Can Dogs Eat Licorice

The Short Answer: No

Licorice is not safe for dogs. Black licorice contains glycyrrhizin — a compound derived from licorice root that is toxic to dogs and can cause serious health problems including elevated blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances, and muscle weakness. Red licorice (like Twizzlers) doesn't contain real licorice root but is still loaded with sugar, artificial flavors, and additives that are harmful to dogs. Neither type is appropriate for canine consumption.

Why Licorice Is Dangerous for Dogs

1. Glycyrrhizin in Black Licorice — Toxic to Dogs

Real black licorice contains glycyrrhizin, a sweet compound extracted from the licorice plant root (Glycyrrhiza glabra). Glycyrrhizin is toxic to dogs and can cause:

• Elevated blood pressure (hypertension)
• Electrolyte imbalances — particularly low potassium (hypokalemia)
• Muscle weakness and lethargy
• Fluid retention and swelling
• Abnormal heart rhythms in severe cases
• Vomiting and diarrhea

These effects are cumulative — regular exposure to even small amounts of black licorice can cause progressive health problems in dogs.

2. High Sugar Content

Both black and red licorice are very high in sugar. Excess sugar causes obesity, dental decay, blood sugar instability, and digestive upset in dogs.

3. Red Licorice — No Real Licorice, Still Unsafe

Red licorice products like Twizzlers and Red Vines do not contain real licorice root extract, so they don't carry the glycyrrhizin risk. However, they are made from corn syrup, enriched flour, artificial flavors, and artificial colors — none of which are appropriate for dogs. They are essentially sugar ropes with no nutritional value.

4. Anise Flavoring

Some licorice candies are flavored with anise oil rather than real licorice root. While regular anise is generally considered less harmful than star anise for dogs, anise oil in concentrated amounts can cause digestive upset.

5. Xylitol in Sugar-Free Varieties

Sugar-free licorice products may contain xylitol, which is extremely toxic to dogs. Always check the label.

6. Artificial Colors and Preservatives

Licorice candy contains artificial colors (including black food coloring from carbon black or other sources) and preservatives that are not appropriate for canine consumption.

What If My Dog Ate Licorice?

If your dog ate black licorice, contact your veterinarian — especially if they consumed a significant amount or show any symptoms. If the licorice was sugar-free, check for xylitol and treat as a medical emergency if present. If your dog ate red licorice (no real licorice root), monitor for vomiting or diarrhea.

Animal Poison Control: ASPCA (888) 426-4435 | Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661

Signs to Watch For

• Lethargy or muscle weakness
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Swelling or fluid retention
• Increased thirst or urination
• Loss of appetite
• Sudden weakness or collapse (xylitol)

Safe Chewy Treat Alternatives

👉 Amazing Dog Treats – Beef Cheek Rolls (No Hide, Safe Rawhide Alternative) — a long-lasting natural chew with real beef flavor. All the chewy satisfaction of licorice without any glycyrrhizin, sugar, or artificial additives.

👉 Blue Buffalo Nudges Jerky Bites – Natural Chicken Dog Treats — chewy, flavorful, and made with natural ingredients. A safe and satisfying licorice alternative.

The Bottom Line

Licorice is not safe for dogs. Black licorice contains glycyrrhizin, which is toxic and causes serious cardiovascular and electrolyte effects. Red licorice is sugar-laden with no nutritional value. Sugar-free varieties may contain xylitol. Keep all licorice away from your dog and choose chewy treats made specifically for canine health.