Can Dogs Eat Lemon Cookies?

Picture this; it’s evening, you’re winding down from a long day, and you want to enjoy a delicious treat with your furry friend.

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You plop down on the couch with a plate of warm cookies, reach for one, and then realize that you don’t know if dogs can eat lemon cookies.

So, can dogs eat lemon cookies?

Lemon cookies aren’t ideal for dogs, but they won’t necessarily cause your pet any harm if they eat one.

However, it contains psoralens and citric acid, which irritate your dog’s stomach.

The ingredients used to make lemon cookies, such as sugar, butter, and flour, aren’t also good for dogs.

In this article, we’ll discuss whether or not dogs can eat lemon cookies, the dangers of feeding your dog lemon cookies, and some healthier alternatives to lemon cookies that your dog will love just as much.

Can Dogs Eat Lemon Cookies?

Although lemon cookies aren’t the best snack for dogs, they won’t cause your furry friend any harm if eaten in moderation.

However, the ingredients used to make lemon cookies aren’t safe for dogs.

These include:

Sugar

Lemon cookies contain a lot of sugar, which isn’t good for dogs.

Dogs that consume too much sugar can develop obesity, diabetes, and other health problems.

Sugar destroys dental health leading to cavities.

It also promotes the growth of bacteria and yeast in the gut, which causes gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea and vomiting.

Butter

Butter is another ingredient in lemon cookies that are harmful to dogs.

Dogs that consume too much butter develop pancreatitis, a serious condition that requires immediate medical attention.

Flour

Flour is harmful to dogs because it causes gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, constipation, and diarrhea.

Gluten, a protein found in flour, cause gastrointestinal issues in some dogs.

Citric Acid

Lemon cookies also contain citric acid, which irritates the stomach.

Dogs that consume too much citric acid develop ulcers or other gastrointestinal issues.

Citric acid erodes the gastrointestinal tract, which leads to serious health problems.

Vanilla Extract

Vanilla extracts contain ethanol, which is toxic to dogs.

If your dog ate a lemon cookie that contained vanilla extract, it might experience vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal issues.

Dogs can’t metabolize ethanol, so it builds up in their system and cause intoxication.

Intoxicated dogs experience coordination problems, tremors, seizures, and even death.

Thus, use vanilla beans or vanilla bean paste as a safer alternative for dogs.

Lemon Zest

Lemon zest is the outer part of the lemon peel that contains citric acid.

Dogs that consume too much citric acid can develop ulcers or other gastrointestinal issues.

However, in smaller amounts, lemon zest is safe for dogs.

Oil

Dogs that consume too much oil can develop pancreatitis, a serious condition requiring immediate medical attention.

The digestive system can’t break down oil, so it builds up in the intestines and causes inflammation.

Healthier Alternatives to Lemon Cookies for Dogs

The Ultimate concern should be the health and safety of your dog.

Although lemon cookies aren’t the best snack for dogs, there are some healthier alternatives that your furry friend will love just as much.

Veggies and fruits

Dogs love crunchy fruits and vegetables such as apples, carrots, and green beans.

To prepare these veggies and fruits, simply wash them and cut them into bite-sized pieces.

Meat

Dogs also love meat, so give them cooked chicken, turkey, or beef.

Meat provides proteins and essential nutrients necessary for a dog’s diet.

Besides, the digestive system of dogs can break down meat easily.

Cheese

Another healthy alternative for dogs is cheese.

Cheese is an excellent source of protein and calcium.

It’s also easy for dogs to digest.

However, give your dog low-fat cheese to prevent weight gain.

Cookies Made with Dog-Friendly Ingredients

There are also many brands of cookies that use dog-friendly ingredients such as whole wheat flour, peanut butter, and oats.

These cookies are safe for dogs to eat and are just as delicious:

Pupsicles

Prepare healthy and delicious pupsicles for your dog using yogurt, fruits, and vegetables.

Simply blend the ingredients and pour them into popsicle molds.

Freeze the pupsicles for a few hours, and then give them to your dog as a refreshing treat on a hot day.

Dog Biscuits

Biscuits for dogs are also a great alternative to lemon cookies.

Dog biscuits are made with dog-friendly ingredients and are safe for dogs to eat.

You can find them in most pet stores or online.

Can my Dog Benefit from Eating Lemon Cookies

As a pet parent, you might be wondering if there’s any benefit to feeding your dog lemon cookies; below are a few benefits that your dog might experience:

Vitamin C

Lemon cookies contain vitamin C, which is an essential nutrient for dogs.

Vitamin C helps boost the immune system, keeping your dog healthy and free from disease.

Fiber

Lemon cookies also contain fiber, which is beneficial for dogs.

Fiber helps with digestion and can also help prevent constipation.

Thus, feeding your dog lemon cookies keeps them full and satisfied.

Energy

Dogs require energy to stay active and healthy.

The sugar in lemon cookies provides your dog with the energy to play and exercise.

Can Dogs Eat Lemon Cookies FAQs

Can I feed pregnant dogs lemon cookies?

Pregnant dogs can eat lemon cookies in moderation.

However, it’s important to speak with your veterinarian first to ensure that the lemon cookies won’t harm the puppies.

My dog ate a lemon cookie; will he be okay?

Dogs that consume small amounts of lemon cookies are usually fine.
However, if your dog ate a lot of cookies or if he is showing signs of illness, it’s important to contact your veterinarian right away.

Conclusion

Every pet parent wants to give their dog the best, but sometimes we don’t know what’s best.

When feeding your dog lemon cookies, it’s important to use caution.

Dogs that consume too much lemon can experience vomiting, seizures, and even death.

However, in small amounts, lemon cookies are safe for dogs and can provide some benefits such as vitamin C and energy.

If you have any concerns, it’s always best to speak with your veterinarian before feeding your dog lemon cookies.

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Megan Turner

Hi, my name is Megan Turner and I have worked in a dog’s shelter for four years now. It is truly my dream job, and I see hundreds of dogs every month being united with new owners to give them a loving forever home.

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