Key Takeaways
- Marshmallows can be quite dangerous for canine consumption, or at least, very unhealthy ⚠️
- Most marshmallows are made of sugar, but some can contain xylitol – an artificial sweetener which is toxic to dogs ⚠️
- Sugar in your dog’s diet can quickly lead to weight gain and health problems 🍬
- If you want to give your dog a treat, there are many safer alternatives like apples, bananas, and homemade treats made with natural ingredients 🍎✔️
For the love of all things good and pure, can dogs eat marshmallows? The answer is unfortunately no – and it has nothing to do with the sticky sweetness of these treats. Marshmallows may seem like a harmless snack for canines, but they can actually be quite dangerous. In this article, we’ll explore why marshmallows are bad for dogs and offer some healthier alternatives.
What Are Marshmallows?
A marshmallow is a cylinder of sugar-based confectionery that has been whipped and blown into a massive, fluffy cloud. And while it can be enjoyed in many ways (melted on s’mores or roasted over an open flame), these yummy treats can actually be dangerous for canines.
Can Dogs Eat Marshmallows as a Snack?
Dogs can easily eat too many marshmallows and get sick. If you want to hand your dog a snack, make sure it’s not toxic for dogs. Can dogs eat marshmallows from the store?
Xylitol is a common ingredient in candy and can be toxic to dogs. This artificial sweetener can cause diarrhea, vomiting, liver damage, seizures and even death. So, it’s important to know what ingredients are in the food you’re feeding your dog.

Marshmallows also contain sugar, which can lead to tooth decay and other health problems for dogs. While marshmallows may not necessarily be bad for dogs, they aren’t exactly good for them either. If you want to give your pup a treat, there are plenty of safe options available that won’t put their health at risk.
What Happens When a Dog Eats a Marshmallow
If you give a dog a marshmallow, he’ll probably eat it. Dogs love eating marshmallows, but they’re hard for them to swallow because of their small throats. To make sure they don’t choke on the marshmallow, dogs simply regurgitate it and chew it again. The concern is that this can lead to an inflamed esophagus or can result in a blockage.
In most circumstances, if your dog snatches one marshmallow from the kitchen counter, don’t be alarmed. He will most likely have an upset stomach for a while, but that’s about it. Nevertheless, never allow little puppies to get that fluffy sugary treat!
Can dogs eat marshmallows? Again, better not! If you give your dog marshmallows as dog food, you can be sure that you will pay more than one visit to your veterinarian.
Healthy Alternatives to Marshmallows
For your dog’s safety, refrain from feeding them marshmallows and other foods with artificial sweeteners. Instead, you can give them natural treats like apples or bananas as snacks (if they can tolerate it). If you want to be extra safe, only buy treats made specifically for dogs.
If you really want a sweet treat for your dear pooch, try homemade marshmallow peeps:
Once the treats are cooled, put them into a canning jar with a lid. That way, you can store your dog’s marshmallows in an airtight container until they’re ready to be eaten. You can then slightly heat up the can or bowl of homemade marshmallows when needed, so that you can give them as training treats or just because!
Don’t Forget! ⚠️
Never leave hot food around your pet because he could swallow it and burn his esophagus. All in all, don’t serve marshmallows to your pet on a regular basis. Instead, feed him carrots, apples and berries!
Quick Review: Are Marshmallows Bad for Dogs?
If you’re still wondering, “Can dogs eat marshmallows?”, the answer is a resounding no. Not only are they full of sugar, but they can also contain xylitol – which can be deadly to dogs. If you’re looking for a sweet snack that your canine can enjoy, then try some healthier sugar-free alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions
Are Jet Puffed Marshmallows Safe for Dogs?
Not really. They consist mainly of corn syrup, sugar and dextrose, which makes them a high-calorie, high-sugar treat that is bad for your dog’s health. But if they steal one or two, don’t worry – there is no xylitol in them.
How Many Marshmallows Can a Dog Have?
Preferably none, but if you must, then just 1–3. No more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake should come from treats, as more than that can lead to health problems. Make sure to only give your dog treats on special occasions, and stick to the recommended serving size.
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