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Animal crackers are a favorite with kids (and some adults)! They’re cute and make a great snack on the go or at home. As your kids enjoy their animal crackers, we’re pretty sure your dog will be nearby and begging for his fair share! After all, these are called animal crackers, right? But what happens if a dog eats animal crackers?
Has your dog eaten animal crackers? Are you worried the animal crackers 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 gathered information about animal crackers and whether they can make a dog sick. Let’s get started!
What are Animal Crackers?
Animal crackers are a type of cookie that’s baked in the shape of an animal. These may be animals you see at the zoo or the circus, such as lions, bears, elephants, and more. The most common animal crackers are slightly sweet and crunchy without any frosting, etc. However, you can also find animal crackers made with chocolate and others that are frosted.
Animal crackers first became popular in the 19th century in Britain and the US. The crackers became hugely popular on both sides of the pond. And they’ve been popular ever since!
Animal crackers (depending on the brand) may include the following ingredients:
- Flour
- Sugar
- Canola oil
- Yellow corn flour
- Dextrose
- Fructose
- Calcium carbonate
- Baking soda
- Salt
- Natural & artificial flavor
- Soy lecithin
While animal crackers are considered safe for humans (in moderation), what about dogs? Can dogs safely eat animal crackers?
Animal Crackers & Dogs
Animal crackers are non-toxic to dogs if they don’t have xylitol or chocolate ingredients. However, these treats can be dangerous for dogs if they have animal crackers too often. Animal crackers contain sugar and oil that can cause diabetes, obesity, and other health issues.
In addition, dogs that eat too many animal crackers at one time may develop digestive issues. This may include diarrhea and vomiting. These symptoms should not last longer than 12 to 24 hours. If they do, it’s best to call the vet. Persistent diarrhea and vomiting can cause dehydration in dogs.
So, it’s OK to give your dog plain animal crackers, but make sure they are not made with xylitol. And never give your fur baby animal crackers made with chocolate or frosting. It’s OK for your canine companion to enjoy one or two plain animal crackers once in a while, but not more often. You’ll both be happier for it!
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Kyoko
Kyoko is from a family of 3 and moved to New York with her parents and siblings when she was 13. Kyoko is fond of spending a great amount of time with pets, specifically her beagle Luna and cat Missy. Her boyfriend often complains that she spends too much time giving attention to their animals. Kyoko has written dozens of articles concerning pets and is aiming at owning a pet shop one day!
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