Like humans, our furry friends are omnivorous. This means they derive nutrients from plant and animal materials. However, this does not mean they can eat fruit snacks.
Although the term fruit snack sounds like something healthy. The truth is, most are not healthy and comprise no fruits. Most fruit snacks boast high calories and sugar levels, which makes them unhealthy for dogs.
Besides, they contain preservatives, synthetic dyes, and artificial flavorings, which might prove harmful to your furry friend. After consuming high quantities of fruit snacks, dogs can suffer from illnesses like diabetes, diarrhea, and obesity.
That said, this short, yet comprehensive guide will try to answer the question “Can Dogs Eat Fruit Snacks”. But before we dive in, let’s briefly define a fruit snack.
What Are Fruit Snacks?
Fruit snacks are delicious treats made from a blend of either natural or artificial ingredients. Sometimes, they might contain essential minerals and vitamins. The shape of fruit snacks varies depending on the brand. Some come in discs shape while others in rings shape.
Sugar is the major component of most fruit nibbles. More specifically refined sugar, which is often obtained from fruit concentrates. To complete the process, manufacturers add natural or artificial dyes, flavors, and preservatives.
Are Fruit Snacks Bad for Dogs?
The simple answer is yes! Fruit snacks might not kill your pup, but over time they might lead to several health problems. This is true, especially if your dog consumes too many treats over an extended period.
Artificial preservatives and sweeteners in fruit snacks might cause several health issues for your dog, including diabetes, periodontal disease, pancreatitis, and obesity. Yes! dogs can get obese too. Also, some fruit ingredients might cause inflammation of the dog’s body organs like the Kidney.
Can Dogs Eat Welch’s Fruit Snacks?
Welch’s fruit snacks consist mainly of refined sugar and fruit puree. Both ingredients might harm your canine’s health. Additionally, high sugar intake can cause dental problems such as tooth decay, among other mentioned illnesses.
Can Dogs Eat Mott’s Fruit Snacks?
No! dogs should not eat Mott’s fruit snacks too. The high sugar levels in the treats from corn syrup make the snacks unsuitable for dog consumptions. Also, the concentrated juice in Mott’s fruit snacks is unhealthy for a dog.
Although you might get tempted to share your delicious treats with your furry friend, don’t! You will only increase the dog’s susceptibility to weight gain, obesity, and diabetes.
Can Dogs Consume Gummy Fruit Snacks?
Like most fruit snacks, gummies contain high sugar levels, calories, artificial flavorings, and harmful dyes. These ingredients might not sit well with your dog. So, keep your dog away from these snacks as much as possible. You’re better off buying your canine friend dog treats designed to meet his nutritional needs.
What Makes Fruit Snacks Unhealthy for Dogs?
The ingredients obviously. Yes! Your pooch can enjoy minerals and vitamins, but the other fruit snacks ingredients will cancel those benefits.
Fruit snacks are designed for human consumption, not for dogs. Here is a list of fruit snacks ingredients that might not sit well with dogs.
Ingredients That Make Fruit Snacks Unhealthy for Dogs
1. Corn Syrups
They are heavily processed sweeteners that come from glucose and fructose. The high sugar levels affect the dog’s digestive system. It affects the balance of gut bacteria, preventing proper digestion. Therefore, your pub might develop diarrhea or end up vomiting. Other side effects include:
- Dental issues
- Hormonal imbalances
- Weight gain
- Inflammation of body organs
- Pancreatitis
- Fruit Concentrates
Fruit concentrates are obtained by squeezing out water from the original fruit. Concentrated sugar remains, which might prove unhealthy for your dog’s health.
2. Fruit Purees
While you can provide your dog with fresh fruit puree, fruit snacks contain fruit puree mixed with harmful substances. Therefore, they are no longer healthy or safe for dog consumption. They also lack dietary fiber, meaning they have no nutritional value to your furry friend. If you want your dog to enjoy fruit puree, consider making some at home.
3. Modified Corn
These chemically modified corn starches make fruit snacks more stable and thicker. As a result, they have no specific health risk to dogs or humans. However, they add no nutritional value to the dog as well.
4. Artificial Flavors
As the name suggests, the flavors are processed in the lab to mimic natural flavors. While they make fruit snacks taste delicious, the chemicals might prove dangerous to your dog. As a fact, it can lead to seizures and other health conditions when consumed in high amounts.
5. Citric Acid
A dog’s stomach does not do too well with this acid. Large quantities of citric acid will cause stomach upsets. And if that is not scary enough, large quantities can lead to a complete nervous system breakdown.
What Happens When A Dog Consumes Fruit Snacks?
Fear and anxiety are expected when a dog eats a fruit snack. But if the amount taken is little, you don’t need to worry so much. There is a higher probability that it will be passed out through vomiting or stool.
At the same time, it’s imperative to observe your dog for a while. If he displays abnormal behavior such as unusual inactiveness or sudden loss of appetite, visit a veterinarian. You should also consult a vet if he develops cardiovascular issues like difficulty in breathing, increased breathing rate, and coughing.
Healthy Alternative Fruit Snacks for Dogs
Rather than giving your dog a fruit snack, it is better to provide them with real fruits because they are healthier. Feed them with some vegetables to increase their essential vitamins and minerals.
If your dog loves vegetables and fruits, there are some healthy options, including guava, honeydew, carrots, and so on. However, keep your dog away from resins and grapes since they are highly toxic.
For a balanced diet, it’s wise to include certain fruits in your dog’s meal. But if your dog suffers from diabetes, obesity, and bladder stones, consult a vet first.
Below is a list of healthy fruits your furry friend will enjoy:
1. Apples
Apples are rich in vitamin A and C. They also contain dietary fiber that helps in digestion and maintaining a healthy weight in dogs.
2. Pineapples
Pineapple will provide your dog with several minerals, vitamins, and fiber. Besides, it contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids in protein absorption in dogs. It is a great treat if your dog has a sweet tooth.
3. Blueberries
Blueberries come packed with antioxidants, fiber, and phytochemicals. These ingredients make the fruit a superfood since they help boost cell health. Blueberries also enhance the dog’s night vision and improve its cognitive abilities.
4. Bananas
Banana is one of the best fruits for dogs since it contains a significant amount of minerals. It contains copper, vitamins, biotin, potassium, and other minerals. These components are essential for your pet’s health, especially young pups. But only give them in moderation.
5. Strawberries
Strawberries come with a tooth whitening enzyme. The enzyme will discolor your canine’s crown, resulting in white, shining teeth. Besides that, the fruit is packed with fiber, vitamin C, and potassium. Furthermore, they help improve your dog’s immune system. While feeding this fruit to your dog, chop the strawberries into small pieces to prevent instances of choking.
6. Oranges
Yes! Dogs eat oranges too. It is a great snack that provides dogs with vitamin C and potassium. It is, however, worth noting that not all dogs love oranges. Also, too many oranges might cause gastrointestinal problems.
Also Read: Do Fruits Snacks Expire? (Secrets You Need to Know)
Conclusion
Based on the above information, any responsible dog owner should avoid feeding their dogs fruit snacks. They contain ingredients harmful to dogs’ health, like citric acid, artificial flavors, and sugar.
It’s imperative to understand which snacks are healthy for your dogs. This way, you can prevent unforeseen health issues like diabetes, hormonal imbalances, and others. On that note, there are several fruits and vegetables your dog can enjoy, like apples, carrots, honeydew, and strawberries.
FAQs
Are Fruit Snacks Healthy for Puppies?
No! Fruit snacks contain sugar, preservatives, and artificial colors that are harmful to your dog’s health.
Which Fruits Are Healthy for Dogs?
Some fruits like strawberries, apples, peaches, and pineapples are healthy for your dog. However, raisins and grapes might harm your furry friend’s health.
What Action Should You Take When Your Dog Eats a Fruit Snack?
If your canine friend has consumed a fruit snack, observe it for a while. In case he develops any cardiovascular issues or unusual behaviors, take him to a vet immediately.
Dogs are curious creatures, and they might get tempted to take a bite of your fruit snacks. So, keep your fruit snacks away from your dog.