This is a common question that many dog owners have. Cookies and other sweets are often tempting to share with our furry friends. But dogs have different nutritional needs than humans, so it’s important to understand how sugar cookies may affect them before offering any.
Can dogs eat sugar cookies at all?
The simple answer is yes, dogs can eat small amounts of sugar cookies on occasion. Cookies are typically safe for dogs to consume in moderation. Just be sure to only feed them plain sugar cookies, as chocolate, raisins, nuts, and some other cookie mix-ins can be toxic to dogs.
However, while sugar cookies aren’t necessarily toxic for dogs, they provide very limited nutritional value. Cookies are essentially just sugar, flour, and fat, none of which contribute much to a dog’s health. Too many can lead to obesity and dental issues.
Are sugar cookies good for dogs?
Sugar cookies are considered more of a treat than a part of a dog’s regular diet. They provide empty calories and extra sugar that dogs don’t need. Some specific concerns with feeding dogs too many sugar cookies include:
- Weight gain – Cookies are high in fat, calories, and sugar. Too many can quickly lead to obesity.
- Dental problems – Baking destroys the crunchy texture, leaving a soft cookie that sticks to teeth. This allows plaque and bacteria to build up.
- Blood sugar spikes – The high sugar content results in rapid rises in blood glucose, which can be dangerous for diabetic dogs.
- Nutritional imbalance – Cookies provide almost no beneficial nutrients dogs require like protein, vitamins, and minerals.
So while the occasional small cookie won’t harm an otherwise healthy dog, they do not offer much, if any nutritional benefit. There are many better treat alternatives that are safer and more nutritious for dogs.
How much is safe for a dog to eat?
When given in moderation, most dogs can handle a small amount of sugar cookie one or two times per week. Exactly how much cookie depends on the size of the dog:
| Dog Size | Max Cookie Size |
|---|---|
| Small breeds | 1 inch diameter |
| Medium breeds | 2 inch diameter |
| Large breeds | 3 inch diameter |
For a 10 pound Chihuahua, a bite size piece is more than enough. While a Great Dane could handle a full cookie 3 inches across. Keep the amount less than 5% of their daily caloric intake.
It’s also best practice to break treats into pieces so the dog has to chew, rather than gulping it down. This slows them down and is better for digestion.
Health risks of too many sugar cookies
Feeding too many cookies can negatively impact a dog’s health in these ways:
- Tooth decay and gum disease from excess sugar
- Upset stomach, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Inflammation and obesity leading to joint issues or heart disease
- Diabetes from blood sugar and insulin spikes
- Nutritional deficiencies from empty calories replacing healthier foods
- Hyperactivity, anxiety, or behavior issues from sugar highs and crashes
Dogs who are obese, have diabetes, or are elderly should avoid sugar cookies completely. Seek advice from your vet for dog-specific health concerns.
Healthier Treat Alternatives for Dogs
Rather than sugar cookies, consider these healthier options:
Fresh fruits and vegetables
Many dogs love bites of fresh produce. Try pieces of apple, banana, carrot, green beans, or watermelon. Be sure to avoid grapes, raisins, avocado, onions, or anything moldy. Chop into bite sizes.
Frozen treats
Create homemade popsicles by blending and freezing no-sugar-added yogurt, pumpkin, banana, or peanut butter. Store bought frozen treats for dogs are another safe option.
Jerky treats and dental chews
Look for all-natural jerky without preservatives or seasonings. Sweet potato or pumpkin flavored are tasty choices. Or try treats and chews made specifically for dental health.
Kong toys
Stuff a Kong toy with a small amount of peanut butter, mashed banana, or low-fat cream cheese. Freeze overnight for a longer lasting healthy treat. The dog has to work to access the filling.
Training treats
Tiny commercial training treats are designed to reward dogs without providing excess calories. Look for soft and chewy options that are low in fat and sugar.
Tips for Giving Dogs Cookie Treats
Here are some dos and don’ts when providing the occasional sugar cookie as a special treat:
- Do break into small pieces so the dog has to chew thoroughly.
- Do pick plain cookies. Avoid those with chocolate, raisins, macadamia nuts.
- Do stay with your dog to monitor eating and behavior after.
- Don’t allow access to the whole batch. Only give one at a time.
- Don’t give cookies every day. Stick to no more than twice a week.
- Don’t feed cookies to a dog with dietary issues unless approved by your vet.
It’s also smart to adjust their main meals on days when cookie treats are given to prevent overfeeding. Follow suggested cookie size guidelines based on the dog’s weight and breed size.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the majority of dogs can have a small amount of plain sugar cookie no more than twice per week as an occasional treat in moderation. Break the cookie into bite sized pieces before feeding based on dog’s size. Avoid chocolate chip or other modified cookies. While a little bit generally won’t harm them, cookies offer no real nutritional benefits, so they shouldn’t make up a regular part of a dog’s diet. There are many healthier and safer alternatives for a dog treat or snack that pet owners should consider first. Always check with your veterinarian for any specific concerns regarding your dog and sugar consumption. Follow suggested treat guidelines and monitor for any signs of GI upset afterwards. With a little extra care and moderation, special cookie treats can be shared and enjoyed safely between pet owners and dogs.