Is Halloween Candy Safe for Dogs?

Learn what treats are safe this Halloween (and which aren’t). 

Halloween is almost here, and like you, your dog would love some sweet treats. The trick is knowing what is good and what’s not for your treat-loving pup. Caring for your dog goes beyond grooming and bathing. This article will reveal which types of Halloween treats are safe for dogs, which aren’t, what to do if your dog gets into something they shouldn’t, and even dog-safe treats you can create yourself.

A little goes a long way

Remember that just like people, dogs shouldn’t eat sweets in excess. Keep the treats to 10 grams or less. Sweets are best in small amounts! Below is a list of dog-approved Halloween treats:

• Candy corn

• Skittles

• Sour candy

• Lemonheads

• Starburst

• Smarties

• Jolly ranchers

Remember that there are plenty of safer treats you can give your pup. While the list above is technically safe in small amounts, avoiding Halloween candy altogether is the better, safer choice.

What about chocolate?

What about one of the most ubiquitous Halloween treats of all, chocolate? Because chocolate comes in so many shapes, sizes, and brands, it seems like it’s everywhere during Halloween. While tiny amounts of chocolate may be acceptable for large dogs, it’s still highly toxic. Most experts simply recommend keeping your dog away from chocolate.

Why is chocolate so bad for dogs? Because of its theobromine content, which is very similar to caffeine. Most experts are quick to point out that caffeine speeds up the heart and can cause seizures. Caffeine can even cause death if the dog is not treated properly after consuming it.

Theobromine mimics these effects. Therefore, chocolate can cause your dog to vomit and can lead to the same serious health consequences as ingesting caffeine.

Treats to avoid at all costs

There are some treats your dog should never have. Even the smallest amount can have devastating effects on your pup, regardless of their size. The treats on this list have a sweetener called xylitol. It’s an ingredient that’s poisonous to all dogs. Like chocolate, this substance can be deadly to dogs.

Xylitol can cause low blood sugar in dogs. Also, like chocolate, xylitol can cause seizures and death. Always check the ingredients on any human treats you’re considering giving to your dog. Never give the following treats to your pup: 

• Bubble gum

• Gummy bears

• Raisins and grapes – These fruits can cause kidney failure in dogs

• Raisinets – They combine chocolate and raisins; both big no-nos for dogs

• Sugar-free treats sweetened with xylitol

What to do if your dog gets into harmful Halloween treats

If your dog eats something toxic to their system, call a vet right away. The effects of chocolate can take some time to show up. Xylitol often produces a much faster effect, often in under an hour.

If you suspect your pup has gotten into something they shouldn’t, look for signs of abdominal pain. If your dog vomits or refuses to drink water, consider those critical warning signs. Diarrhea is another sign that your dog may not be feeling well after eating something they shouldn’t.

Prevention is the best policy

If you have children that go trick-or-treating, they will probably come home with a big pile of sweets. In the excitement of the sugar-infused haul of goodies, they may toss their bag of candy on the couch or kitchen table to sort through their haul. To keep your dog safe, keep the candy out of their reach.

Even small dogs can reach certain heights. One well-placed paw can quickly snag a tasty treat, leading to disaster. Keep all candy secured in a dog-proof container that’s well out of reach of curious pups.

Use a locking trash can for candy waste. Candy wrappers can be tempting to dogs. The candy scents on the wrappers may cause your dog to eat one, leading to a blockage or other emergency. Use a locking trash can lid to keep your dog safe and out of trouble.

Make sure everyone in your house understands how important it is to keep your dog safe. Young children can sometimes feel tempted to give a dog a treat because they “look so sad.” Make it clear to everyone how harmful these treats (and their wrappers) are to dogs.

How to make your dog a healthy Halloween treat 

As Halloween approaches, you can find a recipe online for a dog-friendly cake to make. Ensure it is from a reputable website. Don’t substitute a human cake recipe. 

You can also find complete kits for dog-friendly cakes at your local pet store. The best kits come with all the ingredients in the proper proportions along with recommended serving sizes.

Keep your dog safe this Halloween 

Remember that routine dog care includes all aspects of keeping your pup safe and healthy. Being mindful of what your dog eats will help you feel confident that you’re doing right by him or her. 

Want another pair of eyes (and hands) to look out for your dog? With a Monthly Care Club membership, Scenthound will take care of your pup’s basic hygiene needs and alert you to anything that seems troublesome. Use our handy location finder to locate the Scenter closest to you.