Can Dogs Eat Nerds? What You Need To Know!
Can Dogs Eat Nerds? What You Need To Know!
By: Sarah Hodgson
June 8, 2023
- Posted in Dogs
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If you're a fan of Nerds, you know that these candies are small, colorful, and packed with a tangy flavor. But is it okay for your dog to indulge in these sweets too? In this article, we will go through everything you need to know if you find yourself in a situation where your dog has consumed Nerds candy.
Let's dive into the world of Nerds and dogs and find out.
What Are Nerds Candy?
Let's first go over what nerd candies are and the ingredients they are made of. Nerds are a type of candy made by the Ferrara Candy Company, known for their small size and vibrant colors. They are primarily made up of sugar, dextrose, malic acid, and artificial flavorings and colorings. While these ingredients may not be harmful to humans, let's go over each one and see if they play an effect on dogs.
Are The Ingredients In Nerds Toxic For Dogs?
Now that we know what Nerds are made of let's break down the ingredients and see if any of them could be toxic for dogs.
- Sugar: While sugar isn't toxic for dogs, it can lead to various health issues, including obesity, diabetes, and dental problems. As such, it's best to avoid giving your dog sugary treats like Nerds.
- Dextrose: Dextrose is a type of sugar derived from corn, and it also isn't toxic for dogs. However, as mentioned earlier, sugar can cause health problems in dogs, so it's best to avoid it.
- Malic acid: Malic acid is a natural compound found in many fruits and is used in Nerds to give them their tangy flavor. It's not toxic for dogs, but it can cause stomach upset when consumed in large quantities.
- Artificial flavorings and colorings: Some artificial flavorings and colorings can be harmful to dogs, especially if consumed in large amounts. While the amounts found in Nerds are likely small, it's still best to avoid them.
Can Dogs Eat Nerds?
After going over the ingredients in Nerds, I have to say that it's best not to allow your dog to eat these candies.
While none of the ingredients are explicitly toxic for dogs, the high sugar content and artificial flavorings and colorings can pose health risks for your furry friend. Therefore, it's best to keep your Nerds out of your dog's reach and offer them healthier treats instead.
Potential health risks of dogs consuming Nerds
As mentioned earlier, while the ingredients in Nerds aren't toxic for dogs, they can still cause health issues if consumed. Some potential health risks of dogs consuming Nerds include:
- Stomach upset: The sugar and malic acid in Nerds can cause stomach upset and diarrhea in dogs, especially if they consume a large amount of the candy.
- Obesity: The high sugar content in Nerds can contribute to weight gain and obesity in dogs, leading to further health issues like joint problems and heart disease.
- Diabetes: Regularly consuming sugary treats like Nerds can increase the risk of your dog developing diabetes.
- Dental problems: Sugary treats can lead to plaque buildup and dental issues in dogs, just like they can in humans.
What to do if your dog eats Nerds
If you suspect that your dog has eaten Nerds, it's essential to monitor them closely for any signs of distress or illness. Some symptoms to watch for include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and excessive thirst. If you notice any of these symptoms, or if your dog consumed a large amount of Nerds, contact your veterinarian for advice. They may recommend bringing your dog in for an examination or suggest treatment options to help your dog recover.
Safe Alternatives to Nerds for your dog
Instead of offering your dog Nerds or other sugary treats, consider providing them with healthier alternatives that are specifically made for dogs. There are plenty of dog-friendly treats available on the market that are both nutritious and delicious for your furry friend. Some options include:
- Dog-friendly fruit: Many dogs enjoy fruit, and some safe options include apples (without seeds), bananas, and blueberries. Just be sure to avoid grapes and raisins, as they can be toxic for dogs.
- Dog biscuits: There are many dog biscuit recipes online that you can make at home using healthy ingredients like pumpkin, peanut butter (without xylitol), and oats.
- Commercial dog treats: When purchasing commercial dog treats, look for those made with natural ingredients and avoid those with added sugars, artificial flavorings, and colorings.
The Bottom Line
While it may be tempting to share your Nerds candy with your canine companion, it's best to avoid doing so. The high sugar content and artificial ingredients found in Nerds can pose health risks to your dog, and there are plenty of healthier treat options available. Remember, always keep your Nerds and other candies out of your dog's reach, and provide them with safe and nutritious treats instead.
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