Can Dogs Eat Liquorice
Can Dogs Eat Liquorice
Liquorice is a divisive treat—some people love it, others can’t stand the taste. But regardless of your personal preference, one thing is certain: liquorice is not safe for dogs. While it may not be toxic in tiny amounts, it poses several health risks and should never be given to dogs intentionally. If your dog happens to get hold of some, especially sweet or salted varieties, it’s important to act quickly and monitor them closely.
What Makes Liquorice Harmful for Dogs
The danger in liquorice comes from a compound called glycyrrhizin, which is found in the root of the liquorice plant. This compound can affect a dog’s blood pressure and electrolyte balance, potentially leading to serious health issues if consumed in significant amounts. Even small quantities can be harmful over time, especially in dogs with underlying health conditions such as heart problems or kidney disease.
Sweet liquorice also typically contains sugar, artificial sweeteners, and sometimes xylitol—a sugar substitute that is highly toxic to dogs and can cause rapid insulin release, leading to a dangerous drop in blood sugar. Some liquorice products are flavoured with anise or other ingredients that can also upset your dog’s stomach.
Is All Liquorice Dangerous for Dogs
Yes, both traditional black liquorice and red liquorice-style sweets (even those without real liquorice extract) can be harmful. While the risks vary depending on the ingredients, most liquorice products contain either sugar, glycyrrhizin, or sweeteners—all of which are bad for dogs. Even herbal liquorice tea or chews should be avoided unless they are specifically made for canine use.
What If My Dog Eats Liquorice
If your dog eats a piece of liquorice, try to find out exactly what type it was and how much they had. Read the ingredients, and check if it contains glycyrrhizin or xylitol. If it was a very small piece and didn’t contain toxic ingredients, your dog may be fine—but you should still watch for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, or changes in heart rate or behaviour.
If the liquorice contained xylitol, or your dog ate a large amount, contact your vet immediately. Xylitol poisoning can be life-threatening and requires urgent treatment. Even without xylitol, excess salt and sugar from liquorice can cause stomach upset and dehydration, particularly in small dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Liquorice Root or Herbal Supplements
Liquorice root is sometimes used in herbal supplements for dogs, but only under strict veterinary guidance. The raw extract has medicinal properties that may help with certain conditions, but it must be properly dosed and monitored to avoid adverse effects. You should never give your dog liquorice root or herbal teas containing liquorice unless prescribed by a professional.
Summary
Dogs should not eat liquorice in any form. Whether it’s the sweet shop variety or herbal extract, liquorice poses several health risks—from stomach upset to dangerous changes in blood pressure and blood sugar levels. If your dog eats liquorice, monitor them carefully and contact your vet for advice. To be safe, always store sweets out of reach and stick to dog-friendly treats that are made with their health in mind.