It’s not just us humans who have a craving for something sweet.
Sweets and tasty snacks are some of a dog’s very favorite things.
Similar to Mike and Ikes, airhead candies are often requested sweets during celebrations, events, and holidays such as Halloween.
Additionally, you may get them in gas stations and convenience stores.
In this piece, we will provide an answer to the frequently asked question, “Can dogs eat airheads?”
Are airheads safe?
Which ingredients should you worry about?
If you’d like to learn more, continue reading.
What Are Airheads?
Airheads is an Italian-Dutch company’s American taffy brand.
Steve Bruner created them in 1985.
Airheads are sold in 16 flavors across the U.S. and Canada.
They are a chewy candy, still a favorite to kids (and sometimes dogs).
Can Dogs Eat Airheads?
Yes. Your dog can safely eat Airheads. As long as your dog doesn’t seem to have difficulty digesting them.
Keep in mind that dogs who consume too much sugar from airheads may experience unintended health issues like:
- Dental problems
- Weight gain
- Diabetes
You’ll be happy to know that airheads don’t contain any allergens like peanuts or tree nuts.
If, on the other hand, your dog has an allergy to wheat, then this might not be the best option for a sweet treat for your dog.
In the production of Airheads, the following types of wheat are used:
- Wheat flour
- Corn starch
- Potato starch
Why Should You Avoid Airhead Gums?
While the normal airhead taffies are fine for your dogs, we recommend you steer clear of the airhead gums.
The xylitol that can be found in gums is poisonous for your dogs.
Xylitol makes up 30 percent of each piece of airhead gum. This equates to 0.72 grams for each piece that is 2.4 grams.
Do Airheads Have Xylitol?
Yes, xylitol can be found in some flavors of airheads gum.
You have a responsibility to check the airhead gum that you give to your dog to ensure that it does not contain any xylitol. If it does, your dog runs the risk of becoming gravely ill or even passing away as a result of the toxic substance.
Not only can xylitol be harmful to dogs because it causes digestive issues in them, but it also has the potential to cause hypoglycemia, which is a severe lack of glucose in the blood.
You are probably aware that sugar is extremely poisonous to dogs, but xylitol takes this danger to a whole new level because it is also extremely harmful to them.
Airheads are not intended to be given to dogs on a regular basis as a treat; in point of fact, they are designed more for people than for canines. Instead, you should try giving your dog a bone or some rawhide.
What About the Sugar in Airheads?
When you combine xylitol with sugar, which already causes diabetes and obesity in dogs, your dog will most likely die as a result of the toxic effects of the combined substances.
Are airheads poisonous to dogs?
The airheads taffy candy is ok for your dog to eat, but the gum is poisonous.
As previously mentioned, this is due to the Xylitol in the gum.
Even a small amount of the toxic substance entering your dog’s bloodstream can cause serious illness in dogs.
If you insist on giving your dog airhead candies, keep the serving size to no more than 10 grams to avoid putting your dog’s digestive system at risk of serious harm.
Signs of Xylitol Poisoning
The following are possible early signs of hypoglycemia in your dog:
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Seizures
- Lack of coordination
- Tremors
- Coma
Contact the Pet Poison Helpline or your veterinarian if you suspect your dog has xylitol poisoning.
As soon as possible, get your dog the help he needs.
Don’t try to force your dog to vomit unless you’ve been specifically instructed to do so by an expert.
Maize starch, wheat flour, and potato food starch are among the wheat ingredients in Airheads. If your dog is allergic to wheat, this is not the best treat for him.
Toxic dog treats may also include the following:
Chocolate
Your pet will be poisoned if you give it dark chocolate. Theobromine, an ingredient in chocolate, is known to cause seizures, heart arrhythmias, and upset stomach in dogs.
Raisin and Grapes
Dogs are susceptible to kidney failure due to the consumption of these fruits.
Grapes and raisins are two of the most toxic foods to ever give your pet.
Caffeine
If your dog consumes caffeine, they are putting themselves in the same dangerous situation as if they had eaten chocolate.
How To Prevent Your Dog From Getting Airheads
Dogs are inquisitive creatures who will eat anything that piques their interest.
Dogs can detect airheads with their sensitive noses.
When you buy airheads, keep them hidden or store them high enough that the dog cannot reach them.
You should also inform everyone around you about the dangers of overfeeding your dog.
Can Puppies Eat Airheads?
No, puppies are unable to eat airheads.
The candy’s extreme chewiness and difficulty for them to digest are the cause of this, not its ingredients.
These candies have the potential to choke or dehydrate a puppy.
Conclusion
Can dogs eat airheads? Yes.
Below 10 grams of airhead candies are permissible, but anything more is bad for your dog’s health.
Compared to airhead bubble gum, airhead candies are safer. The latter contains xylitol, which is poisonous to dogs.
If at all possible, stay away from these products and choose a safer dog treat.