Yes, technically Goldendoodle can eat sugar, but it's not recommended. While sugar isn't toxic for Goldendoodles, just like with humans, if they get too much it will have some adverse effects on their health.

Too much sugar can lead to obesity, cavities, dental issues, diabetes and even behavioural changes like hyperactivity or aggression. 

What Is Sugar?

Sugar is a type of carbohydrate found in many different foods. It comes from fruits, vegetables and dairy products, as well as processed foods like table sugar and honey.

Sugar is in almost everything we eat, but not all sugars are created equal. Natural sugars found in whole foods like fruits and vegetables don’t have the same effects on your Goldendoodle’s health as added sugars like table sugar or honey. 

Fructose vs Glucose

Fructose is the type of sugar found in most fruits. Fructose is metabolized differently than other sugars, so it’s better for Goldendoodles to get their sugar from natural sources like fruit rather than processed or added sources.

Glucose is the main source of energy for the body and is found in carbohydrates such as pasta, breads, fruits, and vegetables.

Unlike fructose, glucose is absorbed quickly into the bloodstream which provides energy to cells. It also supplies essential vitamins and minerals needed by the body for optimal function.

How Much Sugar Can a Goldendoodle Have?

First of all, your dog shouldn't eat plain sugar. This can cause an upset stomach, diarrhoea, bloat and gas.

If your Goldendoodle is getting sugar from natural sources like fruit and vegetables, then they should be limited to no more than 10 per cent of their daily caloric intake.

This means that if your Goldendoodle is getting 1,000 calories per day, then no more than 100 of those calories should come from sugar. 

Dangers of Too Much Sugar

One of the main, long term consequences for your Goldendoodle of eating too much sugar is diabetes. Diabetes is when your Goldendoodle's body is not producing enough insulin or their body is not responding properly to the insulin.

This makes your goldendoodles level of glucose (sugar) very high, which will lead to serious health issues, such as diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage), vision loss, kidney or heart problems.

Most common symptoms of diabetes is thirst, a change in appetite, weight loss, lethargy and fatigue.

Dangers of Not Enough Sugar

Hypoglycemia is when your Goldendoodle’s level of sugar is too low. This can happen if they are not eating enough, or if their body is not responding properly to insulin.

The symptoms of hypoglycemia can vary depending on the severity, however some common signs are disorientation, weakness, trembling or shaking, seizures and even coma. The best way to prevent hypoglycemia is to make sure your Goldendoodle is eating a balanced diet with the right amounts of carbohydrates, proteins and fats. 

Glycemic Index of Foods for Your Goldendoodle

The glycemic index is a measure of how quickly and how high certain foods cause increases in blood glucose levels.

Foods that are low on the glycemic index, such as most fruits and vegetables, beans, dairy, and some grains, will not cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels.

Medium-GI foods, such as brown rice boiled at 68 on the scale, will cause a moderate increase in blood sugar levels. 

High-GI foods such as cornflakes at 81 on the scale will cause a rapid spike in blood sugar levels.

It's important to keep an eye on your Goldendoodle's diet and ensure that they are getting all of their essential nutrients while avoiding any potential health risks from eating high-GI foods.

Can Goldendoodles Have Sugar Substitutes?

No, Goldendoodles should not have any sugar substitutes.

Sugar substitutes like Xylitol , Sorbitol, or Aspartame can be toxic and even fatal to Goldendoodles.

Always make sure to check the ingredients list on all food products you give your dog, as some may contain sugar substitutes which can be dangerous if consumed.

Can Goldendoodles Eat Candies?

No, Goldendoodles shouldn't eat candies. Candies are usually made from a ton of sugar, artificial preservatives and other unhealthy ingredients. They can also cause an upset stomach, diarrhoea, bloating and gas.

Even if the candy isn't immediately toxic, it's still high in sugar which can be dangerous when consumed in large quantities.

What Are The Alternatives To Sugar For Goldendoodles?

Goldendoodles don't really have the sweet tooth like we humans do, so you don't need to worry about giving them something sweet. Instead, focus on getting them the right balance of proteins, carbohydrates and fats that they need to stay healthy and active.

You can also give your Goldendoodle a variety of treats like fruits and vegetables, certain dairy products, fish and lean meats. All these foods are natural and healthy, and can provide your Goldendoodle with the vitamins and minerals they need to stay healthy.

When looking for treats, try to find ones that don't contain any sugar or artificial preservatives as these are unhealthy for your pup.

Conclusion

So now you know, that even though Goldendoodles can't eat sugar, there are still plenty of healthy treats and alternatives that you can give your pup to keep them happy and healthy.

Just make sure to pay attention to the ingredients list on all foods you give your pooch, as some may contain sugar substitutes which can be dangerous for them.