Many dog owners love to give their furry friends treats like cookies. Cookies can be a tasty reward and way to bond with your dog. However, there are some important things to consider before freely handing out cookies to dogs. In this article, we’ll explore the key questions around feeding dogs cookies and provide tips on doing it safely and responsibly.
Can dogs eat cookies?
The short answer is yes, dogs can eat some types of cookies in moderation. Cookies specifically made for dogs are the safest choice. Many brands produce dog cookies using dog-safe ingredients and recipes. Some examples include:
- Milk-Bone dog biscuits
- Blue Buffalo BLUE Bits soft-moist training treats
- Wellness WellBites soft dog treats
- Cloud Star Tricky Trainers dog treats
These cookies are designed to be healthy, tasty, and digestible for dogs. Human cookies, on the other hand, may contain ingredients that are unsafe for dogs, like chocolate, raisins, nuts, and artificial sweeteners. We’ll discuss these in more detail later.
What human foods and ingredients are unsafe for dogs?
Dogs’ bodies don’t process foods the same way humans’ do. Here are some common human foods that could be dangerous or even toxic to dogs:
- Chocolate – Contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to dogs
- Nuts – Can cause digestive issues or pancreatitis
- Raisins and grapes – Can cause kidney failure in dogs
- Onions and garlic – Damage red blood cells leading to anemia
- Xylitol – An artificial sweetener that is extremely toxic to dogs
- Macadamia nuts – Can affect dogs’ muscles and nervous system
So if a cookie contains any of those ingredients, it should absolutely be kept away from dogs. Let’s look at some other considerations around cookies for dogs.
Are milk chocolate and dark chocolate bad for dogs?
Yes, both milk chocolate and dark chocolate are unsafe for dogs. Here’s a breakdown of how the two types of chocolate compare:
| Chocolate Type | Theobromine Content | Toxic Dosage for Dogs |
| Milk chocolate | 44 mg per oz | 1 oz per lb of body weight |
| Dark chocolate | 150 mg per oz | 0.3 oz per lb of body weight |
As the table shows, dark chocolate contains significantly more theobromine per ounce, making it more toxic for dogs. But any amount or type of chocolate should be avoided, as even small ingestions can make dogs ill.
Can dogs eat cookies with raisins or macadamia nuts?
No, it’s never safe to give dogs cookies containing raisins or macadamia nuts. Just a small amount of these ingredients can cause serious health issues. Some specifics:
- Raisins – As few as 5-10 grapes or raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs.
- Macadamia nuts – Only 2 ounces of macadamia nuts can make a 20-pound dog very ill.
It’s simply not worth the risk. Always check cookie ingredients carefully and avoid these at all costs.
Do dog cookies have to be soft and chewy?
Dog cookies come in a variety of textures, so they don’t have to be soft or chewy. Crunchy biscuit-style cookies are very popular with dogs. Some other common textures include:
- Chewy or sticky cookie dough-like textures
- Soft and moist cookies
- Hard and crunchy biscuits
- Puffed or airy cookies
The right texture comes down to your dog’s personal preferences. Try out different kinds of dog cookies to see which textures they seem to like best. Senior dogs with dental issues may prefer softer cookies. Puppies still learning to chew appreciate soft treats too.
What is the best healthiest dog cookie?
There are lots of healthy dog cookie options on the market. Here are some things to look for in the healthiest dog cookies:
- Main ingredient is whole meat or fish
- Contains beneficial ingredients like probiotics, turmeric, or flaxseed
- No artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives
- No wheat, corn, soy, or by-products
- Lower in fat and calories
Some top-rated healthy brands based on these criteria include Zuke’s, Canidae Life Stages, and Old Mother Hubbard. Consulting your vet for specific recommendations based on your dog’s needs is also a great idea.
Can diabetic dogs eat cookies?
It depends. Some cookies may be OK for dogs with diabetes, but it’s important to discuss options with your veterinarian. Here are some guidelines around diabetes and dog cookies:
- Avoid cookies with added sugar
- Choose treats made with whole grains like oats or barley
- Look for low glycemic options like chickpeas, egg, or pumpkin
- Always count treats as part of daily calorie intake
- Monitor blood glucose carefully when introducing new treats
Diabetic dogs may be able to enjoy cookies in strict moderation as long as glucose levels stay controlled. But have your vet’s approval first.
How many cookies should a dog eat per day?
The amount of cookies a dog can eat per day depends on factors like their size, age, and activity level. Here are some general daily treat guidelines based on weight:
| Dog Weight | Daily Treats |
| 10 lbs or less | 2 treats or less |
| 11-25 lbs | 3 treats or less |
| 26-50 lbs | 4 treats or less |
| Over 50 lbs | 5 treats or less |
In general, treats should make up no more than 10% of a dog’s daily calories. Break treats into smaller pieces if needed to limit portion size. Choose low calorie options and adjust amounts based on your individual dog’s needs.
What size should dog cookies be?
Dog cookie size should be proportional to your dog’s size, with smaller treats for little dogs and larger sizes for big breeds. Here are some general cookie size guidelines based on weight:
- Under 10 lbs – Treats smaller than a dime
- 10-25 lbs – Treats the size of a nickel
- 25-50 lbs – Treats the size of a quarter
- Over 50 lbs – Treats the size of a half dollar coin or larger
Smaller cookies are a lower choking risk and allow for better portion control. Make sure to select cookie sizes appropriate for your dog or break larger cookies into more manageable pieces before feeding.
Can puppies eat cookies?
Puppies generally can start enjoying safe dog cookies in moderation around 12-16 weeks old. Look for options specifically marketed for puppies, which provide age-appropriate nutrition. Here are some puppy cookie guidelines:
- Wait until finished with puppy shots
- Start with small bite-sized pieces
- Feed cookies separately from meals
- Gradually increase treat amounts as puppy grows
- Pick low calorie options to avoid overfeeding
- Monitor stool consistency when introducing new treats
Go slowly and pay attention to any digestive issues. Consult your veterinarian with any concerns.
Conclusion
Dogs can enjoy dog cookies safely and in moderation if you choose options made for canine health and follow some basic treat guidelines. Always check ingredients to avoid potentially toxic items like chocolate, raisins, nuts, and artificial sweeteners. Discuss any special needs or restrictions with your veterinarian for personalized advice. With the right treats and approach, cookies can be a fun and bonding experience for both you and your furry friend!