Dogs eating ice cream: It just sounds right! Your dog loves yummy treats, so you're sure he'd love a lick of soft serve when it's hot outside. But, is it bad for them, or can dogs eat ice cream safely? The truth is, as cute as it seems to share your dessert with your fluffy friend, it's best to keep your dog far away from any ice cream. Here are the two main reasons why ice cream can be bad for dogs:
1. Dogs Don't Digest Milk Well
Humans aren't the only species that are sensitive to dairy. Eating ice cream may cause your dog a stomach ache or worse, depending on how sensitive they are.
Ice cream can cause your dog gas, bloating, constipation, diarrhoea or vomiting.
Remember, your dog can't voice their concerns to you, so while they might look OK on the outside, they could be experiencing some major digestive issues on the inside. No one wants their beloved pet to suffer in silence!
2. There's Too Much Sugar In Ice Cream
Sugar is also bad for your pooch. The sugar in ice cream can cause your dog to gain weight, and being overweight can lead to other health problems. You might think one scoop can't hurt, but think of how many calories your pet consumes in a day. What may feel like a small treat to you could contain more than a day's worth of calories for your dog.
Tasty Tips
3. Ice Cream Can Contain Ingredients Toxic to Dogs
Some ice creams include xylitol, a sweetener that's poisonous to dogs. Ice cream can also contain additional ingredients that have xylitol in them, like peanut butter and some candies.
Chocolate ice cream and chocolate toppings, like chocolate sauce and chocolate chips, present additional dangers since chocolate can be toxic for dogs, too. And rum raisin ice cream is off-limits because raisins are also poisonous for pups.
There are far too many health risks involved to feed your dog ice cream — even if it's just a lick.
Dog-Friendly Ice Cream Alternatives
Don't despair! If you're an ice cream aficionado, you can still share the joy of eating a frozen treat with your pet.
If you're interested in making homemade alternatives, there are a few options. Banana "ice cream" is a yummy, simple treat: Just freeze bananas and blend them. You can also add apples, pumpkin or dog-safe peanut butter to the mix. Another option is to freeze plain apple sauce and pumpkin puree in silicone moulds for a treat that's a little more like an ice pop than ice cream. If you're short on time, dogs actually love plain ice cubes too; they're great treats with no additional calories. Just make sure to not go overboard in case your dog might get brain freeze.
If you'd prefer to go the store-bought route, many grocery stores sell pet-safe ice cream in their frozen foods section. Most of these ice creams are just as safe as homemade treats, but it's always best to read the labels. Some ice creams for dogs contain yogurt, which your dog might tolerate better than milk or cream since it has less lactose. It's usually safest to stick to non-dairy treats. Always make sure to talk to your veterinarian before giving anything to your dog.
Can dogs eat ice cream? They can't eat the same kind you eat, but there are plenty of frozen, pet-safe sweets they can enjoy. The idea of dogs eating ice cream might sound cute, but the sick pet that could result is no laughing matter. On the bright side, no ice cream for Fido means more ice cream for you!
Related products
Adult Large Breed Chicken & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Supports healthy joints, lean muscle, and beautiful coat for large breed dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Mobility Large Breed Chicken Meal, Barley & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Advanced nutrition shown to support joint health and improve mobility
Adult Light Large Breed Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Fewer calories for less active large breed dogs
Adult Light Chicken Meal & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Fewer calories for less active dogs
Related articles
Keeping Your Dog From Begging at the Dinner Table
Learn how to stop your dog from begging at the dinner table, and understand how it can help contribute to his health.
What to Look For in Food for a Mature Dog
Learn about choosing the right dog food to help ensure your mature older dog will receive the correct balance of nutrition.
Helpful Tips for Exercising with Your Dog
Though it may seem like your four-legged friend loves nothing more than to nap on the couch, dogs need regular exercise to stay healthy just like people do.
Exercise Tips to Keep Your Dog Active
A little exercise can make a big difference. Not only will it enhance your pet’s health, but it will beef up your relationship as well.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.