Can Dogs Eat Licorice

The Short Answer: No — Licorice Candy Is Not Safe for Dogs

Licorice candy is not safe for dogs. Commercial licorice candy is very high in sugar and contains anise oil, artificial flavors, and other additives not appropriate for dogs. Real licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that can cause serious health problems in dogs including sodium and potassium imbalances, high blood pressure, and muscle weakness. Both licorice candy and licorice root should be kept away from dogs.

Why Licorice Is Not Safe for Dogs

1. Glycyrrhizin in Real Licorice Root — Toxic Compound

Real licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, which causes:

• Sodium and potassium electrolyte imbalances
• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Muscle weakness and lethargy
• Fluid retention and edema
• In severe cases: heart problems

Some licorice candies contain real licorice root extract. Always check the ingredient list.

2. Very High Sugar in Licorice Candy

Commercial licorice candy — whether black licorice or red licorice (Twizzlers, Red Vines) — is very high in sugar. Excess sugar causes digestive upset, obesity, and dental disease in dogs.

3. Anise Oil

Licorice candy contains anise oil for its characteristic flavor. While anise is not acutely toxic to dogs in small amounts, it can cause digestive upset and is not appropriate for regular consumption.

4. Red Licorice — Not Actually Licorice

Red licorice (Twizzlers, Red Vines) does not contain actual licorice root — it is flavored with artificial strawberry or cherry flavoring. While it avoids the glycyrrhizin concern, it is still very high in sugar and artificial additives, making it inappropriate for dogs.

5. Xylitol in Some Sugar-Free Varieties

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

What If My Dog Ate Licorice?

Check the ingredient list for xylitol and licorice root extract. If xylitol is present, contact your veterinarian immediately. If real licorice root extract is present, contact your veterinarian. If plain sugar licorice candy with no toxic ingredients, monitor for vomiting or diarrhea.

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

Safe Treat Alternatives

👉 Zuke's Mini Naturals Dog Training Treats – Real Chicken — small, low-calorie treats made with wholesome ingredients. A safe everyday treat alternative to licorice.

👉 Nutro Crunchy Dog Treats with Real Peanut Butter — a safe, delicious treat with no sugar overload or licorice root concerns.

The Bottom Line

Licorice candy is not safe for dogs. Real licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, which causes electrolyte imbalances and high blood pressure. All licorice candy is very high in sugar. Sugar-free varieties may contain xylitol. Keep all licorice away from your dog.