Can Dogs Have Jello – Benefits & Side Effects

There are a lot of debates when it comes to foods that dogs can and cannot eat. One food that seems to be up for debate is jello.

Can dogs have jello? What benefits does this snack provide dogs? And what side effects could result from feeding this treat to a pup?

Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of giving your furry friend some and we share 3 jello alternatives that are not only safe for dogs but are also packed with nutrients and deliciously doggy-approved!

But first…

What Is Jello?

Jello is a gelatin-based dessert that is made by boiling gelatin powder, sugar, and water. It can be flavored and colored with various fruit juices or other ingredients.

Jello is high in sugar but low in calories and fat. It also does not contain any nutritional value. It is common to see Jello used as a diet food because it is low in calories but still provides a sweet taste.

Jello is also popular among athletes as a post-workout snack because it contains carbohydrates and helps to replenish glycogen stores.

So, Can Dogs Have Jello?

The answer is yes, dogs can have jello in moderation. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.

First, jello is high in sugar and not nutritionally dense, so it should only be given as an occasional treat. Second, avoid giving your dog jello that is flavored with chocolate, coffee, or any other ingredient that could be toxic to dogs.

And finally, make sure the jello you give your dog is sugar-free to avoid any potential health problems. If you are unsure whether or not jello is right for your dog, consult with a veterinarian.

4 Benefits of Jello for Dogs?

#1 – Protect dogs from brain damage and seizures

Jello contains an amino acid called glycine which has been shown to protect dogs from brain damage and seizures. It does this by reducing the level of glutamate in the brain.

Glutamate is an excitatory neurotransmitter that can be toxic at high levels. Glycine helps to reduce the toxicity of glutamate and is effective in treating seizures in dogs.

#2 – Helps with digestion

Jello also contains gelatin which can aid in digestion. It works by helping to break down the food in the stomach and intestines. This can be especially helpful for dogs that suffer from diarrhea or constipation.

Gelatin is also a source of fiber which can help to keep your dog regular.

#3 – Anti-inflammatory properties

The gelatin in jello has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce swelling and pain in dogs. It works by inhibiting the production of inflammatory cytokines.

This can be helpful for dogs that suffer from arthritis or other joint conditions.

#4 – Soothe upset stomach and diarrhea

Jello can help to soothe an upset stomach and diarrhea in dogs. This works by absorbing water in the gut and forming a protective barrier. Therefore, it can help to reduce the likelihood of dehydration.

It can also help to bind together loose stools and make them easier to pass.

3 Negative Side Effects of Jello for Dogs

While there are some benefits to giving your dog jello, there are also some potential side effects to be aware of. The most common 3 are:

Weight Gain and Diabetes

Jello is high in sugar which can lead to weight gain and diabetes in dogs. This is why it is important to only give jello to dogs in moderation and to avoid giving them sugary flavors. Too much sugar can lead to long-term health problems in dogs.

Dangers of Xylitol

Another ingredient to be aware of in jello is xylitol. Xylitol is a sugar alcohol that is often used as a sugar substitute. It is safe for humans but can be toxic to dogs.

Xylitol can cause low blood sugar, seizures, and liver failure in dogs. If you are unsure whether or not the jello you have contains xylitol, it is best to avoid feeding it to your dog altogether.

Risks of Pancreatitis

Jello also contains a lot of fat which can be hard for dogs to digest. This can lead to pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas.

Symptoms of pancreatitis in dogs include vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. If your dog has any of these symptoms, it is best to consult with a veterinarian right away.

3 Best Jello Alternatives

If you are looking for a safe and healthy alternative to jello for your dog, lucky for you there are a few options. Here are our favorites:

#1 – Natural Jello Treats (Gelatin Powder)

One option is to make your own jello treats at home using gelatin powder. Gelatin powder is a natural thickening agent that can be used to make homemade jello.

To make jello treats, simply mix the gelatin powder with water and your desired flavorings. Then, pour the mixture into molds and refrigerate until set.

This is a great option if you want to avoid artificial colors and flavors. Plus, you can control the sugar content by using natural sweeteners like honey or stevia.

#2 – Gelatin and Fresh Strawberries

Another option is to mix gelatin with fresh strawberries. This is a great alternative if your dog is diabetic or overweight as it contains no sugar.

To make this treat, simply blend fresh strawberries and add them to a pan with some gelatin. Heat the mixture until the gelatin has dissolved and then pour it into molds. Refrigerate until set and then store in the fridge for up to a week.

This treat is high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants which can be beneficial for your dog’s health.

#3 – Other Healthy Fruits (Bananas, Mango, Oranges…)

If you are looking for a jello alternative that is high in vitamins and minerals, you can try using other fruits like bananas, mangoes, or oranges.

Simply blend the fruit of your choice and add it to a pan with some gelatin. Heat the mixture until the gelatin has dissolved and then pour it into molds. Refrigerate until set and then store in the fridge for up to a week.

This is a great way to add extra nutrients and vitamins to your dog’s diet. Plus, it is a good option if your dog has food allergies or sensitivities as you can avoid using ingredients that they are allergic to.

Important to remember, don’t include berries as part of the mixture as some berries (like grapes) can be toxic to dogs.

Our Reader’s Popular Questions

What Happens if a Dog Eats Jello?

If a dog eats jello in moderation, there are no harmful side effects. However, if a dog eats too much jello, it may experience weight gain and diabetes. Additionally, jello contains xylitol which can be toxic to dogs.

Is Jello Safe for a Dog?

Yes, jello is safe for a dog as long as it is given in moderation and does not contain xylitol. You should also only give your dog jello that is sugar-free or made with natural sweeteners.

How Much Gelatin Can I Give My Dog?

The amount of gelatin you can give your dog will depend on their weight and size.

A good rule of thumb is to start with 1/4 teaspoon per day for small dogs and increase the amount gradually as needed. For large dogs, you can start with 1 teaspoon per day.

Can Dogs Eat Jello Pudding?

Yes, dogs can eat jello pudding as long as it does not contain xylitol. You should also make sure that the pudding is sugar-free or made with natural sweeteners. Also, make sure they only eat a small amount as jello pudding can be high in calories.

Does Sugar-Free Jello Have Xylitol?

Yes, sugar-free jello usually contains xylitol which is toxic to dogs. If you want to give your dog jello, make sure it does not contain xylitol. Xylitol is toxic, so it is important to make sure that the jello does not contain this ingredient.

Conclusion

Jello is safe for dogs as long as it does not contain xylitol. However, like with any sugar treat, it is important to give jello to dogs in moderation as it can cause weight gain and diabetes.

Additionally, you should only give your dog sugar-free or naturally sweetened jello. If you are looking for a healthy alternative to jello for your dog, you can try using other fruits like bananas, mangoes, or oranges.

Blend the fruit of your choice and add it to a pan with some gelatin. This will create a healthy treat that is high in vitamins and minerals.

Have you ever fed your dog jello? Let us know how your dog liked it.