Can dogs eat gummy sweets?
Quick verdict
Unsafe
Key risk
Sugar-free sweets often contain xylitol, which is highly toxic and can be fatal even in small amounts.
Why
Gummy sweets are sugary and sugar-free ones can be deadly, so avoid them for dogs.
Can dogs eat gummy sweets, and why?
Gummy sweets are sugary and sugar-free ones can be deadly, so avoid them for dogs. Sugar-free sweets often contain xylitol, which is highly toxic and can be fatal even in small amounts.
Dogs are omnivores, so most of their diet should be a complete, balanced dog food, with treats on top. They cope with a wide range of foods, but rich, fatty or sugary ones can cause stomach upset and, over time, weight gain or pancreatitis.
Warning — what to watch for
Sugar-free sweets often contain xylitol, which is highly toxic and can be fatal even in small amounts.
If your dog has eaten gummy sweets, don’t wait for symptoms — contact your vet immediately, or call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, UK). Signs of a problem can include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, lethargy, tremors or loss of appetite.
More foods dogs might eat
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding dogs well:
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat gummy sweets?
Unsafe. Gummy sweets are sugary and sugar-free ones can be deadly, so avoid them for dogs.
What happens if my dog eats gummy sweets?
Sugar-free sweets often contain xylitol, which is highly toxic and can be fatal even in small amounts. If your dog has eaten gummy sweets, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is gummy sweets poisonous to dogs?
Unsafe. Gummy sweets are sugary and sugar-free ones can be deadly, so avoid them for dogs.
Check gummy sweets for another pet