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Can Dogs Eat Sherbet?
Before we start talking about sherbet, a few misconceptions need to be cleared. The term "sherbet" is used interchangeably with ice cream. However, sherbets are not the same as ice creams.
Even though both are frozen desserts, ice cream is made using cream, milk, and sweetening ingredients. Sherbet, on the other hand, is made with fruit puree. It contains a little bit of milk and is not as sweet as ice cream.
Now, can dogs eat sherbet? While you can definitely share your sherbet with your dog, numerous studies recommend against it. Sherbet contains a lot of sugar which is bad for dogs.
Consuming sherbet every day can cause an increase in blood sugar levels, making it lethal for your dog. A dog who is fed an excessively sweet diet is bound to develop metabolic disease and diabetes in the long run.
So, are all sherbets bad for your dog? Or are there some sherbets that you can feed your dog? Let's look at some of the most popular sherbets you are likely to have at home and whether you can give them to your furry friend.
Pineapple Sherbet
Even though it is high in sugar, pineapple sherbet is not harmful to your dog if given in moderation. In fact, it could be a treat to consume on a hot summer day when there is no breeze outdoors.
This means that on a day when the temperature is high, and you choose to give a little bit of pineapple sherbet to your dog, it won't cause any harm.
However, you must remember not to make this a habit for your dog, regardless of how much it likes the pineapple sherbet. You may love sherbets and have them stocked in your fridge, but dogs are different from humans and cannot tolerate having sherbets on a regular basis.
You must also keep in mind that the human body processes sherbet differently than a dog's body would. Humans have a higher tolerance of sugar content, while dogs feel the texture of sugar more strongly, making it more likely to affect them.
Watermelon Sherbet
A popular dessert to have in the scorching heat, watermelon sherbet is juicy, refreshing, and, let's admit it, tastes pretty damn good. Watermelon naturally has a unique taste that makes it perfect for cocktails, mocktails, and ice creams.
Moreover, it has the least amount of concentrated sugar compared to other fruits. This means that watermelon sherbet is safe for dogs.
However, if you choose to give your dog watermelon sherbet, you must ensure that it is in its natural form. This means that no artificial sweeteners should be used to make the watermelon sherbet sweeter than it naturally is.
Studies show that dogs are extremely fond of watermelons. This means that if you really want to give your dog a sherbet, a watermelon sherbet would be a great option since it has a higher content of water. This will help keep your dog hydrated while ensuring that it enjoys its little treat.
Of course, you do not have to give your dog watermelon sherbet. You can also give it some cold watermelon to consume on a hot day. However, make sure the watermelon does not have seeds, as dogs can easily choke on these.
Mango Sherbet
Mangoes are the most loved fruits in loads of households. Not only are they loved by humans, but there are high chances that your dog also enjoys them. Since mango sherbets are a part of every mango-loving house, they are a hit among furry animals, especially when it is boiling outside.
Now, you might think that a mango sherbet a day will not harm your dog, but is that really true?
Mangos are naturally high in sugar. This is why those with diabetes are not recommended to include mangoes in their diet.
Hence, mango sherbets are not the greatest snacks for dogs either. We mentioned before that the human body could tolerate sugar better than dogs. If mango sherbets are not particularly good for humans, they are definitely not good for dogs.
You can choose to make a mango sherbet at home by keeping the sugar content low. Then, you can give it to your dog in very small quantities every once or twice a week.
So, Should You Give Your Dog Sherbet?
Even though watermelon sherbet is safe for dogs if there are no added sugars, we would recommend against giving dogs any kind of sherbet.
Just like humans, dogs can develop diabetes or obesity. Unlike humans, it does not take them long to fall ill because fruits have a high glycemic index that a dog's fragile stomach cannot handle.
The same is the case for ice creams. In fact, ice creams are heavier than sherbets because they contain higher quantities of milk and sugar. Moreover, ice creams can be more harmful to your dog, especially if it is lactose-intolerant.
The best way to enjoy a sherbet or ice cream is all by yourself, away from your dog. Regardless of the expectant eyes that your dog might show you, try not to give in if it catches you enjoying a treat all by yourself. This decision will only help your dog's wellbeing and health in the long run.
Alternatives to Sherbet
If you really want to give your dog a treat on a hot day, you can give them the following:
Blueberries
Blueberries contain loads of minerals and vitamins. You may know that they are great for humans but did you know that blueberries are great for dogs too?
All you have to do is ensure that the portion size is kept small and you do not give your dog blueberries too often.
Apples
Have you heard the famous saying, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away?" Well, apples are a great snack for dogs too! Not only are they affordable, but they are low in calories and have a high fiber content. Apples will also boost your dog's oral hygiene.
Of course, you cannot give your dog an entire apple to swallow. Instead, cut it up into small pieces and get rid of any seeds to ensure that your dog will not choke.
Peanut Butter
Peanut butter is not only a popular choice among humans. Dogs, too, enjoy snacking on peanut butter. It is a wonderful source of protein, and it contains healthy fats that are great for your dog.
However, you must ensure that the peanut butter you give to your dog does not contain any artificial sweeteners that will mess with its health in the long run.
