I caught my dog sneaking some Skittles from the candy bowl. Should I be worried? Are they safe for dogs to eat or should I keep an eye on him for any weird reactions? Thanks!

Hi there! It’s always concerning when our furry friends get into things they're not supposed to. I totally understand your worry about your dog sneaking a few Skittles. Here’s the lowdown: Skittles themselves aren’t toxic to dogs, which is good news. However, they are high in sugar, which isn’t ideal for canine digestion and can sometimes cause a mild upset stomach, like diarrhea or vomiting.

Here’s what you should watch for:

• Upset stomach: Mild vomiting or diarrhea. If it happens just once or twice and your pup is otherwise behaving normally, it’s not usually a cause for concern.
• Hyperactivity: Due to the sugar, your dog might have a bit more energy than usual.

If you notice:

• Continuous vomiting or diarrhea
• Signs of pain or discomfort (whining, not wanting to move)
• Any strange behaviors, like lethargy or unresponsiveness

Then it's worth contacting your vet for more advice. However, a one-time snack of a few Skittles generally isn’t considered an emergency.

For now, ensure your pup has access to plenty of water to stay hydrated, and keep an eye on them for the next day or two. If they start showing those concerning symptoms or if you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out to a vet.

If you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.