Despite the fact that dogs will naturally crave sweets, their diet should not include large amounts of sugary treats. In the long run, excessive sugar intake can cause health issues such as obesity, dental problems, and diabetes. Instead, focus on offering your dog foods that are naturally low in can dogs eat sugar like vegetables and fruits, or a healthy and delicious high-protein kibble, such as Bold by Nature Mega Duck.
While granulated sugar may be toxic to dogs in large quantities, there are other types of sugars that can be problematic for canines, such as fructose found in fruit. Fructose is a type of simple carbohydrate that provides a quick boost of energy and aids in digestion, but it should be avoided in large quantities.
Sugar and Your Pooch: What You Need to Know About Canine Consumption
On the other hand, natural sugars found in things like berries and cantaloupe are okay for dogs to consume in moderate amounts as they are part of a well-rounded diet. However, it’s important to keep in mind that dogs have a different metabolism than humans, so they are not able to digest and process sugar as efficiently. In the case of over-indulging in sugar, your dog might experience a sugar high similar to how we feel after eating too much candy, which can lead to a loss of fluids, lethargy, and stomach upset.
In addition to natural sugar, be aware of artificial sweeteners, such as xylitol, that is often found in chewing gum, candies, and diet food products. Xylitol is extremely toxic for dogs and should not be in their diets. If your dog ingests xylitol, contact your vet immediately. If the amount ingested is extreme, they might require immediate in-office treatment to restore their blood glucose levels.