We’ve all ordered pup cups to realize a pup cup is simply whipped cream. But is whipped cream for dogs safe to eat? Can dogs eat whipped cream? Let’s find out!
So you are sitting in the Starbucks line with your best friend in tow when the barista asks if they would like a pup cream, whip they explain is whipped cream with a dog bone on top. You say yes but then start to think, can dogs have whipped cream? It is dairy after all and that can be hard to digest.
The short answer is yes, dogs can have whipped cream in small amounts and as long as they aren’t lactose intolerant. There are some other general precautions and information when serving this tasty treat. Just keep on reading for all the details!
Is Whipped Cream Safe For Dogs?
Can dogs eat whipped cream? Generally, yes – but is whipped cream good for dogs? Not really and there is a difference in what kind of whipped cream you use. Dogs do not have as many of the enzymes needed to digest lactose and the sugar that comes with it. So even if your dog is not strictly lactose intolerant, whipped cream is safe only as an occasional treat.
Traditionally whipped cream is made with dairy fat and sugar. The reason it is safe for most dogs is that it is served in a whipped form, meaning even if it looks like a lot, the fat, calorie, and sugar content is very low. However, if your dog is lactose intolerant, then any dairy whipped cream should be avoided.
Can I Give My Dog Whipped Cream – Any Kind?
So there is some difference in types of whipped cream. Below you will find some common types and whether they are ok for dogs.
Can dogs have Cool Whip?
Cool Whip is made from oil, water, skim milk, thickening agents, sugar, and flavorings so yes, it is safe in moderation for dogs.
Can dogs have Reddi Whip?
Reddi Whip is made with heavy cream, sugar, milk, and flavor and is also safe for dogs in moderation.
Can dogs have coconut whipped cream?
Yes, coconut whipped cream, oat milk, or almond milk whipped cream are all great alternatives to dairy whipped cream for lactose intolerant dogs.
Can dogs have homemade whipped cream?
Homemade whipped cream is the best option for dogs because you can make it without any additives and without sugar. It is the safest option for dogs.
Can dogs have sugar-free whipped cream?
Because sugar-free whipped cream is made with xylitol, under no circumstances should a dog be allowed to eat sugar-free whipped cream. Xylitol is toxic to dogs.
How Much Whipped Cream Can Dogs Have?
We have already answered the question of whether can I give my dog whipped cream, but how much can you feed your pup? Because most whipped cream has sugar and dairy, it should only be given as a treat and not make up more than 10% of a dog’s daily diet.
In maintaining this ratio, it is important to be cautious of the size of your dog and how old they are.
Can puppies have whipped cream?
Puppies are tricky because while they can have whipped cream, you have to be careful when serving it the first time. Always start with a very small amount (a lick off your finger) to see if they show any type of allergic reaction in the next few hours. If they do not, then your puppy can also enjoy whipped cream in moderation!
Ways To Serve Whipped Cream
There are so many fun ways to serve your dog whipped cream! Here are just a few of Rhubarb and my favorites.
Stuffed: You can use whipped cream to fill an enrichment toy like a KONG or West Paw Toppl and then freeze it. I find Cool Whip to be the best for this because it is a little stiffer making it easier to stuff.
In a cup: The infamous pup cup had to be included on this list! Plus, if you want to make them at home for your dog, check out our Puppuccino guide for ways to spice them up and add nutrients to the standard pup cup.
On a spoon: This could also be just serving it to them in a bowl or on a plate plain. This is ideal if you are trying to get your dog to eat their monthly tick pill or other medicine.