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Granola bars are extremely popular with many pet parents. They make a great snack or a quick meal on the go. And we’re pretty sure if a dog sees you eating a granola bar, he’s going to beg for his fair share! But are granola bars safe for dogs to eat?
Has your dog eaten a granola bar? Are you worried the granola bar will make your dog sick? If so, you’ve come to the right place. We understand it can be scary when your dog eats something like this.
We’ve put together information about granola bars and whether they can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What are Granola Bars?
Granola bars are a snack or meal replacement that is often seen as healthy. They’re usually made with grain as a base (such as oats, rice, and other whole grains). The bars may also contain nuts, seeds, dried fruits, and other ingredients and sweeteners to give them a great taste and make them healthier.
While granola bars are safe for humans (in moderation), what about dogs? Can dogs eat granola bars?
Granola Bars & Dogs
The answer as to whether granola bars can make a dog sick depends on the ingredients used in the bar. Many bars contain whole grains, such as rice, oats, and more. It is possible the bar could contain enough fiber to cause diarrhea in a dog. In that case, the dog would probably have diarrhea for a limited time and then be OK.
However, granola bars may also contain ingredients that are harmful or toxic to dogs, including:
Nuts: macadamia nuts are toxic to dogs, while other nuts are high in fat which is bad for dogs; some dogs may also be allergic to certain nuts
Fruit: some granola bars include fruit or dried fruit. Grapes and raisins are highly toxic to dogs
Artificial sweeteners: granola bars may also be sweetened with xylitol, which is highly toxic to dogs, though other artificial sweeteners are pretty safe for them
Chocolate: some granola bars also include chocolate in some form, such as chocolate drizzling, coating, or chips. Chocolate is highly toxic to dogs; however, one bar wouldn’t contain enough chocolate to cause death; they could, however, cause digestive issues.
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Ask a Vet Live NowWhat to Do If Your Dog Has Eaten a Granola Bar
First, be sure to check the ingredients of the granola bar packaging. If the granola bar doesn’t contain any toxic ingredients, monitor your dog. It is possible he could develop vomiting and diarrhea after eating a granola bar. In that case, these issues should resolve within 24 to 48 hours. If not, then be sure to call the vet.
Next, if the granola bar does contain ingredients that are toxic to your dog, call the vet immediately. Don’t wait until your dog begins to show symptoms. Follow the vet’s advice and directions.
The good news is that most dogs will make a full recovery after eating a granola bar! However, it’s best to keep these snacks out of your dog’s reach. Prevention is always the best medicine!
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Tom
Tom has always loved to write since he was little - he wanted to be either a writer or a veterinary doctor, but he ended up being a professional writer while most of his works are based on animals. He was born in San Francisco but later moved to Texas to continue his job as a writer. He graduated from the University of San Francisco where he studied biotechnology. He is happily married and a soon to be father!
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