Wanting to spoil your dog is normal, but remember that animals can’t always tell what’s good for them. A mouth-watering treat may result in unpleasant surprises after! So, in what varieties can dogs eat whipped cream?
Key Takeaways
- Sweetened whipped cream is not good for dogs ❌
- Any whipped cream with xylitol is toxic to dogs ❌
- It’s usually ok to feed your dog lactose-free or plant-based whipped cream ✔️
- Starbucks Puppuccino should only be a once-in-a-while treat for dogs ✔️
Is Whipped Cream Safe for Dogs?
Can dogs eat whipped cream? The answer to this question is a little complicated. Like people, dogs may or may not be lactose intolerant. Dairy products can be difficult for them to digest and may cause an upset stomach, constipation, or diarrhea. For this reason, it may be best not to give them any dairy-based treats at all.
That said, a small amount of whipped cream now and then is unlikely to do much harm. Just be sure to monitor your pup and stop giving them whipped cream if they start having digestive problems.
Editor’s Note
One of my pups, Nala, is especially fond of whipped cream. I don’t give it to her on a regular basis, but when I’m making a dessert and a spoonful of whipped cream happens to fall on the floor… Well, let’s just say I believe a ghost licked it 😉
Another issue is sugar in commercially produced whipped creams. Dogs can’t have too much sugar, and store-bought brands can also contain harmful additives like xylitol (extremely toxic for dogs) and carrageenan (which may cause gastric irritation). Homemade whipped cream is safer in that regard.
What about Cool Whip?
The American brand Cool Whip is not real whipped cream, but an imitation of it. Instead of natural heavy cream, it’s full of processed oils and other not-so-healthy additives such as artificial flavor or high-fructose corn syrup. We don’t recommend it as a dog treat.
Lactose-Free Whipped Cream – Safe for Dogs Or Not?
Can dogs eat whipped cream that’s plant-based? If lactose is the main concern, you can give your dog a plant-based substitute. In theory, yes, lactose-free whipped cream is made with coconut milk or almond milk instead of dairy products, so can be a better choice for your dog.
However, it can still contain sugar or xylitol, so always check the label if you decide to buy it for your dog. Remember to count the calories, or you may notice your dog gaining weight!
Homemade Non-Dairy Whipped Cream for Dogs – Recipe
Here’s a recipe for lactose-free whipped cream you can safely give your dog in moderation. The only ingredient you need is 1 can of full-fat coconut milk.
Pour the contents of the can into a bowl. Mix them thoroughly with a whisk until you get a frothy cream. Put it in the fridge to chill overnight. Stir the coconut milk again and pour it into the canister of a whipped cream dispenser (if you have one). Add a whipped cream charger and shake the dispenser a little.
You can now spray coconut whipped cream onto anything you want! If you don’t have a special dispenser, you can use a whisk or mixer to whip the chilled coconut milk.
Is Starbucks Puppuccino Bad for Dogs?
You may have heard about Starbucks’ secret menu item known as Puppuccino. It’s just a portion of whipped cream in a small cup, happily handed out by the baristas when asked by dog owners.
A single Puppuccino contains about 12 grams of saturated fat and 120 calories. If your dog 'drinks’ it too often, they’re likely to gain weight. Even if your dog can eat lactose just fine, keep treats like that limited to steer clear of obesity.
What About Other Dairy Products?
What we’ve said about lactose so far applies to other dairy products, such as cream cheese and yogurt. While they’re unlikely to cause much harm in small quantities, they can upset your dog’s stomach if eaten too frequently. Besides, they’re empty calories.
What about store-bought dog treats that contain dairy? Again, it may be best to avoid them altogether, as even small amounts can cause trouble for some dogs. There are plenty of dairy-free options such as dried meat.
What’s a Good Alternative to Puppuccinos?
We’ve already established that both natural and sweetened whipped cream for dogs is a bad idea. If you want to give your pup a special treat, why not choose something with health benefits for dogs?
Pumpkin can be a great choice. It’s high in fiber and can help regulate your dog’s digestive system. You can use it to create a DIY pumpkin treat, or buy ready-made products instead. If you want to go with something sweet, try giving them some watermelon (minus the seeds).
Other safe snacks for dogs that you may have in your pantry include:
- carrots (raw or cooked),
- broccoli (raw or cooked)
- apple slices (without the core),
- blueberries,
- rice cakes.
Remember to keep an eye on your pup’s weight, and avoid giving them any human food that’s high in sugar, fat, or calories. With a diet of balanced dog food and nutritious treats, you’re giving your pet the best shot at a long and healthy life.
Conclusion: Avoid Whipped Cream as a Treat
So, can dogs eat whipped cream? To sum it up, a spoonful of carefully chosen whipped cream from time to time shouldn’t hurt your dog. However, dairy can cause all sorts of digestive problems in canines, so it’s best avoided altogether. If you want to give your pup a treat, pick something more suitable for their stomach and nutritional needs!
Can Dogs Eat Whipped Cream FAQs
That’s all we have to say on feeding dogs whipped cream. But if you have some more questions, feel free to peruse the FAQs below!
Is Reddi Whip OK for Dogs?
If you’re wondering whether or not Reddi Whip is OK for your pooch, the answer is a resounding no. It isn’t good for dogs because it can contain harmful additives like xylitol. Stick to healthier treats like fresh fruits and vegetables instead. Your dog will thank you for it!
How Much Whipped Cream Can a Dog Eat?
A spoonful of whipped cream every once in a while is no big deal, but make sure it doesn’t have any added sugar. You shouldn’t feed whipped cream to your dog on a regular basis.
Do Puppuccinos Cost Money?
No Puppuccinos cost money! They are free 🙂
Which Whipped Cream Is Safe for Dogs?
There are a few different types of whipped cream that are safe for dogs. Unsweetened, homemade whipped cream made with coconut milk is the healthiest option. It’s important to avoid whipped creams that contain artificial sweeteners or flavors, as these can be harmful to dogs.
