Can dogs eat liquorice?
Quick answer: Not recommended — liquorice is best avoided for dogs.
Quick verdict
Caution
Key risk
Real liquorice contains glycyrrhizin, which in larger amounts can raise blood pressure and lower potassium; the sweets add sugar and some sugar-free versions contain toxic xylitol.
Why
Liquorice is best avoided for dogs and should not be given as a treat.
Can dogs eat liquorice, and why?
Liquorice is best avoided for dogs and should not be given as a treat. Real liquorice contains glycyrrhizin, which in larger amounts can raise blood pressure and lower potassium; the sweets add sugar and some sugar-free versions contain toxic xylitol.
Dogs are omnivores, so most of their diet should be a complete, balanced dog food, with treats on top. They cope with a wide range of foods, but rich, fatty or sugary ones can cause stomach upset and, over time, weight gain or pancreatitis.
Warning — what to watch for
Real liquorice contains glycyrrhizin, which in larger amounts can raise blood pressure and lower potassium; the sweets add sugar and some sugar-free versions contain toxic xylitol.
If your dog has eaten liquorice, don’t wait for symptoms — contact your vet immediately, or call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, UK). Signs of a problem can include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, lethargy, tremors or loss of appetite.
🚨 Find an emergency vet near youMore foods dogs might eat
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding dogs well:
Portable Pet Travel Water Bottle & Food Bowl
A fun kettlebell-shaped travel bottle that keeps your dog or cat hydrated on walks. The base unscrews into a feeding bowl for food or water on the go, with a wrist strap for easy carrying. Approx 18.5cm tall.
Dried Meat Slice Pet Treats
Thinly sliced, slow-dried meat treats with no added flavourings or preservatives.
Tarhong Moroccan Melamine Pet Food Scoop — Single or Double
Sturdy melamine food scoops in a Moroccan-inspired design — BPA free, dishwasher safe, and available in two sizes.
Long-Range Remote Dog Training Collar
A long-range training collar set with a backlit handset and a reflective receiver collar. Choose between tone, vibration and static correction to recall and train your dog over open distances. USB rechargeable.
Feeding & nutrition guides
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat liquorice?
Caution. Liquorice is best avoided for dogs and should not be given as a treat.
What happens if my dog eats liquorice?
Real liquorice contains glycyrrhizin, which in larger amounts can raise blood pressure and lower potassium; the sweets add sugar and some sugar-free versions contain toxic xylitol. If your dog has eaten liquorice, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is liquorice poisonous to dogs?
Caution. Liquorice is best avoided for dogs and should not be given as a treat.
Check liquorice for another pet
Sources
Our verdict on whether dogs can eat liquorice draws on established UK and US veterinary and welfare organisations. Individual pets, quantities and preparation vary — always confirm with your own vet.