Can Dogs Eat Licorice? The Risk Every Owner Should Know

Have you ever been munching on a piece of licorice, only to feel those big puppy eyes staring up at you, silently asking, "Can I have some too?" I know I have. My Labrador, Max, has a sixth sense for snacks—and it’s hard to say no when he looks that cute. But before I ever toss him a treat from my stash, I always do a quick gut check. So, the question popped into my head: Can dogs eat licorice? Or more importantly, should they?

Let’s dig into it together.

A Sweet Treat with a Hidden Risk

First off, I get it. Licorice might not be everyone's favorite candy, but if you’re like me, there’s something nostalgic about it. I used to love black licorice as a kid, and occasionally, I still grab a bag. But one day, Max managed to swipe a piece off the counter (he’s sneaky like that), and I panicked. Is licorice bad for dogs? Could it hurt him?

Turns out, I had every reason to be concerned.

Can Dogs Eat Licorice?

Here’s the short answer: No, dogs should not eat licorice.

It might look harmless, but licorice—especially black licorice—can pose real dangers to our furry friends. Even small amounts can have negative effects. And while it might not be immediately toxic in tiny bites, it certainly isn't safe either.

The Real Danger Lurking in Licorice

What makes licorice so risky for dogs? The main culprit is a compound called glycyrrhizin. It comes from the licorice root and is what gives black licorice its unique flavor. In humans, too much glycyrrhizin can lead to high blood pressure and potassium imbalances. But in dogs, the impact can be much worse.

Why Glycyrrhizin Is Bad for Dogs

Glycyrrhizin can:

• Raise blood pressure

• Lead to muscle weakness

• Cause lethargy or even seizures

• Affect kidney and liver function

In severe cases, black licorice can kill dogs, especially if eaten in large quantities or over a long period of time. Scary, right?

Can Dogs Have Licorice in Small Amounts?

You might be wondering, "Okay, but what if it’s just a tiny piece?" I used to ask the same thing.

Honestly? It’s just not worth the risk. Dogs process things differently than we do, and even a small amount of glycyrrhizin can be enough to trigger health issues—especially in smaller breeds or older dogs.

Red Licorice: Any Safer?

What about red licorice? It doesn’t even contain real licorice root, right?

You’re right—most red licorice is flavored with strawberry, cherry, or other fruit essences and doesn’t contain glycyrrhizin. But that doesn’t make it a safe dog treat. Here’s why:

• It’s packed with sugar, which dogs don’t need.

• It may contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is highly toxic to dogs.

• The dyes and artificial flavors can upset your dog’s stomach or cause allergic reactions.

So while it might be less dangerous than black licorice, it still falls into the "keep out of reach" category in my house.

Can Black Licorice Kill Dogs?

Unfortunately, yes.

If your dog eats a significant amount of black licorice, especially over a period of time, it can lead to serious and sometimes fatal complications. I read a heartbreaking story once about a beagle who got into a bag of black licorice and ended up in the emergency vet with seizures. The owner had no idea it was dangerous.

The truth is, dogs are curious creatures. They'll eat just about anything we drop on the floor—and that includes candy. It’s our job to keep them safe.

Signs of Licorice Poisoning in Dogs

If your dog has eaten licorice, watch for these symptoms:

• Vomiting or diarrhea

• Increased thirst or urination

• Lethargy

• Muscle tremors or seizures

• Irregular heartbeat

• High blood pressure

If you notice any of these signs, call your vet immediately. Quick action can save your dog's life.

What to Do If Your Dog Eats Licorice

Here’s what I did when Max got into that piece:

1. Checked the ingredients on the package (thankfully, it didn’t contain glycyrrhizin).

2. Called the vet just to be safe.

3. Monitored him for the rest of the day for any unusual behavior.

Luckily, he was okay. But the incident was a wake-up call. Now I keep all candy sealed and stored way out of reach.

Healthy Alternatives for Treat-Loving Pups

If you’re looking for sweet treats to share with your dog, there are much safer options. Here are some of Max’s favorites:

• Carrot sticks: Naturally sweet, crunchy, and low-calorie.

• Apple slices (no seeds!): A fruity snack most dogs adore.

• Blueberries: Full of antioxidants and super yummy.

• Peanut butter (xylitol-free): A spoonful makes him do a happy dance.

I always keep a stash of dog-safe snacks handy for those "puppy eyes" moments.

Is Licorice Good for Dogs in Any Way?

You might be surprised to hear that licorice root in its natural form is sometimes used in veterinary herbal medicine. But—and this is a big BUT—it’s only given under professional guidance.

Some holistic vets might use it to help with inflammation or allergies, but the dosage is very controlled, and it’s often combined with other herbs to balance its effects. So while licorice can have some health benefits, it’s not something you should try at home without a vet’s okay.

Final Thoughts: Better Safe Than Sorry

So, can dogs eat licorice? The answer is a solid no.

Whether it’s black, red, twisted, or sweetened, licorice just isn’t worth the risk. And trust me, I get it—we all want to share the things we love with our pets. But when it comes to candy, especially licorice, it’s best to keep it to yourself.

After that scary experience with Max, I became a lot more careful about what I leave lying around. It’s one of those "better safe than sorry" lessons I won’t soon forget.

Quick Recap: What You Need to Know

• Can dogs eat licorice? No.

• Can dogs have licorice? Still no.

• Is licorice bad for dogs? Absolutely.

• Is licorice good for dogs? Only under vet supervision.

• Can dogs eat black licorice? Definitely not.

• Can black licorice kill dogs? Sadly, yes.

• Can dogs have black licorice? Please, don’t risk it.

Keep your pups safe and snack smart. Their health is always worth more than a moment of sharing your sweets. Have you ever had a close call with a curious dog and a dangerous snack? I’d love to hear your story—we can all learn from each other!