Dog Care
Can Dogs Eat Marshmallows? The Xylitol Warning
No, dogs shouldn't eat marshmallows. Regular marshmallows aren't toxic, but they are almost pure sugar and offer nothing your dog needs. The real danger is sugar-free marshmallows made with xylitol, a sweetener that can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar and liver damage in dogs. If your dog ate a sugar-free product, call your vet straight away.
Why marshmallows are bad for dogs
- Xylitol. Some sugar-free and "keto" marshmallows use xylitol, also listed as birch sugar. Even small amounts can be life-threatening for dogs, according to the ASPCA.
- Sugar. Regular marshmallows are sugar and corn syrup. They can upset the stomach and add empty calories, which matters for overweight or diabetic dogs.
- Choking. Large marshmallows are soft and sticky and can be a choking risk if gulped.
- What they come with. Marshmallows often appear with chocolate (s'mores, hot chocolate, rocky road), and chocolate is toxic to dogs.
The American Kennel Club also advises keeping marshmallows away from dogs.
My dog ate marshmallows: what to do
| What was eaten | What to do |
|---|---|
| Sugar-free marshmallows, or you're not sure | Check the label for xylitol or birch sugar. If it's there or you can't check, call your vet or an animal poison control line now. |
| Marshmallows with chocolate | Call your vet with your dog's weight and how much chocolate was eaten. |
| One or two regular marshmallows | Usually fine. Offer water and watch for vomiting or diarrhoea. |
| A whole bag of regular marshmallows | Watch closely and call your vet if there is vomiting, diarrhoea, a bloated belly or lethargy. Check whether the bag was eaten too. |
Signs of xylitol poisoning can start within 30 minutes to a few hours and include vomiting, weakness, wobbliness, collapse and seizures. Don't wait for signs if you know xylitol was eaten.
Other foods that can contain xylitol
Sugar-free gum and mints, some peanut and nut butters, sugar-free sweets and baked goods, some toothpastes, and some medicines and vitamins. Always read labels before sharing, and check foods quickly with our can my dog eat this? food checker.
Sweet-tasting treats dogs can have instead
- Banana slices
- Frozen blueberries
- Seedless watermelon cubes, rind removed
- Fresh pineapple, peeled and cored
- Plain pumpkin purée frozen in an ice cube tray
Frequently asked questions
Are marshmallows toxic to dogs?
Regular marshmallows are not toxic but are high in sugar. Sugar-free marshmallows that contain xylitol are dangerous and need a vet straight away.
My dog ate one marshmallow. Is that okay?
One regular marshmallow is unlikely to cause harm. Check the packet for xylitol; if it contains xylitol, call your vet immediately.
Can dogs eat marshmallow fluff or Rice Krispies treats?
They aren't recommended. Both are high in sugar and add nothing useful. Check labels for xylitol and chocolate.
Can dogs eat vegan or gelatin-free marshmallows?
They carry the same sugar concerns, and some may use other sweeteners. Check the label and skip them.
Can cats eat marshmallows?
No. Cats can't taste sweetness and get no benefit from sugar.
Sources
Guidance follows the American Kennel Club and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. This article is general information, not veterinary advice.
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