Can Dogs Eat Pop Rocks? Vet Reviewed Advice & FAQs

Our dogs constantly try to eat things they shouldn’t have in their daily diet. Human food appeals to them, with their impeccable sense of smell. Not even our Halloween candy is safe.

Regarding candy items like Pop Rocks, it’s best for your dog to steer clear. Although they aren’t toxic, Pop Rocks are full of sugar and artificial colors, and the sensation can also confuse your dog. So, even if you think it would be funny to get your dog’s reaction to this popping sweet, it’s a no-no.

What Are Pop Rocks?

You’re probably quite familiar with Pop Rocks, but what exactly makes these little lumps of sugar so reactive? Pop Rocks are made of simple ingredients: sugar, lactose, and flavoring. However, what makes it different is the embedding of pressurized carbon dioxide.

These pressurized carbon dioxide elements give it the fizzling effect. While this might be fun for kids, it’s not great for pups.

Pop Rocks Ingredients

Are Pop Rocks Healthy?

If you’re wondering if they are healthy—Pop Rocks are unhealthy for canines and humans. However, in small quantities, they won’t really do much damage. According to some sources, dogs can have candy in tiny portions, but you should really avoid it, if at all possible.

The fact of the matter is, sugar isn’t very good for your canines, but it is non-toxic. So, it can be okay if your dog ate a small bit of Pop Rocks, but it shouldn’t be a staple in your dog’s everyday diet. That goes for other table scraps and “people foods,” too.

Canines are omnivores that thrive on a diet of fruits, vegetables, grains, and animal protein. Anything outside of those basic food groups are.

What Are the Downfalls of Sugar for Dogs?

Sugar is bad all across the board. It has no health benefits for people or pets. In sweet treats, there is practically all sugar in most recipes—Pop Rocks being no exception. So, if you regularly let your dog sample your sweets, it can lead to bigger issues, such as:

Pop Rocks Might Scare Your Dog

Because Pop Rocks sizzle and crack, it may scare your dog to take a bite. However, braver dogs might gobble them up if they have the opportunity. If the Pop Rocks scare your dog, they probably won’t be interested in the future.

What to Expect When Your Dog Eats Pop Rocks

If your dog eats a few Pop Rocks, it’s unlikely to do much. However, every dog has a different level of sensitivity. Some can be very affected by the dyes or sugar in the candy. You might notice a few issues if your pup is a little sensitive.

If your dog has any discomfort, it should pass. However, if something isn’t right, don’t hesitate to contact your vet.

Beware of Plastic Wrappings

If your dog got into the Pop Rocks without permission, check to ensure they didn’t swallow any plastic. If you suspect they may have eaten the wrapping, get them to the vet right away. Eating indigestible items can lead to gastrointestinal issues, including life-threatening blockages.

At the vet, you can expect a quick examination, including X-rays or other testing. They can then determine if there’s cause for concern. If an issue is found, they will treat it as needed.

Conclusion

Even though a small amount of Pop Rocks won’t do much to your dog, it’s best to keep it away. If your dog snuck some without you realizing it, always check to see if they may have eaten the wrapping. Call your vet immediately if you suspect they may have eaten some. While Pop Rocks aren’t particularly toxic, they contain high sugar. You should keep candies away from pets to avoid stomach upset or weight gain.