet naturally.
Q3. Can I give caramel popcorn to dogs?
Plain popcorn is safe in moderation for dogs. But avoid popcorn that is loaded with salt or butter. Caramel popcorn is not toxic but offering them sugar foods can cause serious health illness.
Q4. Can I feed candy for dogs?
No, candies are not safe for dogs. Never offer them sugary foods of more than ten grams as they can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs.
Conclusion
Your answer to Can dogs eat caramel is answered! Never offer them caramel, as it is raw and high in sugar and doesn’t give any nutritional benefit. It is your responsibility to take care of your furry friends and try offering them healthy treats that are good for them.