are Gushers Bad For Dogs? Risks, Facts, Rumors, and Secrets

As a dog owner, you want to keep your furry friend happy and healthy. This means providing nutritious food and avoiding anything that could be harmful. You may have wondered if it’s okay to share some of your favorite candy, like Gushers, with your dog. In this article, we will explore whether Gushers and similar fruit snacks are bad for dogs. With approximately 100 calories per pack, these snacks are high in sugar. The sweeteners and lack of fiber mean they offer little nutritional value. More importantly, some ingredients like xylitol can be highly toxic to dogs. We will outline the potential risks, so you can make informed decisions about treats for your pup. While an occasional lick of sugar probably won’t hurt, regularly feeding fruit snacks is inadvisable. We want what’s best for our dogs, so let’s dig into the details.

What Are Gushers?

Gushers are fruit-flavored snacks targeted at children and teens. They are manufactured by General Mills and were first introduced in the 1990s. Gushers are small, oblong snacks with a liquid fruit filling encapsulated in a chewy outer shell.

Ingredients and Flavors

The main ingredients in Gushers are sugar, corn syrup, and fruit juice from concentrate. Artificial dyes and flavors are also commonly used. Popular flavors include strawberry, berry, tropical, and sour. Each packet or pouch contains several individually wrapped Gushers in assorted flavors and colors.

Nutrition

Gushers are not nutritionally dense snacks. A single 1.8 ounce pouch contains 21 grams of sugar, equivalent to about 5 teaspoons. They are high in carbohydrates but low in protein, fat, and nutrients. Due to the high sugar content and use of artificial additives, Gushers should only be consumed occasionally and in moderation. Parents are advised to limit their child’s consumption to one pouch per day at maximum.

Concerns

Some concerns have been raised over the safety of artificial dyes used in Gushers, especially for children. Certain dyes like Red 40 and Blue 1 have been linked to behavioral issues and hyperactivity in children. The high sugar content can also contribute to health issues like obesity, diabetes, and tooth decay when consumed in excess.

While Gushers can be part of a balanced diet for children in moderation, they lack nutritional value and parents should exercise caution. It is best to choose fresh whole foods and limit processed junk food and sugary snacks when possible. Always supervise your child to ensure Gushers are eaten properly and not shared with pets.

Ingredients in Gushers Sour Candy

High Fructose Corn Syrup

Gushers sour candies contain high fructose corn syrup, which is a liquid sweetener used as a substitute for sugar. High fructose corn syrup is made from corn starch and contains fructose and glucose. While fructose and glucose are natural sugars found in fruits and vegetables, the high amounts of refined fructose in high fructose corn syrup may have negative health effects when consumed in excess. High fructose corn syrup is associated with weight gain, insulin resistance, increased belly fat, and inflammation.

Artificial Colors

Gushers sour candies also contain artificial colors like Red 40, Blue 1, and Yellow 5. Artificial colors are synthetic dyes used to color foods and make them more appealing. However, artificial colors may be harmful in large amounts. Studies show that large doses of these dyes may cause allergic reactions, hyperactivity in children, and even cancer. Due to these potential health risks, many consumers prefer to avoid artificial colors.

Citric Acid

Citric acid is added to Gushers sour candies to give them a tart, sour taste. The Citric acid is a natural preservative and pH control agent derived from citrus fruits like lemons and limes. In small amounts, citric acid is harmless and found naturally in citrus fruits. However, the high amounts of citric acid used in sour candies may irritate the mouth, stomach, and digestive tract, especially in children or people with sensitivities. Stomach upset, nausea, and diarrhea are possible side effects of too much citric acid.

Additional Ingredients

Other ingredients in Gushers sour candies include corn syrup, sugar, modified corn starch, gelatin, adipic acid, natural and artificial flavors, and artificial colors like Red 40 and Blue 1. These extra ingredients are used as fillers, thickeners, flavorings, and colorings to produce the sour gummy fruit snacks. However, they provide little nutritional value and may have negative health impacts, especially when consumed in excess.

In summary, while Gushers sour candies are meant as an occasional treat, their long list of artificial ingredients and excess sugar make them poor nutritious choices. Consuming too many of these fruit snacks could lead to weight gain, hyperactivity, digestive issues, and other health problems. For the best health, enjoy Gushers in moderation or choose more nutritious snack options when possible.

Why Gushers Can Be Harmful for Dogs

High Sugar Content

Gushers fruit snacks are high in sugar, with around 13 grams per serving, most of which comes from corn syrup and sugar. The high sugar content can be harmful to dogs for several reasons. Ingesting too much sugar can lead to obesity, dental problems, and diabetes in dogs. The sugar rush from Gushers may also cause an upset stomach in some dogs. It is best to avoid giving Gushers and other sugary human foods to dogs whenever possible.

Choking Hazard

The fruit snack filling and tough outer shell of Gushers can present a choking risk for some dogs, especially smaller breeds. The colorful liquid center is difficult for dogs to chew, and the plastic-like casing may be hard for some dogs to break down. This could lead to the dog choking on pieces of the fruit snack. It is not worth the risk of endangering your dog’s health by giving them a sugary human treat like Gushers.

Lack of Nutrients

While Gushers are advertised as containing fruit juice and natural flavors, they lack nutrients that dogs require to stay healthy. They are mostly made up of sugar, corn syrup, and artificial colors – none of which provide any nutritional benefits for dogs. Dogs need a balanced diet of protein, fat, vitamins, and minerals to thrive. Gushers do not contain these essential nutrients, so they should not be a part of a dog’s regular diet or treats.

In summary, Gushers and other sugary, artificial human snacks should be avoided for dogs. They pose risks to a dog’s health, including obesity, diabetes, dental disease, nutritional deficiencies, and choking. It is best to feed dogs a healthy, balanced diet and nutritious dog treats made especially for them. Giving dogs table scraps and sugary snacks may seem like an act of love, but it could end up shortening their lifespan and reducing their quality of life.

Xylitol Toxicity in Dogs

Xylitol is an artificial sweetener found in many sugar-free gum, candies, and baked goods. While xylitol is safe for humans in normal amounts, it can be extremely toxic to dogs. Even small amounts of xylitol can cause life-threatening hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and liver damage in dogs.

Hypoglycemia

When dogs ingest xylitol, their bodies mistake it for real sugar and produce insulin in response. This can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar levels. Symptoms of xylitol-induced hypoglycemia in dogs include lethargy, weakness, collapse, and seizures. Seek immediate veterinary care if your dog shows any of these symptoms after eating xylitol. Intravenous glucose therapy and other treatments may be required to stabilize your dog’s blood sugar.

Liver Damage

Xylitol is metabolized differently in dogs than humans and can have devastating effects on their liver. Even small amounts of xylitol can cause liver inflammation, cell death, and fibrosis. Some dogs may develop acute liver failure, characterized by jaundice, diarrhea, vomiting, and bleeding disorders. Permanent liver damage and even death can occur without prompt veterinary treatment.

Diagnosis and Treatment

If you witness your dog eating xylitol or suspect they have ingested it, take them to a vet immediately. Diagnosing xylitol toxicity requires blood tests to check for hypoglycemia and liver enzyme elevations. Hospitalization for IV fluids, glucose supplementation, liver protectants, and other supportive care is typically required. In severe cases, dogs may need plasma transfusions or other intensive treatments to survive. Complete recovery can take several weeks.

The dangers of xylitol for dogs cannot be overstated. Accidental exposure to xylitol-containing products poses a real risk for many pet owners. The best way to prevent toxicity is to avoid giving human foods to your dog and properly store potentially harmful substances. With prompt diagnosis and treatment, many dogs can survive xylitol poisoning but prevention is always the best strategy.

Other Ingredients of Concern in Gushers

In addition to high amounts of sugar, Gushers fruit snacks contain several other ingredients that may be harmful to dogs.

Artificial Colors

Gushers contain artificial food dyes like Red 40, Blue 1, and Yellow 5 to give them their bright colors. Studies show that artificial dyes may be carcinogenic and can cause behavioral issues in children and potentially dogs. While the dyes are approved for human use, dogs metabolize foods differently and these dyes may have adverse effects.

High Fructose Corn Syrup

Gushers are sweetened with high fructose corn syrup, which has been linked to weight gain, insulin resistance, and other health issues in humans. As dogs have a lower tolerance for fructose, high fructose corn syrup could be detrimental to their health, especially if consumed in large amounts.

Palm Oil

Palm oil is used in Gushers to provide texture and prevent sticking. However, palm oil may raise cholesterol levels and cause inflammation in dogs. It can also be difficult for some dogs to digest, potentially causing gastrointestinal upset.

Preservatives

Preservatives like citric acid, sodium citrate, and malic acid are added to Gushers to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage. While these preservatives are generally recognized as safe in limited amounts for humans, dogs have a lower tolerance and the high amounts found in Gushers could be harmful. These preservatives may cause irritation of the gastrointestinal tract, skin, and other tissues in dogs.

In summary, Gushers contain several ingredients including artificial dyes, high fructose corn syrup, palm oil, and preservatives that may have adverse effects in dogs, especially if consumed in large amounts. It is best to avoid giving Gushers and other similar fruit snacks to dogs whenever possible due to these potential health risks. If consumed, monitor your dog closely and consult a vet immediately if you notice any negative symptoms.

Signs Your Dog Ate Gushers

If you have reason to suspect your dog has eaten Gushers, a fruit-flavored candy, it’s important to monitor them closely for signs of illness or distress. Consuming too much sugar, artificial colors, and preservatives can be harmful to dogs. Be on alert for the following symptoms that may indicate your dog ate Gushers:

Diarrhea and Vomiting: Gushers contain high amounts of sugar, high fructose corn syrup, and artificial colors that can upset your dog’s stomach. You may notice diarrhea, vomiting, or both within a few hours of eating the candy. The vomiting may contain colorful residue from the Gushers. These symptoms require veterinary care to avoid dehydration and restore electrolyte balance.

Hyperactivity or Lethargy: The sugar in Gushers may temporarily boost your dog’s energy, causing hyperactivity, restlessness or panting. Conversely, the sugar crash later on can lead to lethargy, weakness or depression. Observe your dog for changes in behavior or energy levels.

Gastrointestinal Obstruction: If a large amount of Gushers were eaten, the fruit-flavored beads or packaging could potentially cause an intestinal blockage. Symptoms may include loss of appetite, abdominal pain, or inability to pass stools. This is a medical emergency requiring immediate veterinary care.

Treat any suspected ingestion of Gushers seriously. While one or two Gushers may only cause mild stomach upset in some dogs, the artificial ingredients and sugar can be toxic in large amounts. Be safe – if your dog shows any symptoms or you are unsure of how many Gushers were eaten, call your vet or animal poison control immediately. They can advise you on whether inducing vomiting or other treatment may be necessary based on the amount of candy ingested.

Close monitoring, quick action and veterinary care are key to keeping dogs healthy and avoiding complications from eating human foods like Gushers that are not meant for canine consumption. Be vigilant, know the signs of a problem, and get help right away. Your dog’s health and safety should be the top priority.

What to Do if Your Dog Eats Gushers

If your dog ingests Gushers fruit snacks, it is important to take action immediately. Gushers contain high amounts of sugar, dyes, and other chemicals that can be harmful or toxic to dogs. Contact your vet or an animal poison control center right away for guidance. They may advise inducing vomiting or administering activated charcoal to help absorb and pass the toxins.

You should closely monitor your dog for symptoms in the hours following consumption. Watch for increased heart rate, hyperactivity or lethargy, vomiting or diarrhea, tremors, or seizures. These can indicate poisoning or a dangerous drop in blood sugar. Your vet may want to examine your dog to check vital signs and blood glucose levels. They may administer intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration and stabilize blood sugar.

In some cases, a dog may pass Gushers uneventfully in stools after a few hours. However, the dyes and other additives can still irritate the digestive tract. Provide plenty of water to keep your dog hydrated. Offer bland, easy-to-digest foods like rice, oatmeal, pumpkin or sweet potatoes for the next couple of days until stools return to normal.

Take measures to prevent your dog from accessing Gushers or other sugary human snacks in the future. Keep people food secured in cabinets or cupboards and train your dog to stay out of the kitchen when you’re not home. Offer interactive dog toys with peanut butter or treats inside to keep them occupied.

While scary, many dogs recover fully after consuming Gushers or similar products. However, any ingestion of human snacks can be dangerous to a dog’s health, so always contact your vet right away for guidance and to be safe. They can walk you through first aid steps, determine if emergency care is needed, and advise you on preventing this from happening again. Your dog’s health and safety should be the top priority.

Preventing Your Dog From Eating Gushers

As a dog owner, it is important to take precautions to ensure your canine companion does not consume Gushers fruit snacks or other harmful human foods. To safeguard your dog’s health and well-being, you must make Gushers and similar products inaccessible and train your dog to avoid them.

Keeping Gushers out of your dog’s reach is the most effective way to prevent consumption. Store Gushers, as well as all human foods and snacks, in cabinets or pantries secured with child safety locks or latches. Place trash in lidded cans that your dog cannot access or tip over. Properly seal or tie up trash bags before disposal.

Be vigilant in supervising your dog, especially when eating or preparing food. Never leave leftovers, dirty dishes, or an unattended snack where your dog could grab them. Carefully monitor your dog on walks or in the yard to ensure they do not eat discarded wrappers or dropped snacks.

Through consistent training, teach your dog the “leave it” and “drop it” commands to discourage eating Gushers or other objects. Reward your dog when they obey these commands to positively reinforce the behavior you want to see. If your dog does get hold of Gushers or the wrapper, trade them an approved treat or toy for the forbidden item instead of chasing or wrestling it away. This technique, known as “trading up,” helps your dog learn to relinquish inappropriate items on command.

By keeping a close watch on your dog, securing potential hazards, and patiently training them, you can rest assured your faithful companion will steer clear of Gushers and stay happy and healthy for years to come. Be proactive and take all necessary precautions—an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure, especially when it comes to your dog’s wellbeing.

Gusher FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Dogs and Gushers

As a dog owner, you may have questions about whether human foods like Gushers fruit snacks are safe for your canine companion. Here are some common queries and answers regarding dogs and Gushers:

Are Gushers toxic to dogs?

In general, Gushers should be avoided for dogs. The artificial colors, flavors, and high sugar content can be harmful if eaten in large amounts. While a few Gushers are unlikely to cause lasting harm, it is not worth the risk. It is best to keep Gushers and all human foods out of your dog’s reach to prevent them from eating too many.

What happens if a dog eats Gushers?

If your dog eats a few Gushers, they may experience gastrointestinal upset like vomiting, diarrhea, or decreased appetite. Eating a large amount of Gushers can lead to more severe symptoms requiring veterinary care, such as tremors, elevated heart rate, or even liver damage in extreme cases. Seek vet advice immediately if your dog shows negative side effects after eating Gushers.

Are the ingredients in Gushers toxic to dogs?

Some ingredients in Gushers like artificial colors (Red 40, Blue 1, Yellow 5, Yellow 6) and the artificial sweetener maltitol can be harmful to dogs, especially in large amounts. While the ingredients are regulated as safe for humans, dogs metabolize these additives differently. It is best to avoid giving Gushers or any treats with these ingredients to your dog.

Will Gushers expand in a dog’s stomach?

No, Gushers will not expand dangerously in a dog’s stomach. Gushers get their name from the liquid-filled centers that can burst in a human mouth. However, a dog’s stronger stomach acid and digestion would break down the Gushers before their centers could burst. Still, the other ingredients in Gushers may cause gastrointestinal upset for dogs, so they should be kept out of reach.

While a few Gushers are unlikely to seriously harm a dog, these fruit snacks are not good for canines and should be avoided. For your dog’s health and safety, do not feed them any human treats unless approved by your vet. Always keep people food secured and out of your dog’s access. If your dog does eat Gushers, call your vet right away for advice. It is best to err on the side of caution to prevent negative side effects.

Conclusion

Fruit snacks like Gushers may seem like a harmless treat to share with your dog, but they can actually pose some health risks. The high sugar content and lack of real nutritional value make them a poor choice for canine consumption. While an occasional Gusher likely won’t cause lasting harm, they should not become a regular part of your dog’s diet. When in doubt, stick to more natural, wholesome treats that provide real nutrients. Your furry friend’s health and wellbeing should always come first. With a little care and common sense, you can avoid potential problems and keep your dog happy.