Can Dogs Eat Popsicles? 10 Safe PUPsicle Options for Your Dog

Risks of Feeding Your Dog Popsicles

There are a few risks to consider before giving your dog a popsicle:

• Some ingredients, like xylitol, can be toxic to dogs.
• Too many popsicles can give your pet digestive issues. Sugar can upset their stomach, and the cold temperature of popsicles can trigger bloat in susceptible dogs.
• Make sure your dog isn’t lactose intolerant before giving them a cream-based popsicle. You don’t want diarrhea and vomiting in your home!
• Watch out for the popsicle stick as well! Dogs can easily crack it in half and hurt the inside of their esophagus, or choke on the pieces.

Editor’s Note

Hot summer day, sweat beads trickling down your forehead, cooling off with a popsicle – sounds perfect, right? But what about giving your pup a lick of this frozen treat? Can dogs eat popsicles too? Read this article to find out!

Can Dogs Eat Store-Bought Popsicles?

Store-bought popsicles aren’t recommended because they contain sugar (or worse, artificial sweeteners). Too much sugar is a straight road to obesity, diabetes, and dental problems. Additionally, food dyes or other ingredients in popsicles might be toxic to dogs.

Popsicle Options That Are Safe for Dogs

So, can dogs eat popsicles? Unless you’re absolutely sure that the product is safe, don’t give them any. Or better yet, make your own pup-sicles! You only need an ice cube tray or a popsicle mold, a few simple ingredients and lots of love!

Watermelon and Cantaloupe Slices Frozen

This is a refreshing and healthy option that your dog will love. Just remove the seeds from the watermelon before freezing.

Peanut Butter and Banana Ice Cubes

These healthy and delicious ice cubes are a great way to cool off your dog on a hot day. You can prepare them by blending a ripe banana with some peanut butter and freezing the mixture in an ice cube tray.

Yogurt Popsicles

Choose a sugar-free yogurt without any extra artificial sweeteners for the healthiest option. You can also add some fruit or vegetables to the mix for extra flavor and nutrition. Check our articles on “what fruits can dogs eat” and “what vegetables can dogs eat”.

Chicken Broth Popsicles

Yes, you read that right – these savory popsicles are a great way to hydrate your dog and keep them cool. Just be sure to use low-sodium broth to avoid salt overload!

Pumpkin Purée Popsicles

Perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs! If your dog’s on the less-sensitive side, you can even go ahead and add some cinnamon for an extra-flavorful treat.

Apple and Carrot Popsicles

These are a great way to get your dog to eat their vegetables. Just blend together an apple, some carrots, and some water into a purée and freeze it in the popsicle mold for a healthy snack that your pup will love.

Coconut Water Popsicles

Coconut water is low in calories and packed with electrolytes, making it a perfect hydrator for your pup. Just pour some coconut water into the popsicle mold and freeze for a refreshing summer treat.

Papaya Popsicles

Papaya is a great source of fiber and vitamins, making it a perfect addition to your pup’s diet. Just blend together some ripe papaya with water and freeze for a healthy snack.

Blueberry and Oats Popsicles

This nutritious treat will be loved by all dog owners! Simply blend some frozen blueberries with some cooked oats and water before freezing in the popsicle mold.

Water and Fruit Popsicles

This is a simple but delicious option that your pup will love. Just add some frozen pieces of fruit to a popsicle mold and fill it up with cold water for an easy treat.

Try Our Pupsicle Recipe!

If you’re overwhelmed by the number of options, take a deep breath, we’ll walk you through it step by step. If you want to give your pooch something just as fluffy and sweet like him, this might be a recipe for you! This popsicle recipe is made with all-natural ingredients and is free of sugar, dairy, and gluten.

Ingredients:

• ½ cup coconut milk;
• ½ cup yogurt;
• ¼ cup honey;
• ½ banana, mashed.

Instructions:

Blend all ingredients in a blender until smooth. Pour mixture into popsicle molds and freeze for several hours. Could this be any easier? Enjoy!

Can Dogs Eat Popsicles? Now You Know

So, can dogs eat popsicles? Yes, but be smart about it. Read the ingredients carefully – if you see xylitol, put that popsicle away! Homemade pupsicles and frozen dog treats are fire (or rather… cool)! Happy snacking!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Popsicles Harm Dogs?

Sugar and water – the secret to popsicles that kids will beg for in the summer – won’t directly harm your dog (though it can cause weight gain and increase their risk for diabetes). But if the brand uses artificial flavors and colors, think twice. The icy treats may end with an upset doggy stomach. Most importantly, popsicles with xylitol can be extremely dangerous for them! 

Can I Let My Dog Lick My Popsicle?

While the risk of harm may be low, don’t let your dog lick your popsicle if you’re unsure what’s in it. And always make sure that your dog doesn’t get carried away and keep an eye on them if they do take a few licks.

What Happens if Your Dog Eats a Popsicle Stick?

Popsicle sticks can cause obstructions in dogs’ intestines. Depending on the size, it may need to be surgically removed or your vet may conclude it will pass naturally. Either way, seek medical advice as soon as possible.

Can Dogs Eat Ice Cream?

In small amounts and without added toppings or chocolate, yes. But even plain ice cream shouldn’t be given too often as it contains a lot of sugar which can lead to excessive weight gain in your pup. Additionally, some ingredients used in making ice cream may be dangerous for dogs such as xylitol which can cause a severe drop in blood sugar and even liver failure. 

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• Can Dogs Eat Ice? Why Do Vets Recommend Ice Cubes for Dogs?
• Can Dogs Eat Marshmallows? Are They Bad for Dogs?
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