TailVilleWhy
Regular candy isn't toxic, but the sugar causes vomiting and diarrhea, and hard, round candies are choking hazards. Sugar-free candies, throat lozenges and mints often contain xylitol, which causes dangerous low blood sugar and liver damage in dogs. Chocolate candies carry chocolate poisoning risk. Swallowed lollipop sticks and wrappers can cause blockages.
How to give it / if eaten
Don't give it. One regular candy just needs watching. If your pet ate sugar-free or xylitol candy, chocolate candy, or several wrapped candies, grab the package and call your vet right away.
Watch for these signs
Sugar causes vomiting or diarrhea. With xylitol, low blood sugar signs can appear within 30 minutes to a few hours: vomiting, weakness, wobbliness, tremors and seizures. A stuck candy causes gagging and labored breathing.
FAQ
My dog ate a throat lozenge.
Lozenges often contain xylitol or menthol. Check the ingredient list and call your vet right away. See our xylitol page too.
My dog ate a lollipop, stick and all.
The stick won't digest and can cause a blockage. Watch for vomiting, poor appetite or constipation and call your vet for advice.
General information only. Weight, age and health conditions change how a pet reacts, so ask your vet if you are worried.