Can Dogs Eat Twizzlers?

Twizzlers may catch your dog’s attention with their bright colors and chewy texture, but these treats are best left for people. The main issue with Twizzlers isn’t just the sugar but also the artificial colors and ingredients, which can be harmful to dogs. Some dogs might be okay after sneaking a small piece, but Twizzlers have no nutritional value and can cause health problems, so it’s best not to share them with your dog.

Are Twizzlers bad for dogs?

Yes, Twizzlers can be bad for dogs for several reasons. The main ingredients, including corn syrup, enriched wheat flour, sugar, cornstarch, palm oil, salt, and artificial flavorings, are not really suitable for dogs. These ingredients can lead to obesity, dental problems, and diabetes. Furthermore, artificial colors used in Twizzlers can cause allergic reactions in some dogs, leading to skin irritations, gastrointestinal upset, or respiratory issues. This makes Twizzlers an unhealthy choice for dogs, especially those with known sensitivities or allergies. Let’s look into a full breakdown of the ingredients.

Ingredients in Twizzlers

The ingredients in Twizzlers, while great for giving them their signature taste and texture, are not ideal for dogs and can be considered bad for their health. Here’s why:

• Corn Syrup: This sweetener is high in sugar, contributing to potential obesity, dental problems, and diabetes in dogs. It offers no nutritional benefit to them.
• Enriched Wheat Flour: Commonly used in Twizzlers for its chewy texture, this ingredient is a source of gluten, which some dogs may be sensitive to, potentially causing digestive issues.
• Sugar: Similar to corn syrup, sugar can lead to obesity and dental issues in dogs. It’s a high-calorie ingredient with no nutritional value for them.
• Cornstarch: Used as a thickening agent, cornstarch isn’t necessarily harmful but doesn’t provide any nutritional benefit to dogs either.
• Palm Oil: While not toxic, palm oil can be hard on a dog’s digestive system and, in large amounts, can lead to stomach upset or diarrhea.
• Salt: In small amounts, salt isn’t harmful, but excessive salt intake can lead to dehydration and salt poisoning in dogs.
• Artificial Flavorings: These can cause allergic reactions in some dogs, leading to skin irritations, gastrointestinal upset, or even respiratory issues.

Twizzlers, like many candies, contain artificial colors and flavors that can potentially trigger allergic reactions in dogs. The specific artificial colors and flavors commonly found in Twizzlers include:

Artificial Colors:

• Red 40 (Allura Red)
• Yellow 5 (Tartrazine)
• Yellow 6 (Sunset Yellow)
• Blue 1 (Brilliant Blue)

Artificial Flavors:

• Artificial Strawberry Flavoring
• Artificial Licorice Flavoring

These artificial additives can cause various allergic reactions in dogs, such as skin irritation, itching, and gastrointestinal upset. It’s best to avoid giving Twizzlers and other similar candies to dogs to prevent these potential issues.

Can dogs eat black licorice Twizzlers, and what’s the problem with licorice?

While sharing a red Twizzler with your dog may not cause any serious problems other than an upset stomach, black licorice Twizzlers are a different story, because of the licorice extract. However, according to insights from Dr. Scarlett, even black licorice Twizzlers are unlikely to contain enough “real” licorice to cause significant health issues for dogs. Real licorice extract, in large quantities, can lead to more serious conditions, including changes in blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances, and even toxicity in dogs. But the amount in black licorice Twizzlers is typically minimal.

What to do if your dog eats Twizzlers

If your dog eats a lot of Twizzlers, here’s what you should do:

In conclusion, while Twizzlers are a fun treat for humans, they’re unsuitable for our four-legged friends. Instead of sharing sugary, artificially colored snacks, choose healthy, dog-safe alternatives. Twizzlers should not be used as a special treat.

Love, life, and fur forever.

FAQs

Can dogs eat Twizzlers Nibs?

Not recommended. Twizzler Nibs contain the same harmful ingredients as regular Twizzlers. Dogs should not consume Twizzlers Nibs as they are made with high amounts of sugar, artificial flavors, and additives that can be harmful to their health. Ingesting these ingredients can lead to digestive issues, obesity, and even more serious health problems in dogs. It is best to stick to dog-friendly treats and snacks to ensure their well-being and safety.

Are Twizzlers toxic to dogs?

Not toxic, but their high sugar and artificial additives can cause health issues.

What should I do if my dog eats Twizzlers?

Not much, really. But if your dog ate a ton of Twizzlers, then please keep an eye out for any signs of digestive upset and consult your vet if any concerning symptoms arise. Twizzlers are not toxic to dogs, but the high sugar content can potentially cause stomach issues like diarrhea or vomiting.

Can Twizzlers cause allergies in dogs?

Yes, the artificial colors and flavors in Twizzlers can trigger allergic reactions in some dogs.