Can Dogs Eat Fortune Cookies? The Pros and Cons

If you're celebrating the Chinese New Year or just enjoying some Chinese takeout, you may be wondering if you can give your dog a taste of those crispy fortune cookies. While dogs can eat fortune cookies, they should only be given to your pet in moderation and not as a regular part of their diet. Fortune cookies are not toxic to dogs, but they are high in sugar and fat, which means they can contribute to weight gain, digestive issues, and even pancreatitis if they are eaten in large amounts.

Although fortune cookies aren't necessarily bad for dogs when they are eaten in small amounts, we'll take a closer look at their ingredients and nutritional content to determine if they are a good occasional treat option. By reviewing what the experts have to say and looking at what dogs need in their diets, you'll be able to determine if fortune cookies can help support your dog's health and well-being.

Ingredient Breakdown: What's in a Fortune Cookie?

While fortune cookies may be a fun and lighthearted snack, the ingredients used to make them could be potentially harmful to our dogs. The main ingredients are flour, sugar, vanilla extract, and oils like sesame seed oil, but many manufacturers also include artificial colors, stabilizers, and other additives.

The most worrisome of these ingredients is the high sugar content. As noted by Pet Friendly House, a single fortune cookie has about 7 grams of sugar, which can lead to weight gain, dental problems, and even diabetes in dogs if consumed regularly. In addition, the flour used is often made from wheat, which can be problematic for dogs with wheat allergies or gluten sensitivities.

While not toxic, ingredients like vanilla extract contain alcohol, which can be dangerous in large amounts. Artificial colors have also been shown to cause hyperactivity and allergic reactions in some dogs. And the high fat content from oils and butters can lead to pancreatitis and obesity.

In general, fortune cookies are high in carbs, sugar, and fat, which can lead to digestive upset, weight gain, and other issues in dogs. As a result, it's important to check the ingredient list and make sure you know about any allergens or other issues before feeding your dog human food.

Potential Health Risks and Symptoms

There are several potential health risks associated with dogs eating fortune cookies. According to MyPetChild.com, the high sugar and fat content of fortune cookies can cause digestive upset, pancreatitis, and obesity in dogs. Symptoms of overeating may include vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy.

It's important to watch dogs closely for any changes in behavior and health when introducing new foods, especially if they have any preexisting health issues or food sensitivities. In one case reported by JustAnswer, a dog that ate a large number of fortune cookies showed a loss of appetite, weakness, and pain when touched, which are signs that the dog may need to be seen by a veterinarian.

If a dog eats a large number of fortune cookies or eats the paper fortune, it's important to contact a vet immediately. The paper fortunes can cause choking or intestinal blockages, which can be life-threatening if not treated right away.

The Paper Fortune: A Choking Hazard?

Although the paper fortune that comes inside a fortune cookie may not be the first thing you think of when it comes to potential hazards, it can actually be a choking hazard for dogs. PetDogPlanet.com notes that the small paper that contains the fortune could get stuck in a dog's throat or cause an intestinal blockage.

To avoid this danger, it's important to make sure you remove the paper fortune before giving a fortune cookie to your dog. MyPetChild.com also recommends that you supervise your dog while they eat the cookie and take the paper fortune away if it comes loose.

If a dog does swallow the paper fortune, look for signs of distress such as gagging, difficulty breathing, or vomiting. JustAnswer explains that if this happens, you should take your dog to the vet immediately because the paper could cause an obstruction.

Because of the potential choking and blockage hazards, it's always best to be cautious when giving your dog any new human foods, especially those that contain small parts that could be swallowed. Always supervise your dog and make sure to remove any potential hazards to ensure that your dog stays safe when they enjoy the occasional fortune cookie.

Everything in Moderation: Using Fortune Cookies as an Occasional Treat

Because of the high sugar and fat content, fortune cookies should be used as an occasional treat for dogs. Dogster explains that it's fine to give your dog a fortune cookie every now and then, but you should not make it a regular thing.

Pet Friendly House suggests that you limit your dog to one or two fortune cookies at a time because the sugar content can cause an upset stomach, vomiting, and other digestive issues if it is consumed in large amounts. The Dog Bakery also explains that while one cookie is generally not a big deal, eating a large quantity of any human cookie can lead to gastrointestinal problems.

Instead of giving fortune cookies on a regular basis, offer healthier, more nutritious treats to your dog, such as fresh fruits and vegetables or dog biscuits that are made specifically for dogs. Dogster also says that you should talk to your vet about how many treats you should give your dog and how often you should give them treats based on their specific needs and dietary restrictions.

Conclusion: Putting Your Dog's Health and Well-being First

The decision to give your dog a fortune cookie is not one that should be taken lightly. While fortune cookies may not be toxic, the potential dangers they pose to a dog's health and well-being are not worth the brief enjoyment they may get from eating one.

By prioritizing your dog's overall health and well-being and working with your vet to get the best advice for your dog's specific needs, you can make sure that your dog has a healthy, balanced diet and a long, happy life.