Quick Answer
Dogs can eat small amounts of ice cream sandwiches as an occasional treat. However, ice cream sandwiches should not make up a significant part of a dog’s diet due to their high sugar and fat content. Too much can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and weight gain. It’s best to limit ice cream sandwiches to no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. Give your dog just a bite or two at a time.
Can Dogs Have Ice Cream Sandwiches?
Ice cream sandwiches are not toxic to dogs and most pups love the sweet cold treat. However, they are not the healthiest snack for canines.
Ice cream sandwiches contain sugar, fat, dairy, and chocolate or cookie ingredients. In moderation, none of these are necessarily harmful to dogs. However, too much can lead to digestive issues and obesity.
Here are some things to consider when giving your dog ice cream sandwiches:
Sugar Content
Ice cream is high in sugar, with around 20-25 grams per half cup serving. While a small taste is fine, too much sugar can cause diarrhea, vomiting, hyperactivity, and weight gain in dogs. Make sure treats do not exceed 10% of your dog’s daily calories.
Fat Content
Ice cream is high in fat, which gives it a creamy texture. However, excessive fat can lead to pancreatitis and other health issues in dogs. Limit high fat treats.
Dairy
Some dogs are lactose intolerant and may get gas or diarrhea from dairy products. Start with small amounts to see how your dog handles it. Lactose-free ice cream is an option as well.
Chocolate
Chocolate is toxic to dogs, causing vomiting, diarrhea, rapid breathing, irregular heart function, and seizures. Make sure to choose ice cream sandwiches with vanilla or other non-chocolate cookie wafers.
Other Ingredients
Some cookies contain raisins, nuts, xylitol, or other ingredients that can be problematic. Read labels carefully and avoid any potentially harmful add-ins.
Benefits of Ice Cream for Dogs
While ice cream sandwiches should only be an occasional treat, they do have some benefits when fed in moderation.
Mental Stimulation
Licking and chewing the frozen treat gives dogs mental stimulation and enrichment.
Cooling Effect
The cold ice cream can help overheated pups cool down on a hot day.
Weight Gain
The extra calories can help underweight dogs put on some needed pounds.
Bonding Experience
Sharing an ice cream sandwich can be a fun bonding moment between you and your dog.
Temporary Energy Boost
The sugar content provides a quick energy boost, which may be beneficial before activities like hiking, swimming, or dog sports.
Potential Health Risks
When feeding too many ice cream sandwiches, potential health risks for dogs include:
Pancreatitis
The high fat content can lead to inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain. Pancreatitis can be life-threatening.
Diarrhea
Too much dairy, fat, or sugar can cause loose stools or diarrhea. This leads to dehydration if severe.
Weight Gain & Obesity
Ice cream sandwiches are high in calories, which can lead to unhealthy weight gain over time. Obesity is linked to many diseases, including diabetes and arthritis.
Tooth Decay
The sugar sticks to teeth, potentially causing plaque buildup, tartar, and dental decay if not brushed properly.
Upset Stomach
Eating too quickly, lactose intolerance, or eating too much can give some dogs an upset stomach resulting in vomiting or lack of appetite.
Hyperactivity
The effects of sugar may cause hyperactive behavior in some dogs, especially as puppies.
| Health Risk | Signs & Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Pancreatitis | Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, lack of appetite, abdominal pain |
| Diarrhea | Loose or watery stools, dehydration |
| Weight gain/Obesity | Excessive weight, difficulty moving |
| Tooth decay | Bad breath, plaque/tartar, tooth pain |
| Upset stomach | Vomiting, lack of appetite |
| Hyperactivity | Restlessness, excitability |
Are Some Dogs More Prone to Issues?
Certain dogs are more likely to have problems handling ice cream sandwiches, including:
Puppies
Puppies have less tolerant digestive systems and lower calorie needs. Too many treats may lead to diarrhea.
Small Dogs
Since small dogs need fewer calories, it’s easier to overindulge them. Follow serving guidelines carefully based on weight.
Senior Dogs
Older dogs are more prone to weight gain and may have difficulty metabolizing sugars and fats. Go easy on treats.
Dogs Prone to Pancreatitis
Breeds like Schnauzers, Shepherds, and Collies are at higher risk. Limit fat intake.
Dogs with Diabetes
Avoid feeding ice cream to diabetic dogs, as sugar spikes blood glucose.
Overweight Dogs
Extra treats add excess calories to already obese dogs. Stick to low calorie snacks.
Active Dogs
Very active canines like Huskies may get hyper from the sugar. Save treats for low key days.
Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs
Some dogs get diarrhea easily. Try just a bite first.
Serving Guidelines
Here are some general guidelines on serving ice cream sandwiches safely:
Portion Size
– Small dogs: A lick or 1/2 of a mini cookie
– Medium dogs: 1/2 of a regular cookie
– Large dogs: 1 regular cookie sandwich
Frequency
– No more than 2-3 times per week
– Do not give on consecutive days
Calories
– Treats should total no more than 10% of daily calories
– For example, a 20 lb dog needs about 400 calories per day, so no more than 40 calories from treats
Supervision
– Give treats slowly and supervise your dog
– Prevent them from gobbling treats too quickly
Signs to Stop
– Cease treats if your dog gets diarrhea, seems hyper, or refuses regular food
| Dog Size | Portion Size |
|---|---|
| Small | Lick or 1/2 mini cookie |
| Medium | 1/2 regular cookie |
| Large | 1 regular cookie |
Healthier Ice Cream Treats
For dogs who can’t handle full ice cream sandwiches, there are some better options:
Lick Mats
Spread a thin layer of melted ice cream on a lick mat. As your dog licks the mat, they enjoy the taste without eating a large amount.
Ice Cream Mix-ins
Mix a small spoonful of ice cream into their regular food. This dilutes the sugar, fat, and dairy.
Frozen Yogurt or Frozen Fruit
Plain yogurt or frozen banana chunks have less fat and sugar than ice cream.
Low Fat Ice Cream
Choose a low fat, low sugar ice cream or gelato. Read labels carefully.
Homemade Dog Ice Cream
Recipes use dog-safe ingredients like bananas, yogurt, peanut butter, pumpkin, and low fat milk or broth.
Frozen Dog Treats
Frozen treats made for dogs contain fewer additives and empty calories.
Conclusion
Most dogs will beg for a tasty ice cream sandwich if given the chance. While ice cream shouldn’t be a regular part of their diet, the occasional small serving of a bite or two is generally fine for healthy dogs. Just be sure to watch for signs of stomach upset, weight gain, or hyperactivity. Limit treats to 10% of daily calories and avoid chocolate or toxic ingredients. With proper portion control and monitoring, sharing an ice cream sandwich can be a fun summertime indulgence you both enjoy! Consult your vet if you have any concerns over treats for your pup.