Can Dogs Eat Peanut M&Ms? A Pet Owner's Guide

Can Dogs Eat Peanut M&Ms? A Pet Owner's Guide

As a pet owner, you want to give your dog treats and foods that are safe and healthy for them. But sometimes it can be confusing to figure out what human foods are okay for dogs to eat and which should be avoided. One common question dog owners have is whether dogs can eat peanut M&Ms.

Peanut M&Ms are a popular candy that combines chocolate, peanuts, and sweet candy coating. We love the taste, but are these treats safe for our canine companions? Or should peanut M&Ms be kept away from dogs?

In this article, we’ll explore whether dogs can eat peanut M&Ms, the potential health risks, safer treat alternatives, and tips to keep your dog happy and healthy.

Can Dogs Have Peanut M&Ms?

The short answer is no, dogs should not eat peanut M&Ms. While the peanuts themselves are not toxic to dogs, both the chocolate and candy coating in M&Ms pose potential health risks. Allowing your dog to eat peanut M&Ms could result in chocolate toxicity.

Dangers of Dogs Eating Chocolate

Chocolate contains two substances that can be dangerous to dogs - theobromine and caffeine. When eaten by dogs, the theobromine and caffeine can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst and urination, panting, high heart rate, tremors, seizures, and even death in severe cases.

Dark chocolate contains more theobromine than milk chocolate, making it more toxic. But all types of chocolate should be kept away from dogs.

The amount of chocolate that can cause chocolate toxicity depends on the size of the dog. Small dogs usually show symptoms with just 1-2 ounces of milk chocolate. Larger dogs can begin showing signs with 4-5 ounces depending on their weight.

With peanut M&Ms containing chocolate, it’s recommended to avoid giving them to dogs completely to prevent accidental chocolate toxicity.

Problems with Candy Coating

In addition to the chocolate, the hard candy shell on peanut M&Ms poses risks for dogs if consumed. Sugar itself is not toxic to dogs, but eating too much can cause digestive upset like vomiting or diarrhea. The bigger concern is the potential for choking.

The hard candy coating could get stuck in a dog's throat or obstruct their intestines if swallowed. This is especially dangerous for smaller dog breeds. Plus dogs' teeth can easily break the candy shell into sharp shards that could cut their mouth, throat, or stomach.

So the combination of chocolate and hard candy make peanut M&Ms a dangerous snack for dogs. There are much safer treat alternatives you can offer your pup.

Healthier Treats for Dogs

When looking for snack alternatives for dogs that are peanut and chocolate-free, here are some healthier options to consider:

• Pieces of fresh fruits like banana, apple, or watermelon
• Chopped carrots or green beans
• Lean meat like boiled chicken or turkey
• Unsalted popcorn
• Peanut butter (no xylitol)
• Low-fat cheese cubes
• Frozen yogurt in a Kong toy
• Unsalted nuts like almonds, cashews or peanut pieces

There are also many store-bought treats made specifically for dogs that are designed to be nutritious and safe. Look for options that are low in fat, sugar, and salt.

What If a Dog Eats Peanut M&Ms?

If your dog manages to eat peanut M&Ms, either stored somewhere accessible or eaten from the trash, take action quickly. The sooner treatment begins, the better the outcome.

For mild cases, call your veterinarian and monitor your dog closely for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity, increased thirst, panting and restlessness. These are signs of chocolate toxicity.

If your dog ate more than 2 ounces of milk chocolate per pound of body weight, or any dark chocolate, you should induce vomiting and immediately take them to the vet clinic. They may give your dog medication to treat poisoning and provide supportive care.

Be prepared to tell the vet how much chocolate your dog ate and when. Fast action can help avoid serious complications. Don't wait to see if symptoms develop.

Keeping Your Dog Safe

The best approach is to prevent your dog from eating chocolate containing products like peanut M&Ms. Here are some tips to keep your pup safe and healthy:

• Store human food like candy out of your dog's reach on high shelves or in cabinets.
• Keep trash cans covered or behind closed doors so dogs can't get into them.
• Avoid leaving chocolate unattended in bags or boxes.
• Teach children not to share candy with pets.
• Walk your property to look for cocoa mulch or baking chocolate that may have been dropped.
• Read ingredient lists carefully on products labeled as "dog treats".

Taking precautions allows you to enjoy sweet treats without worrying about your dog accidentally eating something harmful.

The Bottom Line

Can dogs eat peanut M&Ms? Veterinarians strongly recommend keeping all chocolate products away from dogs to prevent poisoning. Both the chocolate and candy coating pose risks, including digestive upset, choking, or toxicity.

While peanut M&Ms may look tasty, stick with offering safer snacks that your dog will enjoy just as much. Monitoring what your dog has access to and reading labels is key to their continued good health.

With care and vigilance, you can give your canine companion a long, happy life together filled with cuddles, playtime, and plenty of dog-safe treats!

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.