dog eating paper wrapper

My Dog Ate a Cupcake Wrapper! What Should I Do?

Did your dog swipe a cupcake off the counter, eating the cupcake along with the wrapper? Veterinarian Ellen Marcinkiewicz walks through your next steps.

Last Updated: January 18, 2024 | 7 min read | Leave a Comment

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This article was written by a veterinarian, but it should not substitute as contact with a trained professional. If your dog ate a cupcake wrapper, we recommend you contact your veterinarian.

Few of us can resist a freshly baked cupcake, and neither can our dogs . So, unfortunately, it’s not an uncommon scenario for a dog to gobble up a tasty cupcake left within reach and eat the cupcake wrapper in the process!

In many cases, small traditional paper wrappers may pass through a dog’s gut without causing a major problem. Some materials can cause more harm than others, but in most cases, it’s fairly harmless. The humble cupcake itself also may present some serious health hazards to your dog.

The following is a guide to recognizing the risks if your dog has eaten a cupcake wrapper and when to be worried. Remember it is always best to consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns about the health of your dog.

Are Cupcake Wrappers Bad For Dogs?

There are a few different types of cupcake and muffin wrappers available. The risk varies depending on the sort of wrapper eaten by your dog. Here are the most common wrappers that might be eaten by your pup, along with when you need to worry.

Silicone Cupcake Wrappers

Reusable silicone wrappers or cupcake cases are becoming more popular, but unfortunately are problematic if eaten by a do. Silicone wrappers have a high risk of causing a blockage in their gut (intestinal obstruction).

Foil Cupcake Wrappers

Understandably, many owners are concerned about tin foil wrappers causing aluminum toxicity or poisoning. Thankfully, it is extremely unlikely that your dog will absorb a toxic dose of aluminum after eating a foil cupcake liner. The major risk is the wrapper’s potential to become lodged in the gut or as a choking hazard. This is especially true for small dogs and puppies.

Paper Cupcake Wrappers

Traditional paper liners are more likely to pass through the gut safely , especially if chewed into small pieces or eaten by a large breed dog. However, they are still a possible choking hazard and have the potential to cause a blockage. This also goes for any waxed paper or parchment paper that might have been eaten in the process.

Leftover Cupcake Ingredients

We also need to consider the ingredients used to make the cupcakes, especially if the dog has eaten the cupcake (or multiple cupcakes) in the process. Common ingredients such as chocolate , artificial sweeteners containing Xylitol (which can also be labeled as “birch sugar” or “birch sap”), and raisins are all toxic to dogs . If your canine companion has consumed any of these toxic foods, contact a veterinarian immediately.

My Dog Ate a Cupcake Wrapper, What Now?

If your pup decided to make quick work of a cupcake while you had your back turned in the kitchen, there are a few steps you’ll need to take. As previously stated, contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog is lethargic or displaying any signs of a bowel obstruction.

Step 1: Check Your Dog

Look for any signs of pain or distress. If your pup is having difficulty breathing (breathing faster than normal, having trouble taking breaths, has pale or blue-tinged gums) or appears to be choking, go to an emergency vet immediately. If your dog is bright and seems comfortable, continue to step 2. Take note of any vomiting, as this should be reported to a vet.

Step 2: Cleanup & Prevent Access

Remove the remaining cupcakes and any associated baking paper and equipment from reach of your pets. You don’t want them swallowing any more wrappers. If your furry friend raided the trashcan and there is a large mess, move your pets to another secure area of the house while you clean up.

Step 3: Gather Your Information

Try to work out what has been eaten. How many cupcakes are missing? What were the wrappers made of, and how much of the wrapper has been eaten? Has the wrapper been chewed into small pieces? Did the cupcakes contain any toxic ingredients? This might mean going through the trashcan or piecing together bits of the wrapper. The more information, the better.

Step 4: Call Your Veterinarian

Assess the risk factors. If you think your dog has eaten just a small amount of paper wrapper, that has a good chance of passing through (especially a large breed dog). You may elect just to wait and monitor. If your pup is a small breed or puppy and has eaten a foil or a silicone wrapper, call your vet ASAP . If your pup has eaten any toxic foods , is unwell in any way, or you aren’t sure, you also need to call your veterinarian.

Make sure you give them all the information you have, including the age, breed, and size of your dog and what signs (if any) they are currently showing. From here, your vet will tell you if you need to come into the clinic. They may also advise you to wait and monitor your pup closely at home. Make sure you follow all of their instructions closely. You might see pieces of wrapper passing through their feces over the next 48-72 hours .

What Happens Next?

If your dog needs to go to the vet, they will start by taking an extensive history from you, so they can assess the level of risk . They will then carefully examine your dog and advise you on the next steps. This may be to wait and monitor at home if they think the wrapper is likely to pass through.

If they are concerned about the cupcake wrapper causing a blockage, they will perform tests such as x-rays, ultrasound examination, and blood work. If the wrapper is causing a blockage, your vet will discuss surgical options to remove it under a general anesthetic.

Here are some of the possible outcomes after your dog has eaten a cupcake wrapper:

Dog Passes The Cupcake Wrapper

In many cases, especially for larger breed dogs, small amounts of paper and even foil from a cupcake case may pass through the gut with no major concerns over the next 48-72 hours . It’s not uncommon for canines to have a small amount of diarrhea and a bit of an upset tummy after eating something inedible.

However, if your dog is showing any of the signs associated with a blockage, such as vomiting, unable to keep water down, lethargy, or a poor appetite, you should seek veterinary attention.

Dog Vomits Up Wrapper At Home

This is also a possibility, but it can be difficult to know if the entire wrapper has been brought up (or if any more have been left behind). If you can stomach it, use gloves and see if you can work out how much of the wrapper has been brought up. You’ll want to see if any is missing based on the information you have. If you’re unsure, or the vomiting continues, speak to your vet as soon as possible .

It is important never to make your pet vomit at home. This should only be performed by a veterinary professional who will assess if it is appropriate to do so. They will then provide an injection to perform the procedure as safely as possible. Bits of cupcake wrapper can cause damage coming back up.

Toxicity From Cupcake Ingredients

As previously discussed, many of the ingredients we use to bake cupcakes are toxic to dogs. If your cupcake was just plain with no major ingredients, then most basic bread products won’t cause harm . But if your cupcakes were made with anything toxic, this should be noted to your veterinarian.

Common toxic ingredients include coffee grounds , chocolate, macadamia nuts , artificial sweeteners containing Xylitol (it’s also in gum and in some peanut butter ), alcohol for flavoring, and raisins. Your vet will be able to determine the risk of toxicity from these ingredients based on the amount eaten and the size of your pup.

They will then recommend the appropriate treatment. This may include placing your dog on a drip in the hospital or giving activated charcoal to help with toxin elimination. Fatty foods such as butter or coconut oil also pose a potential risk as they can trigger pancreatitis (painful inflammation of the pancreas and associated illness).

Blockage & Perforation

One of the biggest hazards from a dog swallowing a cupcake wrapper is a blockage to the gut. This is also known as an ‘intestinal obstruction,’ where your vet will need to surgically remove the wrapper from the intestines or stomach. In some cases, foreign material can also be removed with the use of an endoscope (an instrument with a small camera).

If left untreated, an obstruction can lead to perforation of the gut and leakage of gut contents into the abdomen. This causes a life-threatening infection known as septic peritonitis . A true bowel obstruction will never pass on its own, and time is of the essence. Early treatment is often significantly cheaper and safer than delay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below are common questions you may have about cupcake wrapper ingestion with your dog. If you feel we’ve missed any, feel free to drop us a line in the comments section!

How can I prevent my dog from getting cupcake wrappers?

Prevention is much better than cure, and not having to worry about the hazard a cupcake wrapper may pose. Make sure you keep all baked goods out of reach – this includes the kitchen counter, coffee table, and trash can. Pet-secure trash cans are available, or you can consider removing the trash from areas your dog can access.

When having guests over, make sure they are careful not to drop food or leave wrappers in easy to reach places. It is especially important to supervise small children closely when eating around dogs. You might even consider keeping your dog in a separate room when baking or hosting guests if they are particularly food-motivated!

Can a dog’s stomach digest a cupcake wrapper?

While small pieces of paper might be digested in your dog’s stomach, unfortunately, cupcake wrappers made of foil and silicone won’t be. This is also true of larger amounts of waxed paper. This means one of two things. The undigested wrapper will either pass through the gut safely or it won’t be able to and will become blocked. As mentioned, blockages require veterinary intervention.

What are the signs of a gut blockage in dogs?

Common signs seen with bowel obstruction are vomiting (especially multiple times), poor appetite, quiet behavior, lethargy, and straining to defecate without producing feces. If your dog is showing any of these signs, seek urgent veterinary attention.

Can a dog die from eating a cupcake wrapper?

It would be rare for a dog to die from eating a cupcake wrapper, but it can happen if a gut blockage caused by a liner is left untreated. If you suspect a bowel obstruction, you should call your vet for advice.

Is it bad if a dog eats aluminum foil?

Aluminum foil is not toxic to dogs. In most cases, small amounts will pass safely through the gut. However, aluminum foil is not digestible, and large amounts can cause gut blockages.

Final Thoughts

While a normal, paper cupcake or muffin wrapper is unlikely to cause problems except in the smallest of dogs , silicone and foil wrappers are more dangerous. You should also consider whether any toxic ingredients were eaten alongside the cupcake wrapper. If your dog decides to eat one when you aren’t looking, you should call your vet immediately. They will be able to help you decide on the appropriate treatment.

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My Dog Ate A Muffin Wrapper: Should I Worry? (Solved & Explained!)

So, you’ve kept the actual muffin away from your dog, but what happens when they dig the wrapper out of the trash? Is it okay if the dog ate muffin wrapper?

Thankfully, the wrapper itself is designed to ‘technically’ be edible, downgrading the situation to what basically amounts to ‘my dog ate paper’ – unless there was chocolate residue on it. Sans the chocolate scenario, however, what your dog doesn’t digest should pass through their body within 24 to 28 hours.

This is a question that deserves a little more detailed answer, however, so in this article we’ll explore it in a little more detail so that you have the real scoop on muffin wrapper ingestion and what you need to know. Let’s dive-in and get down to the facts of the matter!

Table of Contents

Are muffin wrappers really edible?

Small dogs and muffin wrappers, chocolate muffin wrappers require a vet visit, chocolate toxicity by type and your dog’s weight, some final words on muffin wrappers and your dog.

The proper answer for this would be ‘mostly’, as a lot will depend on the vendor and the type of wrappers that they are using. Cupcakes, for instance, are most often lined with an edible wrapper, though muffins might be the same, or they could employ paper, and in worst-case scenarios, it could be foil.

Even with the thin paper wrappers, they aren’t exactly what you would call nutritious, but depending on the thickness they will typically digest – either partially or fully – and pass through your dog’s system to show up in their stool.

Your dog might vomit a little or perhaps get a case of diarrhea, but as long as it’s not a case of recurring vomiting or excessive diarrhea then it will usually pass. Too many wrappers, however, will gain a collective mass that could cause blockage and the risk of choking or obstruction is greatly increased with foil wrappers.

Some wrappers, especially pre-2002, also employ perfluorinated chemicals for waterproofing, and these have actually been linked to kidney and other types of cancers. Ultimately, while 1 muffin wrapper won’t be a problem, you’ll need to discourage regular ingestion and hide those wrappers if your dog tends to scavenge the trash bags when you aren’t looking.

With smaller dogs, it’s best not to ‘watch and wait’, but rather to put them in their crate and pay a visit to your vet immediately. While 1 small wrapper might not warrant this, any more than this is going to have a higher chance of blockage than a single wrapper alone and you really don’t want to risk that.

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The liners might be waxed, making them harder to digest, and the cellulose fibers that make up that paper aren’t easy on the stomach, either. Due to their diminutive build, smaller dogs are simply going to have a harder time , so getting your vet into the mix quickly is always going to be the best option.

Chocolate muffins are where things can actually get dangerous, especially if they have any sort of frosting in them, but even cake bits that have chocolate can be dangerous due to the small amounts that are required for chocolate toxicity in dogs.

Chocolate contains caffeine, but more importantly it also has a chemical called Theobromine, which is produced as a by-product of roasting cacao beans to make chocolate. Unfortunately, while humans can digest this easily and even get an ‘endorphin rush’ from it, your dog’s physiology is a very different matter.

Theobromine gets released from the chocolate ingestion, starting at the stomach, but then becoming reabsorbed once it hits the intestines, leading it to cycle through your dog’s bloodstream again and again.

Theobromine actually has a half-life of around 18 hours in dogs and can damage their organs during this time ! This can lead to seizures or even a coma and if enough is ingested, it can be fatal.

If chocolate is involved, then you are going to need a thorough understanding of exactly how toxic this is by your dog’s weight. While any chocolate ingestion is a 100% ‘get your vet involved NOW’ scenario, here are the toxic amounts so that you will have that knowledge:

• Baking chocolate – The ‘big baddy’ of the bunch, baking chocolate just take .2 ounces per pound of your dog’s mass/body weight to be considered dangerously toxic.
• Milk chocolate – Aside from white chocolate, milk chocolate is the least toxic, at .5 ounces per every pound of your dog’s weight.
• Semi-sweet and dark chocolate chips – .3 ounces is the toxic amount per-pound for semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips, which are a common addition to many popular muffins.
• White chocolate – White chocolate in a muffin is actually good news, as it doesn’t really have more than trace amounts of caffeine or theobromine, since it’s not technically a ‘real’ chocolate, but rather just marketed that way. It’s really just cocoa butter, sugar, and coloring, unless real cacao chunks are added on purpose (and you’ll see those).

This should give you a basic idea of the toxicity levels, but let’s drive the lesson home with a comparison that is easy to visualize. With baking chocolate, the most toxic variety, that .2 ounce-per-pound ratio means that 2 little squares of baking chocolate can be fatal for a 20-pound dog.

It’s that serious – so if those muffin wrappers had a bit of chocolate residue or even if they MIGHT have, then you should play it safe and pack your pooch into their travel crate, because it’s time to visit your veterinarian.

Summing things up, in most cases, muffin wrappers won’t be a big deal. The cellulose paper won’t digest very well, but it should pass through into your dog’s feces somewhere between the next 24 to 48 hours. With smaller dogs, there is an increased risk of blockage, so consider the vet in these cases to avoid this danger.

Foil wrappers are riskier, and also a good excuse for a vet visit, and if any chocolate was involved in that muffin then an immediate checkup is vital. Now that you have the facts, you can examine any remaining wrappers and you should have a good idea of your next steps, but if you are in doubt then don’t worry

Your vet is just a phone call away!

My name is Ken and I’m one of the staff writers at Petloverguy.com. I’ve cared for pets most of my life starting with hamsters, turtles, and snakes. Then moving up to parakeets, guinea pigs, and even ducks. I currently live with two yorkies and a chihuahua mix.

My Dog Ate a Muffin Wrapper: What to Do Next

If your dog ate a muffin wrapper, you might be wondering if it’s safe or if you should be worried. While it may seem harmless, there are a few things you should know about muffin wrapper ingestion in dogs.

In the sections below, explore the potential risks and actions you can take to keep your canine pal safe.

Muffin wrappers are typically made of paper or foil, and while they may not be toxic to dogs, they can cause problems if ingested. Dogs who eat muffin wrappers may experience digestive issues such as vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation.

In some rare cases, the wrapper can cause an intestinal blockage, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

If your dog has eaten a muffin wrapper, it’s important to take action right away. In the next section, we’ll discuss the steps you should take to ensure your dog’s safety and well-being.

Key Takeaways

• Muffin wrapper ingestion in dogs can cause digestive issues and potentially life-threatening intestinal blockages.
• If your dog eats a muffin wrapper, take action immediately to prevent further complications.
• Preventive measures such as keeping muffin wrappers out of reach can help keep your dog safe.

Muffin Wrapper Ingestion in Dogs

If your dog ate a muffin wrapper, you might be wondering what the immediate and long-term effects could be. Here’s what you need to know:

Immediate Effects

The immediate effects of a dog ingesting a muffin wrapper can vary depending on the size of the dog and the amount of wrapper ingested. Some dogs may experience vomiting or diarrhea shortly after ingestion, while most dogs will not show any symptoms at all , unlike if they eat something larger, such as a sock.

Long-Term Effects

If your dog ingests a muffin wrapper, there can be potential long-term effects. The wrapper can cause an intestinal blockage, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Symptoms of an intestinal blockage include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and abdominal pain.

To prevent your dog from ingesting muffin wrappers, it is crucial to keep them out of reach. Additionally, if your dog tends to scavenge through the trash, make sure to dispose of any muffin wrappers or other food packaging in a secure trash can.

If you suspect that your dog has ingested a muffin wrapper and is showing symptoms of an intestinal blockage, seek veterinary care immediately. Your vet may recommend an X-ray or ultrasound to determine if there is a blockage and the best course of treatment.

Actions to Take

If your dog ate a muffin wrapper, it is essential to take appropriate actions to ensure their safety. Below are some recommended actions to take if your dog ate a muffin wrapper:

Observation

The first step is to observe your dog for any signs of discomfort or distress. Here are some signs to look out for:

• Abdominal pain
• Loss of appetite
• Unusual behavior

If your dog shows any of these signs, it is essential to take action immediately. However, it is also important to note that some dogs may not show any symptoms at all.

Emergency Vet Visit

If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is crucial to take your dog to the vet immediately. The vet will conduct a thorough examination and recommend appropriate treatment based on the severity of the situation. Here are some things you can expect during an emergency vet visit:

• Physical examination: The vet will conduct a physical examination to check for any signs of discomfort or distress.
• X-rays: The vet may also conduct x-rays to check if the wrapper has caused any blockages in your dog’s digestive system.
• Treatment: Depending on the severity of the situation, the vet may recommend treatment such as medication, surgery or hospitalization.

It is important to note that prevention is always better than cure. To prevent your dog from eating muffin wrappers in the future, make sure to keep them out of reach. You can also try using alternative wrappers such as silicone or aluminum foil.

Preventive Measures

Training Your Dog

Training your dog is one of the most effective ways to prevent them from eating harmful items like muffin wrappers. You can teach your dog the “leave it” command to discourage them from picking up objects from the ground or eating things they shouldn’t. Here are some tips for training your dog:

• Use positive reinforcement techniques such as treats and praise to encourage good behavior.
• Start training when your dog is young, as it is easier to teach them good habits early on.
• Be consistent with your commands and follow through with consequences if your dog does not listen.
• Practice in different environments to help your dog generalize the command.

Safe Eating Environment

Creating a safe eating environment for your dog is another important preventive measure. Here are some tips to help you create a safe environment for your dog:

• Keep your trash can securely closed and out of reach of your dog.
• Store food and treats in a secure location where your dog cannot access them.
• Supervise your dog during meal times to prevent them from eating harmful objects.
• Avoid feeding your dog table scraps, as some human foods can be toxic to dogs.

By following these preventive measures, you can help keep your dog safe and prevent them from eating harmful items like muffin wrappers. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian if you have any concerns about your dog’s health or behavior.

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Dog Ate a Muffin or Cupcake Wrapper – What to Do Next

Cupcake and muffin wrappers can pose a threat to a dog’s health if they are eaten as a whole. Muffin wrappers are typically made of materials such as foil and paper. The former is a lot more dangerous to dogs because foil isn’t digestible. Eating muffin wrapper can increase the risk of intestinal blockage and eventually lead to a number of digestive symptoms ranging from mild to severe in terms of severity.

Can a Dog Digest a Muffin Wrapper?

It depends on the type of material used for the muffin wrapper. As we mentioned earlier, cupcake and muffin wrappers are made of various materials including paper, plastic, wax, and foil. None of these materials are easily digestible with the exception of traditional paper wrapper which may safely pass along the dog’s gut without too many issues.

The remaining materials are likely to cause blockage, especially if it was a puppy or small-sized dog that ate the muffin wrapper. If left untreated, intestinal blockage can lead to serious health complications such as extensive discomfort and severe fluid loss. For this reason, we would strongly recommend calling the emergency vet for advice if you believe your dog ate a whole muffin wrapper made of indigestible material.

Danger of Muffin Ingredients

There is also the health risk that could be introduced by the ingredients used for the muffin. The crumbs of the muffin and cupcake typically stick to the wrapper so dogs may ingest some of it as they swallow the wrapper. This is dangerous if the muffin contains ingredients that are known to be toxic to dogs, including chocolate and artificial sweetener.

What to do if your dog ate a muffin wrapper

Call the vet for advice. Until the dog is taken to the vet, make sure he is watched over in case he starts to shown signs of discomfort. It could end up being a false positive and your dog’s gut may pass along the muffin wrapper just fine. Not taking any action, however, is not a risk we feel is worth taking in this instance given the dangers that can be introduced by an intestinal blockage.

Want to know what else aside from muffins (and their wrappers) can be unsafe for dogs to eat ? Our human food database covers it all with over 100 food items dogs should or shouldn’t eat.

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My Dog Ate A Muffin Wrapper: What Should I Do?

Our dogs find muffins yummy as much as we do. With their great sense of smell and desperate quick feet, most dogs will lay their paws on any muffins left unattended. All you need to do is simply take your eyes away. Unfortunately, our smart flurry friends are yet to figure out how to differentiate muffins from their wraps.

Dogs love muffins and as a dog owner, you always get worried if you find your dog eating a muffin along with its wrapper. This article will guide you on what you need to do if your dog ate a muffin wrapper , the effects of eating a muffin wrapper and how to handle it.

What Should You Do If Your Dog Ate a Muffin Wrapper?

In many cases, when dogs eat muffins together with their wraps , their bodies naturally handle it. But things get messy sometimes, and you are faced with a sick dog.

In every case, it is fine to get antsy when your dog ingests a muffin wrapper . However, there are a few questions you need to answer to help you out:

• How many muffins were consumed?
• Do they contain any toxic ingredients?
• What are the muffin materials made of?

These investigations will prove helpful in dealing with any unpleasant symptoms your dog may later experience. Your veterinarian may also need this information for diagnosis. You should also block your dog’s access to the muffin wrappers to avoid more ingestion.

As a quick aid, give your dog some Pepto Bismol or Imodium A-D to help it feel better. The recommended dosage is one teaspoon, or 1/3 tablet, of Pepto Bismol every 8 hours . You can also try 1/4 of a 2mg Imodium A-D tablet every 12 hours.

Here are answers to some of the questions that will likely burden your mind when your dog is in this situation.

Are Muffin Wrappers Bad For Dogs?

Muffin wrappers are not food supplements or drugs, so they are not good for your dogs in any way . However, they usually aren’t toxic either.

There are different types of wrappers for muffins. They include silicon, aluminum foil, and paper wrappers. These food-grade materials are generally chemical-free and non-toxic to you or your dog. Notwithstanding, these materials could give your dog a stomach upset and could even lead to gastrointestinal blockage in severe cases .

Gastrointestinal tract blockage is quite a dangerous occurrence and shouldn’t be left untreated. This is because it could lead to perforation of the gut and leakage of the gut contents into the abdomen.

Such perforation or leakage could further result in a life-threatening infection known as septic peritonitis. Septic Peritonitis is an inflammatory condition of the peritoneum that occurs secondary to microbial contamination.

Your dog will likely pass out swallowed paper wrappers of muffins, especially if it had masticated it into tiny bits together with the muffin before swallowing. Silicon and aluminum foil wrappers are more likely to pose health hazards to your dog. This is due to their likelihood of causing a blockage in the gastrointestinal tract if they don’t pass through.

Nevertheless, swallowed wrappers are not the only danger that an eaten muffin will pose to a dog. The ingredients a muffin contains can also be harmful to dogs. Dogs find common ingredients like baking chocolate, coffee grounds, macadamia nuts, artificial sweeteners containing xylitol, and raisins toxic.

It is therefore advisable to contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog consumed muffins containing these ingredients in large quantities . If the muffin was just plain with none of these ingredients, then this particularly wouldn’t cause any issue.

Are Muffin Wrappers Digestible?

Generally, a dog’s stomach can digest paper muffin wrappers. The stomach acid could easily dissolve them and eventually pass them out in the dog’s feces. Silicon and aluminum foil muffin wrappers present a more serious situation for dogs.

These materials are not digestible, so dogs usually vomit or pass them out in feces, usually between 48 and 72 hours of ingestion.

However, these materials could get stuck in your dog’s throat, gut or even block the passage between its stomach and the small intestine. This is a very dicey situation that requires the attention of a professional veterinarian.

So, if your dog ate a muffin together with their silicon or aluminum foil wrappers, contact your veterinarian pronto. They may tell you what to do at the moment, or you may have to book an appointment for a physical examination.

What Happens if Your Dog ate a Muffin Wrapper?

Silicon wrappers, an eco-friendly alternative to baking paper and foil, have become popular today because they are reusable. However, dogs cannot digest them when swallowed. This is also true of aluminum foil wrappers and waxed paper wrappers .

Paper muffin wrappers can be digested and passed out of the digestive tract with little or no harm to your dog. But that is not possible for silicon, aluminum foil, or waxed paper wrappers. The possible outcome to expect when your dog swallows these other wrappers is for him to throw up food and water and get them out by doing so.

Aluminum foil muffin wrappers are particularly dangerous as they can cut and graze the intestine . The most obvious sign of this will be the presence of blood in the dog’s stool. Little traces of blood are not immediately dangerous, as small cuts can repair themselves.

However, if there is a lot of blood in the stool, that is a cause for alarm. If the wrap ate was an aluminum foil wrapper, you should feed him a slice of whole-grain bread to help cushion the rough edges of the aluminum foil wrapper and mitigate serious injuries along the intestinal tract.

Monitor your dog closely for the swallowed wrapper in its feces or vomit. If you fail to find this and you are concerned it could be stuck inside him, contact your veterinarian, and follow his instructions.

Can My Dog Get Sick After Eating a Muffin Wrapper?

Yes, your dog can get sick after eating a muffin wrapper. However, the size of your dog could be a determining factor.

Larger dogs could easily swallow and eventually throw up eaten muffin wrappers. They could even avoid getting too sick after eating muffins containing some quantities of unpleasant ingredients. Large pieces of food, bones, and objects can easily make their way through a large dog’s expansive throat.

On the other hand, muffin wrappers can easily get stuck in the throat of small terriers and puppies due to the size of their esophagus. This is a serious situation and could result in fatal damages. The small sizes of these dogs also mean that they could easily be intoxicated if the muffin contains ingredients toxic to dogs.

Irrespective of the dog’s size, there are possible symptoms to look out for if your dog ate a muffin wrapper. These include diarrhea and severe vomiting, low appetite, unusual quiet behavior, bloating, blood in stool, lethargy, and difficulty in defecating. Contact your vet immediately if your dog shows any of these signs .

Laxatives may be administered to your dog to help it throw up the muffin wrappers if possible. Other relief drugs can also be given. More so, your veterinarian may want to place your dog on a special diet that could help him settle his stomach upset. The new (bland) diet could make your dog’s stool appear darker, so do not mistake it for blood.

Can Muffin Wrapper Cause Blockage in the Dog’s Gastrointestinal Tract?

Yes, a muffin wrapper can cause blockage in the dog’s gastrointestinal tract. This is the most adverse possible outcome when a dog swallows a muffin wrapper . If the muffin wrapper fails to pass through the digestive system and gets stuck inside your dog instead, it could result in a blockage.

This is not a good situation, particularly if you cannot tell that your dog is experiencing a blockage. Here is how to find out if a muffin wrapper or even wrappers are stuck in your dog’s GI tract.

Dogs could communicate in ambiguous manners, making it difficult for us to understand their plights sometimes. If your dog swallows a muffin wrapper and begins to show signs other than a guilty face, then you should take it to the vet.

Your veterinarian may have to perform x-rays, ultrasound examination, blood work, and a fecal test for a diagnosis. If there is a blockage, he will discuss surgical options with you to remove it under anesthesia.

Dogs love muffins. But to avoid seeing them get sick from eating muffins together with the wrappers, we have to be proactive. Ensure that muffins and their wrappers are not kept at paws’ reach.

Take away muffins from coffee tables and countertops, no matter how high they may be. If you are hosting a home party, keep your dog in the room if it cannot handle the sight of food. Don’t forget to watch kids when they eat around him, so they don’t feed him.

Endeavor to take away trash cans containing muffin wrappers and leftovers . However, if your dog does eat and ingest muffin wrappers, it is best to seek professional help as soon as possible.

Disclaimer: This blog should not be considered as being professional pet medical advice. The content published on this blog is for informational purposes only. Please always consult with a licensed and local veterinarian for medical advice.

About Shaun Clarke

Shaun is passionate about pets and animals, especially dogs, cats, and rabbits. He owns a dog and a couple of cats too. He loves visiting wildlife sanctuaries and shares a strong bond with animals. When he is not writing, he loves to do a barbecue in the backyard with his family and friends.

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My Dog Ate Paper: Should I Be Worried?

Table of Contents

Pica in Dogs

Boredom, anxiety, or stress, calorie-lacking diet, playing with paper, nutritional deficiencies, endocrine disorders, is eating paper dangerous for my dog, remove access to paper, find out what type of paper and how much, monitor their poop, check for signs of blockage, call your veterinarian, how to prevent my dog from eating paper, will my dog be okay if he ate toilet paper, why do dogs eat paper and socks, what happens if a dog eats plastic, related articles:.

Oh no! My dog ate paper! Is that bad? 

As pet owners, we can't help but worry when our dog eats something they are not supposed to.

But when it comes to times like these, we should try to calm ourselves and not panic since our dogs will be able to sense it and become terrified as well.

Dogs are naturally curious animals.

But they can get a little bit too interested at times. Some dogs may play with random stuff out of curiosity.

This blog discusses everything you need to know if your dog ever ate paper.

We'll tackle whether or not a paper is dangerous t dogs, how to prevent them from eating it again, and more.

Without further ado, let's get right into it!

My Dog Ate Paper: Why Do Dogs Eat Paper?

Before discussing what you should do if your dog eats paper, let's first tackle why dogs eat paper.

Is it delicious for them? Or is it because they are curious?

There are many reasons why dogs eat paper.

Below, we've listed down possible reasons why dogs eat paper.

Pica is a common behavioral issue where a dog consistently eats non-food objects.

To be considered pica, the dog must ingest the item, not just chew on it.

They might eat metal, plastic, clothing, paper, and more.

The most common causes of pica are mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, boredom, stress, or extreme hunger.

However, it can also be caused by sickness, parasites, or nutritional deficiency.

When left alone, dogs suffering from anxiety, stress, or separation anxiety can show destructive behaviors.

Many dog breeds, such as the German Shepherd , Labrador Retriever , Border Collie , and more, are prone to separation anxiety.

Destructive behaviors include chewing on furniture , ripping clothes, and eating paper.

Boredom in dogs can also be the culprit.

Bored dogs will find ways to entertain themselves.

However, their way of entertaining themselves can be from chewing paper, shoes, clothes, furniture, and other destructive behaviors.

Dogs that do not get the right food in terms of calorie content can cause hunger.

If dogs are not getting any food or not enough food, they tend to chew and ingest paper to satisfy their hunger.

One of the simple reasons dogs eat paper is because they are playing with it.

Some dogs like the sound and feeling of shredding paper.

And if your dog loves to tear paper with their mouth, they can accidentally eat a small portion of it.

If you wrap food with paper towels, it will keep the smell and taste of the food.

That's when Fido will start to think of it as treats.

Properly dispose of used paper towels and napkins to prevent your dogs from eating them.

Possible Health Problems

Another reason dogs eat paper is because of a nutrition deficiency.

Dogs eating paper may be craving food items they are not getting.

Paper is made of trees and plant materials they can smell and crave.

They may also be extremely hungry since they are not getting the proper food.

Dogs always begging for food and seeming hungry even after meals might suffer from Polyphagia.

Polyphagia is the term used when a dog is excessively hungry all the time.

Another health issues that will make your dog feel hungrier than usual are endocrine disorders.

Dogs may eat non-food items to satisfy their hunger.

For instance, an increase in appetite is one of the symptoms of Cushing's Disease .

Dogs will feel starved, begging for food or ingesting anything, even non-food items like paper.

Another health issue that can increase a dog's appetite is diabetes .

Diabetes can cause your dog to be hungrier since his body cannot utilize the sugar within the bloodstream.

Again, if you see your dog eating paper, remember not to panic.

According to vets, “Normally, dogs digest paper pretty well.”  However, it can be problematic if your pooch eats much of it.

One dangerous effect that can come when your dog eats plenty of paper is bowel obstruction .

Bowel obstruction (also known as intestinal blockages) usually happens when a dog's stomach or intestines get partially or completely blocked.

The more paper your dog eats, the higher the risk of a blockage.

Food or waste cannot move through the digestive tract when this happens.

Symptoms of intestinal blockages include vomiting , lethargy, diarrhea, bloating, abdominal pain, and more.

Furthermore, chemicals are another concern you should look for when your pup ingests paper.

Watch out for the type of paper your dog ate because some paper may have chemicals that can be toxic and harm your pup.

Printed paper is a no-no due to ink.

These kinds of paper are not meant to be ingested, and the ink used to create these papers can be toxic.

On the other hand, other paper types, such as paper towels, can also pose a risk since they contain formaldehyde and chlorine, which are toxic when eaten.

What To Do If Your Dog Ate Paper

Contact your vet immediately if you suspect your dog consumed any paper product.

Foreign objects such as paper can cause bowel obstructions or chemical concerns.

If you're worried about your dog and don't know what to do next, follow the steps below to ensure your pup is safe and there will be no long-term damage.

The first step is to ensure that they don't eat more paper. Hide these paper products where your dog can't find or reach them.

If your pup loves to go into the trash, try using trash cans with lids to deny them access to it.

The next thing you need to do is to determine what kind of paper your dog ate and how much of it.

Check if they ingested paper that has chemicals on it.

It's best to write all of these notes down, including the type of paper, other ingredients (if any), the amount of paper your dog ate, and when they ate it.

These pieces of information will be very useful for vets to assess the situation properly.

Monitor their poop to see if the paper has passed.

They should've passed it within 24 to 48 hours.

If you don't see any paper in their stool, this can be a problem.

But it can also mean that they have digested the paper since other types of paper can be broken down easily.

If you've already seen the paper pass on their poop, you must watch for signs of bowel obstruction.

Remember that a partial blockage will allow some material to pass through, but a complete blockage won't allow anything to get through.

When we are worried or if anything happens to our dog's health, it's best to seek veterinary advice immediately.

If your pup ate paper, contact your most trusted vet, as he'll be able to discuss the situation with you and decide whether or not they need to bring your pup to the clinic.

The vet will most likely ask you to come to the clinic for an examination if you own a small-sized dog that has eaten a large amount of paper or if your dog is showing symptoms.

When it comes to any danger or sickness, it's best to prevent it than find a cure.

You can prevent your dog from eating paper by removing access to all types of paper products in your home.

When leaving your pup alone at home, remember to close the bathroom doors to prevent them from eating or messing up tissue papers.

Moreover, your dog might be eating paper because of boredom.

If that's the case, provide them with interactive puzzle toys to entertain them.

You should also provide your pup with the right balance of nutrition.

If you're unsure of what to give, consult with your vet or with a pet nutritionist.

My Dog Ate Paper: FAQs

Small amounts of toilet paper can pass through your dog with no complications.

However, large amounts can cause trouble, such as intestinal blockage.

Consult your vet immediately if your dog has eaten any foreign objects.

If your dog eats paper, clothes, socks, and other objects, they may suffer from Pica.

Pica is a behavioral problem in dogs where they consistently eat non-food items.

Plastic is very harmful to dogs as it is not digestible.

It will not break down in their stomachs.

It can cause intestinal blockage, mouth injuries, choking, gastrointestinal perforations, and more.

My Dog Ate Paper: Before You Go…

“My dog ate paper! What should I do?”

The first thing you need to do is calm things down and assess the situation carefully.

There's no need to panic just yet.

Small amounts of paper can normally pass through your pup.

However, if your dog ate a lot of paper, this can be a problem.

The first thing you need to do is to monitor your pup.

Check for signs of distress such as vomiting, diarrhea, or refusal to eat or drink.

If you see these signs, take Fido to the vet immediately because these can be symptoms of intestinal blockage.

But if your dog is acting normal, you still need to monitor their poop and check if the paper has passed through.

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Help! My Dog Ate A Muffin Wrapper

Need any more proof dogs are smart? Yes, they figured out muffins are yummy and they’re on the lookout when they get a whiff of the delicious smell coming from the kitchen.

Turn your back for one minute and your otherwise well-behaved companion will steal the goodies. One thing dogs haven’t figured out yet are the wrappers and this causes their owners a lot of worry.

If you’re scared your pet ate a muffin wrapper, don’t rush to the vet yet! It’s a wait-and-see situation and in most cases your dog will pass the wrapper without a problem.

However, you need to watch him closely for the next few days and examine his poop. But you’re used to it by now, aren’t you?

• My dog ate a chocolate donut…

What is the muffin wrapper made of?

The first thing you need to consider is what was the wrapper made of. Now, most people use paper wrappers, but silicone ones are becoming increasingly popular since they’re reusable. Yet other people use aluminum foil to line the muffin tray.

If your dog ate one or several paper wrappers, chances are he’s going to be OK. Little bits of paper can easily pass through a dog’s digestive system. Plain paper is not toxic and it will be partially digested in the stomach.

If your dog ate a silicone wrapper, the big question is whether or not he chewed on it. When a dog chews a silicone wrapper into little pieces, they will transit the GI tract without causing any inconvenience.

• My dog ate wood and is throwing up

Food-grade silicone products are generally chemical-free so they’re not toxic to you or your dog. However, if your dog managed to swallow a silicone wrapper whole this could cause an intestinal blockage, which will require medical attention. (More on this later.)

Aluminum foil wrappers are not toxic either so you shouldn’t be worried about your dog being poisoned, but you should worry about the damage it might do to his digestive system, cutting or grazing the delicate intestine lining.

The acids in your pet’s stomach might be able to digest at least part of the aluminum foil.

What is the size of the dog?

Big or small, dogs will eat any food they can get their paws on. Obviously, smaller dogs are at a greater risk for either choking on an object or developing an intestinal blockage.

• My dog ate a mushroom and is throwing up…

A dog’s throat is built to expand so as to swallow large pieces of food, bones (or objects), but a toy dog or a puppy can choke even on items such as muffin wrappers. If your pet seems otherwise fine, except for the guilty look on its face, it’s obvious both muffin and wrapper are in his stomach already, so you can eliminate the risk of choking. Still, to be on the safe side every dog owner should know the basic Heimlich maneuver for dogs.

A large dog will have even less problems swallowing something like a muffin wrapper. The real problem is that a foreign object that is easily swallowed might become lodged in the stomach, unable to fit through the opening that connects it to the small intestine. This can happen to both small or large breeds so you’ll want to keep an eye on your dog no matter his size.  

When to be alarmed after your dog has eaten a muffin wrapper

If you’ve just discovered your pet has been eating your muffins complete with the colorful wrappers you should watch out for signs of GI problems.

• Help! My dog ate grape jelly…

When a foreign object, like a piece of balled up aluminum foil, is stuck in your dog’s stomach, the first symptom you might notice is vomiting. Your dog will be vomiting or at least trying to several times a day. This can be very dangerous as, besides the object sitting in his stomach, your dog might also become dehydrated.

Aluminum foil can cut and graze the intestine and the most obvious sign will be blood in the dog’s stool. Little traces of blood are not immediately dangerous, as small cuts can repair themselves. However, if there’s a lot of blood in the stool, that is a cause for alarm.

When a wrapper or pieces of it become lodged in the intestines this will result in a blockage. If the intestine is not totally blocked, some food could still pass and your dog might still poop so you won’t even know he has a problem. 

• My dog ate rib bones and is throwing up

Intestinal blockage can cause various symptoms , such as:

• Vomiting and diarrhea
• Low or no appetite
• Tenderness anywhere in the abdominal area
• Straining to poop
• Whining in pain

If your dog exhibits any of these signs and you were not able to find the wrapper in his stool, you should take him to the vet pronto.

How can you help a dog who has eaten a muffin wrapper?

When your dog eats some muffins with wrappers too you should feed him a slice of bread, preferably whole grain, to help cushion the rough edges, especially if it was an aluminum one. With any luck, the pieces of foil or silicone will make it safely to the other end in 6 to 8 hours.

If nothing happens on the other end, it might be an intestinal blockage in which case you could use a mild laxative to help the dog poop and hopefully pass the wrapper pieces. The best remedy for constipation in dogs is psyllium, also sold under the name Metamucil, using the directions on the box.

You can also try adding a tablespoon of plain canned pumpkin to your pet’s regular food. Dogs seem to like pumpkin, although not as much as muffins. Make sure your dog drinks plenty of water to get things moving.

Unfortunately, such remedies might take a day or two to work and they might not be of much help if the dog has an intestinal blockage. If your dog’s condition seems to deteriorate do not wait to see the effects of the laxative and head straight to the vet.

How will a vet help a dog with an intestinal blockage

Your vet will probably do some X-rays to locate the obstruction and decide if there’s still a chance the dog might pass the foreign object. In many cases, the vet will also prescribe laxatives and wait for nature to take its course, rather than recommend surgery right away.

If the wrapper is lodged in the stomach and it is not very big, the doctor might try to remove it using nonsurgical endoscopy, that is by inserting a scope though the dog’s throat down to the stomach.

When the obstruction seems too large, the vet will have to perform surgery , opening the dog’s stomach or intestines to manually remove the obstruction. In case of intestinal blockage, the obstructing body might cut off blood supply to the area, so that part of the intestine will basically die. During the surgery, the vet will have to remove the wrapper as well as the necrotic part of the intestine.

The good news is that most dogs recover quickly after this type of surgery. Your pet will be his old self again, although nausea and lack of appetite might persist for a few more days.

How to stop your dog eating a muffin wrapper

All dogs are interested in food, but some more than others, especially pups who’d chew on anything that looks even remotely edible, or even some that don’t. To keep your dog from eating muffin wrappers, next time you bake some make sure not to leave them anywhere your dog might reach. This includes tables or countertops that might appear high enough. Dogs can get very creative when they really want a treat. Best close the doors and put some distance between your pet and those tasty muffins.

This applies to any sort of food actually. Don’t leave anything wrapped in aluminum foil within nose range. A muffin wrapper is thankfully small, but leftover roast might need a lot more foil to cover it and that could really be dangerous to your dog.

You also need to consider the food you leave unattended might be more dangerous than the wrapping. Chocolate for instance is dangerous for dogs but since he’s learned that things wrapped in foil are good he might want to try that.

When you dispose of muffin or candy wrappers, or the foil you used to cover the leftover Thanksgiving turkey make sure to throw them in a trash can with a secure lid. 

Key Takeaways

Your dog eating a muffin wrapper is not an immediate cause for alarm. In most cases, wrappers will pass through the dog’s digestive system without causing any problems.

Paper wrappers are the least dangerous, as they will be mostly dissolved by your dog’s stomach acids. Neither silicone, nor aluminum foil are toxic so you don’t have to worry about that.

Silicone or foil wrappers swallowed whole can, in some cases, cause an intestinal blockage. Watch your pet for a couple of days and if you notice any symptoms of GI issues, see a vet as soon as possible.

Photo credits

¹ Photo by Sam-Cat on Flickr

Other Similar Posts

James Grayston

My name is James and I love dogs. have owned four Golden Retrievers in the past 15 years. Currently I own two "Goldies"- a five year old and a seven month old. The photo shows me with our youngest when she was about 7 weeks old!

My Dog Ate Cupcake Wrapper (4 Tips on What to Do)

Many of us cannot resist a cupcake, whatever type it is. Aside from us, our dogs can’t as well. For this reason, it’s not surprising to find out that our dogs would eat a cupcake or two resting within their reach. While it’s alright for them to eat the muffin, it can be worrisome to see that they would include the wrapper.

So, you may say: ‘My dog ate cupcake wrapper,’ but what should you do? In many cases, those traditional muffin wrappers may pass through without causing any trouble to your pet. True, some wrappers have components that can harm them, but it’s not likely to happen. In such incidents, understanding what has happened is the best way to deal with such.

In this article, you’ll see a rundown of the things you need to do when dealing with such issues. Moreover, it will also be your guide in caring for your pet.

Without further ado, let’s get into it!

• 1.1 Observe your dog.
• 1.2 Clean the area and remove the food’s remnants.
• 1.3 Understand what happened.
• 1.4 Take your pet to your vet.
• 2 Dog ate chocolate cupcake wrapper.
• 3 Dog ate foil cupcake wrapper.
• 4 Dog ate paper cupcake wrapper.
• 5 Are cupcake wrappers digestible for dogs?
• 6 What happens if my dog eats a cupcake wrapper?
• 7 Can a dog die from eating a muffin wrapper?
• 9 Resources

Dog ate cupcake wrapper – what to do?

If your dog ate a cupcake wrapper, likely, it would only pass through without causing any issues. Thus, the first thing you’ll need to consider is to observe your pet and see any reactions towards the wrapper it recently ate.

Of course, as pet owners, we want to ensure our pet’s safety, and that we need to ensure that nothing is wrong with them.

So, you may ask: “What to do if my dog ate a cupcake wrapper?”

While the muffin itself is harmless, the wrapper may be, and that’s what we want to solve.

Here are four simple tips you can do if your dog ate a cupcake wrapper.

Observe your dog.

The first thing you need to do is observe your dog and look for any signs of pain or reaction towards the wrapper.

Some symptoms would mean danger, and if such happens, you may need to call or take your pet to the nearest vet. Among these symptoms would be heavy breathing or pale/blue-tinged gums.

If your pet seems alright and doesn’t show any signs of severe symptoms, you may proceed with the next one.

Clean the area and remove the food’s remnants.

The last thing you’ll want is for your pet to eat more wrappers. Thus, you should remove any remnants of the cupcake and the wrappers.

If your pet is diving into a trash can and continues to dig in, take it away from the site and put it somewhere secure. Afterward, clean up the mess and prevent your pet from re-accessing it.

Understand what happened.

Take note of every detail you can gather regarding the incident.

Here are a few questions that you need to answer and understand from the scene.

• How many cupcake wrappers did your dog eat?
• What kind of wrapper did your dog eat?
• How did your pet consume the wrapper? Did it chew to pieces or swallow it whole?
• How about the cupcake? Does it contain ingredients that are toxic to your pet?

Getting such information would make you understand how worse the incident is.

Moreover, it will help you report what happened if you visit the vet and ask about what happened.

Take your pet to your vet.

You’ll need to make an assessment out of all the information and see if you need to take your pet to the vet.

If you have a large dog and it ate a single wrapper, the wrapper will likely only pass through without causing any issue.

Another thing to do is to wait and observe for any signs of adverse reaction.

Take your pet to the vet if it’s a small breed or if it ate a silicone wrapper. Do the same if the muffin has toxic ingredients and your pet shows grave symptoms.

Your vet will ask you for all the necessary information. That’s the reason why you need to know everything about the incident.

You can do it through a call and ask your vet if you need to take your pet to the clinic.

You May Also Read – My Dog Ate Tampon: What Should I Do Now?

Dog ate chocolate cupcake wrapper.

If your dog ate a chocolate cupcake wrapper, then you should take it to the vet as soon as possible.

While the wrapper may pass through without causing issues, the chocolate content of the muffin may take a toll on your pet.

If it’s just a while since your dog ate the wrapper, you can induce it to vomit through a dose of hydrogen peroxide.

Of course, such first aid treatments need accurate instructions and approval from the vet.

The best response would be to call the vet and ask him what you should do about your dog.

If your pet shows signs of poisoning, you may need to take it to the vet immediately.

Dog ate foil cupcake wrapper.

Many pet owners worry about foil wrappers due to the aluminum content that can lead to poisoning.

While it may be true at some point, it’s not likely to happen with your dog if it eats a foil cupcake wrapper.

Now, it doesn’t mean your pet would be safe. The significant risk of this kind of wrapper is that it may cause lodging or choking.

If you have a small dog, it would be best to take it to the vet immediately.

Dog ate paper cupcake wrapper.

Paper muffin wrappers are likely to pass through without causing any problems. It’s usually the case since it’s easy to break down, especially if chewed.

Of course, these wrappers still have the potential to cause blockage or choking. Both the waxed paper or parchment paper can have the same effects.

You May Also Read – My Dog Ate Diapers: What Should I Do Now?

Are cupcake wrappers digestible for dogs?

Cupcake wrappers aren’t digestible for dogs. Thus, if your pet ate one, it is likely to pass through rather than getting digested.

Of course, cupcake wrappers come in many kinds. Thus, the effects may vary depending on the type of wrapper your pet ingested.

Most wrappers are papers, which won’t provide any harmful potentials to dogs of large sizes.

However, foil wrappers may tend to be a high risk for dogs.

As always, be mindful and observe your dog and see what kind of wrapper it ate. Afterward, you can respond to the situation depending on how grave it is.

What happens if my dog eats a cupcake wrapper?

It’s doubtful that the cupcake wrapper would harm your pet. As long as it’s a paper wrapper and not a foil, it may only pass through without any issue.

Of course, it will still vary in all circumstances. Thus, as a general rule of thumb, remember that your dog shouldn’t eat any wrapper.

It may induce vomiting, but it’s a good thing if your pet spits it out. However, what would usually happen is that the wrapper would pass through.

For this reason, you may want to wait out for your pet to release it.

Now, you may wonder if eating a wrapper is enough to cause your pet’s death.

Can a dog die from eating a muffin wrapper?

It’s quite rare for a dog to die just by eating a cupcake wrapper. However, it would be possible if the wrapper caused a blockage and you left it untreated.

For this reason, keep a keen observation of your pet and see the effects upon eating a wrapper.

If you see your pet not pooping for some time, it would be best to consult the vet.

Another thing that can cause death is if the wrapper was a foil. Foil wrappers would likely pass through as well.

However, it can have sharp edges that can cause bleeding on your pet’s organs.

If your pet ate a foil wrapper, it would be best to take it to the vet to receive proper treatment.

What should you do if your dog ate a chocolate cupcake , or even a Maxi Pad ?

Cupcake wrappers aren’t likely to cause any issue to your dog, in case it eats one. However, circumstances vary all the time. While it can be safe for other dogs, it can take a toll on your pet.

When it comes to muffin wrappers, the safest would be the one made of paper. If your pet ingests such, your pet won’t have any issues.

However, be cautious if your pet ate either a foil or a silicon wrapper. Moreover, it’s also dangerous if your pet ate a chocolate cupcake. Such incidents need immediate attention from the vet.

As pet owners, be cautious and observant and try your best to prevent such incidents from happening.

Image credits – Canva

[1] WebMD’s take on chocolate toxicity on dogs

[2] PubMed’s study on aluminum toxicity on dogs

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My Dog Ate a Muffin Wrapper! What to Do if Dog Ate Muffin Wrapper

Dog ate muffin wrapper and you’re not sure how to react? Don’t worry! In this article, we’ll teach you what to do if your dog ate a muffin wrapper, and the two easy but incredibly effective commands to stop it from happening again. You’ll also learn why dogs eat muffin wrappers and how to treat the root cause of this behavior.

Next, we’re going to cover if dogs can eat muffin wrappers safely, are muffin wrappers bad for dogs, and how long they take to pass. Finally, we’ll go over the signs your dog ate a muffin wrapper and the special considerations when your dog ate a muffin wrapper out of the trash or your dog ate a chocolate muffin wrapper. Keep reading!

Table of Contents

Dog Ate Muffin Wrapper

What to Do if Dog Ate Muffin Wrapper

If your dog ate a muffin wrapper, monitor them closely for any signs of gastrointestinal distress. This includes symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, or difficulty in passing stool. Small pieces may pass through their system, but there’s a risk of blockage, especially with larger or multiple wrappers.

If you notice any concerning symptoms or if the dog has ingested a substantial amount, contact your veterinarian.

Your Dog is Eating Muffin Wrappers

If your dog is eating muffin wrappers, it may be due to the scent of food remnants, curiosity, anxiety, or boredom. Some dogs are attracted to the texture or may be seeking attention. It’s important to ensure that muffin wrappers and other potentially harmful items are disposed of securely to prevent access.

Train the “Leave It” Command

Training your dog with the “Leave It” command can be beneficial in preventing them from picking up muffin wrappers:

• Start by holding a less tempting item in your hand. When your dog approaches, say “Leave it.”
• Reward them with a treat and praise as soon as they move away from the item.
• Gradually increase the challenge by using items that are more enticing, like a muffin wrapper, and continue to reward for compliance.
• Practice this command regularly in various settings for consistency.

Train the “Drop It” Command

The “Drop It” command is also useful for teaching your dog to let go of items like muffin wrappers:

• Give your dog a toy and, once they have it in their mouth, offer them a treat while saying “Drop it.”
• When they release the toy, give them the treat and praise them.
• Gradually introduce items that are more challenging, such as muffin wrappers, under supervision.
• Ensure regular practice to effectively reinforce this command.

In summary, if your dog eats a muffin wrapper, it’s important to monitor them for any signs of digestive issues. These commands should help prevent future incidents, but it’s important to remember that the underlying behavioral issues (curiosity, anxiety, boredom, etc.) that were causing all of this to begin with will still be present.

And until you address those, any positive changes you see will only be temporary.

“Well, how do I make these changes last?”

By getting your dog to truly choose to follow your direction, that’s how. I tried many times to write out how you can do that before deciding it made more sense to just link you to the free video series that explains it better than I’d ever be able to.

The series is by a man named Dan who is one of the world’s leading dog obedience trainers. In it, he teaches you how to put an end to things like your dog eating muffin wrappers and all other misbehavior using his fast and easy-to-follow methods.

In the first video , Dan will reveal to you why the two most common methods of dog training only doom you to failure. You can watch the video now by clicking here . Follow the proven system he’ll show you in his series and you’ll never have to spend another second worrying about what to do if your dog ate a muffin wrapper ever again!

My Dog Ate a Muffin Wrapper

If your dog ate a muffin wrapper, keep a close eye on them for signs of any gastrointestinal upset or blockage such as vomiting or difficulty defecating, especially if consumed in large amounts or if it’s coated with food remnants like chocolate, which can be harmful to dogs.

Dog Ate Paper Muffin Wrapper, What Do I Do?

If your dog ate a paper muffin wrapper, watch their behavior closely for signs of gastrointestinal distress. These signs can include vomiting, lack of appetite, lethargy, or difficulty in passing stool. Most dogs will pass small pieces of paper without issue, but if the wrapper was large, or if you notice any concerning symptoms, it’s important to contact your veterinarian.

Training your dog on the “leave it” and “drop it” commands will be very helpful for preventing any problems in the future. Learn both now in the first section.

It’s best to get this problem addressed right away, because doing so will also keep your dog safe during other similar situations. You then won’t need to worry about things like why dogs eat paper or what to do if your dog ate tape , if your dog ate a cupcake wrapper , or if your dog ate a paper plate .

My Dog Ate a Paper Muffin Wrapper Out of Trash

If your dog ate a paper muffin wrapper out of the trash, it’s a reminder of the importance of keeping garbage cans secured and out of reach. Dogs are often attracted to the scent of food residue on wrappers, which can lead to them rummaging through the trash.

Regularly emptying trash bins and ensuring they are securely closed can help prevent this behavior.

My Dog Ate a Chocolate Muffin Wrapper

If your dog ate a chocolate muffin wrapper, it’s a more urgent situation, as chocolate is toxic to dogs . The severity depends on the amount of chocolate residue on the wrapper and the size of your dog. If you suspect your dog has ingested chocolate, even in small amounts, contact your veterinarian immediately for advice.

Dog Ate Muffin Wrapper: How to Prevent

Preventing your dog from eating muffin wrappers involves managing their environment and access to these items. Keep all food waste, especially items like muffin wrappers that carry the scent of food, in a securely closed trash can.

Additionally, training your dog to stay away from the trash ( learn two commands in the first section ) and providing them with plenty of appropriate chew toys and mental stimulation can help redirect their focus away from undesirable objects.

In summary, if your dog eats a muffin wrapper, closely monitor them for any signs of discomfort or distress. The risks increase if the wrapper has traces of harmful substances like chocolate. Taking steps to secure trash bins and minimize your dog’s access to such items, along with appropriate training and environmental management, can help prevent these incidents.

Can Dogs Eat Muffin Wrappers?

Dogs can’t eat muffin wrappers without risking potential health problems. Muffin wrappers, particularly those made of paper or foil, are not digestible and can lead to gastrointestinal issues if ingested.

Are Muffin Wrappers Bad for Dogs?

Muffin wrappers are bad for dogs because they can cause intestinal blockages, especially if a large piece is swallowed. The material of the wrapper, be it paper or foil, is indigestible and can get stuck in the stomach or intestines. Additionally, any residual food or grease on the wrapper can lead to gastrointestinal upset.

The “drop it” command is perfect for these situations, as it gives you one last chance to get your dog to drop something they have in their mouth. Learn it now in the first section.

Signs Dog Ate Muffin Wrapper

The signs your dog ate a muffin wrapper include vomiting, diarrhea, lack of appetite, and signs of abdominal discomfort or distress. If the wrapper causes an obstruction, you may also notice changes in bowel movements, such as constipation or straining to defecate. Prompt veterinary attention is needed if any of these symptoms occur.

Can a Dog Pass a Muffin Wrapper?

Whether a dog can pass a muffin wrapper depends on the size of the dog and the amount of wrapper ingested. Small pieces may pass through the digestive system of a large dog with minimal issues. However, there is always a risk of intestinal blockage, particularly for small dogs or if large or multiple pieces are consumed.

Puppy Ate Muffin Wrapper

If your puppy ate a muffin wrapper, be particularly vigilant. Puppies are more susceptible to gastrointestinal blockages due to their smaller size. Even a small piece of wrapper can cause issues. Watch closely for any signs of gastrointestinal distress and consult your veterinarian if you have any concerns.

In summary, muffin wrappers are not safe for dogs to eat and can cause serious health issues. If your dog or puppy swallowed a muffin wrapper, watch them for any signs of distress. Immediate veterinary consultation is recommended if you observe any symptoms suggesting a gastrointestinal obstruction or irritation.

I’m sure you’re ready now that you have all of your questions about why dogs eat muffin wrappers answered, so I’ll let you get started. Best wishes, and thanks for reading our article “My Dog Ate a Muffin Wrapper! What to Do if Dog Ate Muffin Wrapper.”

KB Williams

Hey there! I'm a dog behavior expert and lover of travel. Since 2016, I've been sharing my knowledge of dog training and behavior while exploring the Pacific Northwest with my two rescues.

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My Dog Ate A Candy Wrapper [Here Is What To Do Next…]

Your dog has eaten a candy wrapper, foil or otherwise. Maybe they’ve eaten several.

You’re now naturally concerned. What do you now need to do? How dangerous is this?

Well, here is exactly how you should respond, with some thoughts and considerations along the way…

So, what should you do if your dog has eaten a candy wrapper? If your dog has eaten a candy wrapper, it is best to contact your vet right away. While your dog may be able to naturally pass it within 2-5 days, the ‘sit and wait’ approach is not advised since it could cause an cause a life-threatening bowel obstruction.

Table of Contents

What Will Happen To A Dog That Eats A Candy Wrapper?

They may manage to pass it.

Candy wrappers can be passed, though whether your dog is able to do this will ultimately depend on their size, digestive health and the type of wrapper they consumed.

Foil and cellophane wrappers are particularly difficult to digest/pass.

And of course the more/larger the wrappers, the more unlikely too.

Thankfully, when a dog eats foreign material, the body’s natural instinct is to try and expel it out through the stool.

Most candy wrappers are lightweight and pliable, so they can potentially travel through the digestive tract without causing significant issues.

However, just because it’s possible does not mean you should wait. As we shall soon see why.

It Could Cause An Obstruction

Blockages are another potential, and unfavorable outcome.

Essentially, this is where it gets caught and stuck in your dogs digestive tract.

Signs of an obstruction can include loss of appetite, vomiting, lethargy, not defecating and abdominal pain.

But as previously mentioned, it’s better not to wait for these symptoms to develop.

Can a Dog Pass a Candy Wrapper?

A dog may be able to pass a candy wrapper, but not always. The ability to pass the wrapper largely depends on the size of the wrapper, the size and health of the dog, and how the wrapper was consumed (was it crumpled, shredded, or swallowed whole?).

Generally, dogs with a robust digestive system and larger breeds have a higher chance of passing the wrapper without any complications.

Assuming a dog is able to do so, the wrapper will be deposited via the stool.

What To Do If Your Dog Has Eaten A Candy Wrapper

Try to remain calm.

It’s natural to feel a surge of panic.

However, it’s crucial to remain calm.

Panicking won’t solve the issue at hand, but maintaining a level head allows you to think clearly, assess the situation effectively, and take appropriate and swift action.

Your calm demeanor can also prevent your dog from picking up on your anxiety, ensuring they remain as relaxed as possible throughout the ordeal.

Remove Any Leftover Wrappers

Remove any remaining wrappers or candies that may be within their reach to prevent further consumption.

Equally, if you can, try to inspect their mouth to see if any remaining wrapper remains.

If you can, try to remove them without harming your dog, causing distress or risking injury to yourself.

Close Monitoring

Then, monitor your pet closely for any signs of distress or changes in behavior.

Take note of all changes, along with a record of the events – exactly what they ate, when etc.

This is going to be valuable information to relay to the vet.

Contact A Vet

It’s always best to contact a vet while in the early stages.

That way, any potential complications can be avoided, or their impact dramatically reduced.

This is especially critical if you see symptoms suggesting a blockage, or if your dog is a small breed or has a history of gastrointestinal issues.

What Your Vet May Do If Your Dog Has Eaten A Candy Wrapper

One of the first things your vet may do is take an x-ray.

This helps them locate its exact location, along with determine whether it is/could cause an obstruction in the gastrointestinal tract.

Induce Vomiting

Depending on when your dog ate the candy wrapper, your vet might decide to induce vomiting.

This procedure can help expel the wrapper from the stomach before it travels further into the intestines and potentially cause complications.

However, this approach is typically only used within a few hours of ingestion and is not always recommended.

In severe cases where the wrapper has caused an obstruction that cannot be resolved naturally or through induced vomiting, your vet may need to perform surgery.

This procedure would involve removing the wrapper directly from the digestive tract.

While this may sound alarming, be assured that vets are highly skilled professionals trained to deal with these situations and will always aim to ensure the best possible outcome for your pet.

Follow-Up Care After a Candy Wrapper Incident

Post-recovery, it’s essential to monitor your dog for any changes in their behavior or bowel movements.

Your vet might recommend a diet that will help facilitate the passing of the wrapper or soothe your dog’s digestive tract post-recovery.

Regularly hydrate your dog and provide them with gentle exercise.

This could be in the form of a gentle walk or light playtime.

Both these measures can help their digestive system get back to normal more quickly.

However, it’s equally important not to stress your dog by constantly checking on them, as they can sense your anxiety, which might increase their stress levels.

Treat them with love, patience, and compassion, as they may be feeling discomfort or anxiety themselves.

Preventing Future Incidents

To prevent future incidents of your dog eating a candy wrapper or other indigestible items, take note of the following:

• Keep candies and other food items out of your dog’s reach.
• Train your dog to understand the “leave it” command.
• Regularly clean up after eating candies or similar foods to ensure no wrappers are left lying around.
• Monitor your dog during walks and prevent them from picking up and eating unknown items off the ground.

At this point, it truly is over to you.

While you may feel like you want to go with the ‘sit it out and wait’ approach, and even while your dog may be able to successfully pass the candy wrapper, it’s not the recommended approach.

Regardless of the size of the wrapper, regardless of how large your dog is; consult a vet.

You would never forgive yourself should your dog take a turn for the worse, or have to go through intense surgery.

It really is not worth the risk.

Get professional advice, and take it from there.

Rest assured by doing so, and by doing so promptly, the outcomes will naturally be far more favorable.

Related Guides

• My Dog Ate Foil-Wrapped Chocolate [What You Now Must Do]
• Dog Ate A Chocolate Chip Cookie [You Should Now…]

I am an experienced pet owner with decades of experience owning a number of different pets, from traditional pets like dogs and cats, to the more exotic like reptiles and rodents. I currently own a Cockapoo (pictured) called Bailey. I am also the main writer and chief editor here at Pet Educate; a site dedicated to sharing evidence-based insights and guidance, based on my vast pet ownership knowledge, experience, and extensive research.

• Dog Health & Care
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Why Do Dogs Eat Paper? 8 Vet Reviewed Reasons

Image Credit: Julia Zavalishina, Shutterstock

Last Updated on April 30, 2024 by Dogster Team

VET APPROVED

REVIEWED & FACT-CHECKED BY

Dr. Ashley Darby

BVSc (Veterinarian)

The information is current and up-to-date in accordance with the latest veterinarian research.

Click to Skip Ahead

We’ve all caught our dogs chowing down on something they shouldn’t, and paper is a common target for chewing urges—something that no doubt baffles dog parents everywhere. It’s not like paper tastes good or anything, so what is it about the stuff that makes it irresistible to some dogs?

There are more potential reasons for paper eating and shredding than you might think, and different dogs do it for different reasons, so check out the possible causes in this guide to find out which one makes the most sense in your dog’s case.

The 8 Reasons Why Dogs Eat Paper

Pica causes dogs to consistently eat non-edible, non-nutritious items, examples of which include paper, rocks, wood, string, plastic, and rubber. Pica is a sign of an underlying condition or problem rather than a condition in itself, and we’ll address the potential causes of pica in the sections that follow.

The main difference between pica and regular chewing is that the dog eats the non-edible item. Naturally, pica can be dangerous because it can cause intestinal blockages, toxicity, and problems with the teeth.

Anxious, stressed dogs often engage in destructive behaviors, one of which is chewing on or eating things they shouldn’t. Separation anxiety; fear of certain people, animals, objects, or sounds; and past trauma are some of the potential causes of the anxiety that leads to this behavior, but there are others.

In addition to destructive chewing, signs of anxiety include going to the bathroom inside the house, panting, drooling, pacing, excessive vocalization, restlessness, and compulsive behaviors. If you suspect that your dog has canine anxiety, please speak to a vet to work together on an action plan for helping your dog feel more at ease.

Boredom is another common cause of paper eating and chewing. Similar to anxious dogs, bored dogs’ pent-up energy needs an outlet, and if they don’t have enough appropriate mental stimulation (play, interactive toys, chew toys, walks, etc.) and exercise, they’ll find that outlet in destructive behaviors.

If your dog is a paper muncher, consider whether they have enough daily entertainment and exercise. Incorporating a few play sessions and providing mentally stimulating toys in addition to taking them for walks can go a long way in terms of preventing destructive behavior caused by boredom. Chew toys, in particular, are great for giving your dog something to focus on other than paper, but be cautious if your dog tends to swallow their toys, and only give them under supervision.

4. Nutritional Deficiencies

Dogs lacking in minerals like zinc, iron, and fiber sometimes resort to eating non-food items because they’re trying to provide a substitute for the missing nutrients. Dogs are omnivores, and they need to consume a complete and balanced food formula in the right quantity for their weight and that’s suitable for their age range.

Nutritional deficiencies can also result from gastrointestinal disease like parasites, chronic diarrhea, and intestinal cancers. Your dog may be consuming the nutrients but not absorbing them properly. Additionally, their appetite can be impacted by diseases, so a vet check is always a must if the behavior is ongoing.

5. Natural Chewing Urges

Chewing is a natural behavior for dogs and something they need to engage in. As we touched on earlier, natural chewing behavior is not the same as pica, which involves the dog actually ingesting the object.

You can provide chew toys to allow your dog to act out their natural urges. Without these, your dog may chew on inappropriate objects instead. Opt for chew toys that are suited to how heavy a chewer your dog is, as this can vary greatly. Some dogs can chew on something for a long time and barely make a dent, whereas others will chomp through the same toy in less than half an hour! As discussed earlier, these toys should be given under supervision.

6. Teething

Just like human babies, puppies have the urge to chew on things when their teeth are coming in because this process is uncomfortable. The chewing is an attempt to massage the gums and ease discomfort, and it’s completely natural, but your puppy needs a chew toy suitable for their age to prevent them from resorting to chewing other items. You can also try offering puppy teething sticks.

7. Puppy Curiosity

In addition to trying to ease teething discomfort, puppies chew on things out of curiosity because they use their mouths and noses to explore and navigate the world. While it’s just paper to you, to your puppy, it’s something new and exciting to be shredded, tossed, and chased. You can offer an age-appropriate chew toy and other fun toys so they can explore safely.

8. Compulsive Disorder

Canine compulsive disorder causes dogs to persistently engage in certain behaviors. These include (but are not limited to) chewing on things (including humans and themselves), fly snapping, chasing things that aren’t there, chasing shadows, spinning, air licking, surface licking, pacing, and persistent barking.

This behavior could have a genetic basis, as certain compulsive behaviors have been linked to certain breeds and types of dogs. For example, Bull Terriers have been linked to compulsive spinning. If you suspect compulsive disorder, it’s essential to consult with a vet to get to the root of the behavior and come up with a management plan.

Why Do Dogs Eat Toilet Paper?

Dogs may eat toilet paper for many of the same reasons we addressed in this guide. Some dogs are enticed by the way it unrolls and simply view it as something fun to play with, shred, and toss about. In some cases, there’s an underlying issue, especially if the behavior is compulsive or occurs when your dog is anxious or stressed out.

Is Toilet Paper Dangerous for Dogs?

It can be. If your dog only ate a small amount of toilet paper, it’s unlikely to cause any complications. However, if they eat a lot, it could cause an intestinal blockage , signs of which include vomiting, abdominal pain, weight loss, bloating, not eating or reduced appetite, and constipation. If you suspect your dog has eaten a lot of toilet paper or other kinds of paper, please contact a vet at once.

Tips for Preventing Paper Eating

• If this is more than just a one-time thing, see a vet to rule out any underlying medical issues.
• Be proactive in keeping all kinds of paper out of your dog’s reach. Avoid leaving paper lying around and keep bathroom doors closed.
• Some dogs will tip over trash cans to rifle through the contents, so invest in a trash can with a lid that locks or is too hard for your dog to open. Automatically-closing trash cans are a good option.
• Train your dog to be able to “leave it” or “drop it” .
• If your dog heads for some paper, redirect them by offering something like a chew toy instead.
• Get toys you can freeze for teething puppies to help ease discomfort. Don’t leave them unsupervised with any toys, though.
• Don’t chase your dog if they have a piece of paper in their mouth because this sends the signal that you’re playing a game with them. However, if they are actually eating the paper or the paper is covered in something toxic, it’s necessary to take it off them calmly.
• Work on behavioral issues like separation anxiety and other phobias. Discuss them with a vet or professional behaviorist to come up with solutions.

Chewing on paper isn’t always a sign that something’s going on behind the scenes—it’s often just a case of a dog being playful or exploring something new. Furthermore, swallowing a little bit, though not something dogs should do, is not usually dangerous.

However, if it’s more of a persistent thing or your dog eats paper regularly or in large amounts, there is likely an underlying issue at play that needs to be treated or managed for your dog’s safety. Ingesting large amounts of paper and other non-food items can be dangerous, so don’t hesitate to see a vet about this behavior.

• VCA Hospitals
• West Chester Vet Med Center
• Pet Poison Help Line
• Woodland Animal Hospital

Featured Image Credit: Julia Zavalishina, ShutterstockOriginal post: https://www.dogster.com/lifestyle/why-do-dogs-eat-paper

Vet Approved by Ashley D

The 8 Possible Reasons Why Dogs Eat Paper

It can be. If your dog only ate a small amount of toilet paper, it’s unlikely to cause any complications. However, if they eat a lot, it could cause an intestinal blockage, signs of which include vomiting, abdominal pain, weight loss, bloating, not eating or reduced appetite, and constipation. If you suspect your dog has eaten a lot of toilet paper or other kinds of paper, please contact a vet at once.

• Train your dog to be able to “leave it” or “drop it”.

Featured Image Credit: Julia Zavalishina, Shutterstock

About the Author

Kit Copson is a freelance writer and lifelong animal lover with a strong interest in animal welfare. She has parented many furry beings over the years and is currently a proud cat mom of two—one very chilled (unless hungry) Siamese and a skittish but adorable Domestic Shorthair—and dog mom of one—an adopted Bichon Poodle cross. When not writing about or spending time with pets, Kit can be found drawing in her sketchpad, reading, or more often than not, drinking tea.

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My Dog Ate Muffin Wrapper: What Should I Do Now?

Dogs are smart animals. They have already discovered muffins are yummy. But they are not smart enough to figure out how to successfully remove the muffin wrappers.

So, what happens to it after it takes a muffin paper? Suppose the muffin paper it has taken is the regular muffin wrapper? No need to panic.

Give it the time it will pass the paper in its stool. Pay close attention so that in case you realize the dog is uncomfortable and is having trouble passing its stool, call the vet immediately. In this article, you will learn all there is on muffin wrappers and what to do in a case where your dog takes the muffin wrapper.

Table of Contents

Helping a Dog That Has Eaten a Muffin Wrapper

If your dog consumes a muffin wrapper, the first reaction is to give it a slice of bread. Within six to eight hours, the wrapper’s material will be in the stool that your dog passes. If you still don’t see pieces of the wrapper by the eighth hour, try an advanced remedy. The problem may be an intestinal blockage. Here you will need to use a mild laxative. The laxative will help your dog excrete.

Check whether you will see pieces of the wrapper in the dog’s stool. If your dog has trouble passing stool due to constipation, give it psyllium. Some agro vets sell the medication under Metamucil’s name. Follow the directions indicated on the medication’s box strictly.

Alternatively, buy plain canned pumpkin and add a tablespoon of it to the dog’s regular food. Most dogs enjoy eating pumpkin but not as much as they love muffins.

Constantly give your dog drinking water. It helps things get moving and ease the process of passing stool.

The downside of these remedies is that they demand patience to see results. They may even take days to work. If your dog has an intestinal blockage, these remedies may not be helpful. You will therefore need to visit the vet.

Different Types of Muffin Wrapper and Their Effects on Dogs

After the dog has eaten a muffin wrapper, the first thing you should do is to check what the muffin wrapper is from. Most wrappers are from the paper wrapper, but the silicone wrappers have become popular in the market as they are recyclable. Apart from those, there is an aluminum foil used in lining the muffin tray.

1. paper wrapper

If the dog ate the paper wrapper, no need to worry as it will pass the paper. In most cases, the dog would shred the paper before swallowing . After that, the paper will pass easily in its digestive system, and then it will pass in its stool.

2. silicon wrapper

If the dog eats the silicon wrapper, the next thing you need to establish is whether the dog chewed the wrapper or not. If the dog chewed the silicon wrapper before swallowing, passing the digestive system will be easy and won’t cause any harm to the dog.

Silicon products used in food production don’t contain chemicals, and hence it can’t affect the dog in any way. The only time it can be an issue is if the dog didn’t chew, as the wrapper can cause blockage to the dog’s digestive system.

3. Aluminum foil wrapper

An aluminum foil wrapper is also not poisonous. The issue it may cause is it may damage the digestive system of the dog by cutting the lining of the system. With time, the acid in the stomach will manage to digest the aluminum foil.

Also Read: Dog Ate Toilet Paper: What You Should Do?

What to Do If Your Dog Ate a Chocolate Muffin Wrapper?

First, determine how much chocolate was in the muffin wrapper. If the amount was on the higher end, meaning it was in great amounts, your dog gets exposed to toxicity.

Don’t rely on the number of empty muffin wrappers left as evidence of how much chocolate your dog ingests. Instead, look at the amount of chocolate each muffin wrapper has.

Second, determine the type of chocolate the wrapper had. This is vital since dark chocolate is more toxic compared to white chocolate or milk chocolate. If the chocolate in the muffin is sugar-free, the dog still ingested xylitol, which is also toxic.

Third, think about the size of your dog. A small dog is at greater risk of being intoxicated by small amounts of chocolate than bigger dogs. Dogs that are older and under special medication are also at risk of being poisoned by the chocolate muffin wrappers.

If your dog has taken little amounts of chocolate from the muffin wrapper, you don’t have to panic since your dog will be alright. However, if the amount is great compared to your dog’s size and condition, be sure to visit the vet as fast as possible.

Treatment for Muffin Wrapper Ingestion

• If the dog ate the paper wrapper, nothing to worry, it will pass through stool.
• If the dog has recently ingested the muffin wrapper, induce vomiting .
• You should also give the dog doses of activated charcoal. This will help move the toxins from chocolate in the wrappers out of the dog’s body. Additionally, the activated charcoal will prevent the reabsorption of toxins in the dog’s bloodstream.
• The vet may administer IV fluids. These fluids hasten the process of releasing toxins from the dog’s body.
• Ask your vet to prescribe drugs medication that will manage any symptoms that the dog has. This works best when the muffin wrappers don’t contain too much chocolate or other substances your dog is sensitive to.
• If your dog consumes a muffin wrapper that leads to extreme conditions, take it to the vet for overnight observations. Some dogs may experience seizures or heart issues, demanding the attention of a vet.

How to Ensure Your Dog Doesn’t Eat a Muffin Wrapper?

It might be hard to prevent some accidents from happening, but it is good to do our best. Dogs are eager animals, especially when they see food. To ensure it doesn’t take the muffin wrapper, ensure you keep the muffin away, maybe place them somewhere the dogs can’t reach after baking.

Tables and countertops are one of those places you shouldn’t place them as the dog will get creative and find a way to reach the muffins. Place them somewhere they can’t see.

Apart from muffins, you should also be keen on other foods like roasts, especially those placed on aluminum foil. Roast requires a big foil, and the bigger the foil, the more danger.

Apart from muffins wrapper, other foods you should keep away from the dog includes chocolate, which is dangerous to the dog.

When you dispose of muffin wrapper and aluminum foil, ensure you cover the trash can well to avoid the dog getting either or both from the trash can.

Wrapping Up

If your dog eats a muffin wrapper, don’t be alarmed. Some dogs will only need a little help to pass the wrapper together with a stool.

The wrapper will go through the digestive system without causing problems. Use the techniques in this article to help your dog after muffin wrapper ingestion.

If the muffin wrapper ingestion is on the higher end, take your dog to the vet immediately.

Meet Madison Phillips, your compassionate guide to pet well-being. With experience from VCA Animal Hospitals and Laxton Vet Clinics Bellaire Inc. Madison honed her skills and embraced the balance of medical expertise and compassion, through her articles, she simplifies pet care, whether you’re a newbie or an experienced pet parent.

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Last Updated on October 16, 2023 by

Uh Oh, My Pet Ate a Candy Wrapper! What Do I Do?

By: BeChewy Editors Updated: September 9, 2022

Home / BeWell / Safety / Uh Oh, My Pet Ate a Candy Wrapper! What Do I Do?

This spooky season, we’re all looking forward to some tricks and, most importantly, lots of treats . It’s also the time of year when your pets may try and sneak a piece (or 10!) of candy from your trick-or-treating stash. Unfortunately, if your pet ate a candy wrapper—with or without treats inside—it can wreak havoc on a cat or dog’s digestive system and can potentially lead to serious problems.

If your cat or dog ate a candy wrapper here’s what to look out for this Halloween to help you feel more prepared.

Signs Your Pet Has Eaten a Candy Wrapper

“If your pet gets into Halloween candy of any kind, start monitoring the symptoms they may show,” says Dr. Megan Conrad, BVMS, an associate veterinarian at WellHaven Pet Health in Portland, Oregon. “Generally, when pets eat candy, they don't bother to remove the wrappers.”

If your cat or dog ate candy, pet parents should note the following:

• What kind of candy their dog or cat ate
• How much they think was ingested
• If the wrapper was also eaten

If the wrapper was eaten, watch for these signs:

• Decreased appetite
• If your pet is poop or straining to poop

And when your pet does poop, take a good look at it and search for the wrapper. If the wrapper is small, it is likely that the pet will pass the wrapper as a part of the digestion process. However, depending on the size of your pet (and if the wrapper is large), eating a candy wrapper can cause a medical emergency due to a dangerous blockage.

If your pet eats a foil wrapper of a cellophane wrapper? This can cause a bowel obstruction, Conrad says, which can require surgery to correct. And while X-rays and a trip to the emergency vet may be necessary to diagnose this problem, there is also a chance that a candy wrapper can adhere to the lining of your pet’s stomach, which can be difficult to diagnose because it does not always show up on an X-ray, says Emmy-winning, Los Angeles-based veterinarian Dr. Jeff Werber.

Treating a Pet Who Has Eaten a Candy Wrapper

If you suspect that your pet has eaten a candy wrapper, it’s worth visiting your veterinarian or emergency vet center for a checkup and X-rays.

Most of the time, such episodes do not require surgery, however, sometimes the intestines may need to be lubricated to help dislodge material and allow it to be eliminated properly as part of your pet’s digestion. Sometimes fibrous foods like bread can help “carry” the wrapper through your pet’s system to elimination, but it’s important to monitor your pet throughout the entire process.

If your cat or dog ate chocolate inside of a candy wrapper with xylitol in it (or any chocolate) your veterinarian may suggest several methods to induce vomiting and will likely undergo blood testing to assess the degree of toxicity. Prior to visiting your veterinarian, your pet should be kept in a cool, quiet space and should remain as calm as possible.

Candy Pets Should Always Avoid— And What to Do If They Eat It

Candy corn, chocolate covered raisins, caramel apples, and sugar-free candy should all be out of reach for furry friends.

Not only do certain candies, like lollipops and other hard candies, pose a choking hazard, but if candies are consumed along with the wrapper, they can also present problems for your pet, including:

• Xylitol toxicity: Certain sugar-free candies and baked goods contain xylitol, a sugar substitute that lowers blood sugar and can cause vomiting, loss of coordination, seizures and even liver failure. Symptoms of xylitol toxicity can develop within 15 to 30 minutes of its ingestion.
• Chocolate toxicity: Chocolate toxicity is another issue that can be present if your pet consumes a candy wrapper that contains chocolate . This popular treat among humans is especially toxic to dogs, and if you suspect chocolate poisoning, it’s important to contact your vet or a pet poison helpline ASAP. Different kinds of chocolate have different levels of theobromine, the chemical in chocolate that is toxic to dogs. Though baking chocolate is the most toxic for pets, dark chocolate, milk chocolate and semi-sweet chocolate candy can lead to chocolate toxicity and cause symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, low blood pressure and seizures.

Preventing Your Pet From Eating Candy Wrappers

Keep foods and treats out of reach and offer your pet appropriate alternatives.

“The best thing you can do is to try to anticipate the problem and plan for it appropriately,” Werber says. “If a tasty treat is left on the counter within reach of your pets, you can bet that when your back is turned, they will try to grab it.”

Because certain quantities of items, like chocolate, can become toxic, keep all candy out of reach and be mindful of what party guests and visitors offer your pets.

“You can always find a pet-proof container to stick that candy or wrapped snacks in so they cannot sneak a couple of treats,” Conrad says.

FAQs About Pets Eating Candy Wrappers

Dr. Katie Pagán, DVM, a partner doctor at Heart + Paw in Baltimore, Maryland, provides more insight on what to do if your pet eats a candy wrapper, so you can ensure your cat or dog’s health is perfect this Halloween.

Q: What happens if a dog eats a Hershey Kisses wrapper? (Weirdly specific question, we know, but it’s a commonly asked one!)

A: “Chocolate is toxic to dogs. Depending on how much/type of chocolate, it could be a medical emergency. Contact your veterinarian or emergency vet as soon as possible.”

Q: How long does it take for a dog to pass candy wrappers?

A: “It can take upwards of 24 to 48 hours for a dog to pass a candy wrapper, if they are going to pass it.”

Q: Are candy wrappers toxic?

A: “The wrapper itself is not toxic. Chocolate and sugar-free candy are toxic to pets.”

Q: What is the best way to dispose of a candy wrapper?

A: “A tightly closed garbage can is best. Some dogs are magicians, so you need to ensure they are not able to get into the trash.”

Q: What other types of wrappers do pets commonly eat?

A: “Food wrappers are another common wrapper besides candy.”

It’s natural for pet parents to be worried when your dog or cat ingests something they aren’t supposed to eat. Halloween is an especially scary time with the potential for pets to get into your trick-or-treating candy stash quicker than you can say “Boo!”

Make sure you collect as many details as possible before contacting your vet. It’s important to know if the ingredients in the type of candy they’ve eaten match any toxic foods, like what makes sugar-free or chocolate candy so dangerous. And if you still aren’t sure if what your pet has eaten is OK for them, give an animal poison control hotline a call as a next step.

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• These 6 Halloween Pet Safety Tips Are Fright Night Necessities

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My Dog Ate A Stick Of Butter (With Wrapper)

Table of Contents:

You may also want to let your vet know what happened. Just in case butter is moderately dangerous for dogs, Overall, the actual danger stems from the details surrounding the butter, such as whether it was pure butter or margarine. Is the wrapper on or off cocoa butter? How much of the stick did he eat? Does he have any pre-existing conditions that could worsen his reaction to butter?

These details are the same ones that your vet will most likely ask, so it’s a good idea to know the answers to them if possible. The most likely thing you’re going to notice if your dog eats a stick of butter is that he is going to be very uncomfortable. Dogs are lactose intolerant, and real butter has a lot of lactose in it, so depending on what kind of dog you have as well as how much he ate, that’s a whole lot of lactose he’ll deal with. Most of the symptoms of lactose intolerance that humans experience are bloating, gassiness, indigestion, and that rumbling chatty sound our stomachs make when they can’t digest something in a few hours or a day or two they’ll also deal with diarrhea or watery poops if he’s eaten a significant amount of it he may also start vomiting this happens because his body simply can’t tolerate that much lactose which it Pancreatitis is common in obese dogs who eat a lot of fatty foods as well as senior dogs.

What does butter do to a dog?

The high fat content of butter, when consumed frequently, could contribute to obesity. And getting into too many table scraps can cause pancreatitis in dogs. As a dairy product, milk could trigger digestive upset in dogs who are lactose intolerant; it can also cause stomach upset related to general food intolerance.

Source: https://www.thefarmersdog.com/digest/can-dog-eat-butter/

A large amount of butter can also trigger pancreatitis due to the increased fatty substance in a short amount of time. This is when the enzymes in the pancreas start to mistakenly digest the organ itself, and it is a serious condition that requires a trip to the vet in no time at all. However, it can climb from acute to serious pancreatitis and even cause hemorrhage, which is when the pancreas ruptures and causes internal bleeding, so this is something that you’ll need to get addressed quickly. Vets will know when your dog is predisposed to pancreatitis, which is part of why calling a vet to give them a detailed heads-up is a good idea. Obesity will worsen just as if we as humans ate an entire stick of butter. Because butter is just fat, it can worsen a lot of the symptoms associated with obesity, such as cholesterol, cardiac problems, and others.

It’s critical to provide the vet with complete and accurate information. Was it pure butter or margarine? Cocoa butter is the reason we’ve been saying real butter or pure butter because butter isn’t always butter; sometimes it’s cocoa butter or margarine, which have a completely different makeup than butter. Cocoa butter is often used by those on diets to replace traditional butter since it’s not real butter and therefore better for humans. However, cocoa butter has theobromine in it, which is a highly toxic ingredient for dogs. It can cause tremors, seizures, and even heart attacks.

How long does it take for a dog to poop out paper?

It can take up to 24 hours for unwanted items to pass through your dog. Large amounts of toilet paper can cause intestinal blockages in dogs. Clinical signs of intestinal blockages are weight loss, bloating, abdominal pain, constipation, or an inability to eat.

Source: https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/pet-tips/my-dog-ate-toilet-paper-what-to-do-now/

Cocoa butter also contains xylitol, an artificial sweetener that’s very toxic to dogs. Margarine also has additives, including xylitol, so if he’s eaten fake butter, this is cause for concern, even though eating just normal butter isn’t always guaranteed safety. Some butter does contain xylitol too. Reading the label of the butter or margarine is very important since time will be of the essence. Was the wrapper on or off?

In a lot of cases, the wrapper on the stick of butter is more dangerous than the butter itself since it is made from some sort of foil or plastic. It can be a choking hazard to dogs as he inhales the tasty treat within it. In smaller dogs, the wrapper can cause a blockage in his intestines, which may mean that he is going to need help to pass it through his digestive tract. Likewise, your dog’s size also factors in; the smaller he is, the less it takes to cause a problem.

Does he have any pre-existing conditions that may worsen his reaction to butter? This refers to conditions such as obesity, diabetes, pancreatitis, or even allergies. The vet will be the best person to ask for this information. In most cases, your dog can’t die from eating butter unless he ate half his body weight. If he’s eaten some sort of butter alternative, however, he can possibly die from the complications of the additive ingredients. The symptoms for butter and butter alternatives are a little different since they’re ingredients.

Can a dog poop out paper?

Many dogs don’t eat the paper they play with—the joy is in the ripping up—but if pups do ingest napkins or tissues, there could be serious health consequences. “ Small amounts of paper will just pass through a dog’s digestive tract ,” says Dr.

Source: https://www.petmd.com/dog/behavior/why-do-dogs-shred-paper-products

Serious symptoms for butter alternatives include shaking and tremors, severe disorientation or loss of consciousness, and excessive distress or pain. Some serious complications can pop up from traditional butter too, especially if he’s eaten the wrapper as well. Some of the serious ones to watch for include difficulty breathing or panic, and the rapper could be choking him. serious ongoing vomiting or extreme ongoing diarrhea extreme stomach tenderness If you notice any of these symptoms, you’ll want to immediately take him to the vet so that they can assess the situation and see just where the problem is. We all want to give our dogs a lick of butter since it’s so delicious, but there really is no kind of butter that’s safe for dogs.

Lactose intolerance makes traditional butter a serious no-no, and any kind of alternative butter usually contains those dangerous additive ingredients that can kill your dog. If you want to learn how to take care of a dog after he’s eaten a stick of butter, click the link in the description below. If the information in this article was useful, please like it and don’t forget to subscribe.

Q&A – 💬

❓ why did my dog eat the butter wrapper.

If your dog ate the butter wrapper but isnt showing signs of suffocation, dont panic. Butter is full of fats and the grease probably helped the wrapper down your pups throat and into their digestive system. It might reappear in their feces or in their vomit soon enough.

❓ What should I do if my dog ate a stick of butter?

If your dog just ate a stick of butter, the first thing you should do is not panic. Butter isn’t toxic or lethal to dogs, and a stick worth usually isn’t enough to cause life-threatening damage to your dog. After that, assess the situation. Was the butter wrapped or unwrapped? What was the wrapper made of? Was it regular butter or some other type?

❓ Is butter bad for dogs to eat?

Eating a stick or small amounts of butter won’t cause significant damage or serious health issues to your pup. However, butter is a dairy product and it contains lactose.

❓ Should I use butter to give my dog medicine?

If you have a smaller pup, you should contact your veterinarian. Should I use butter to give my dog medicine or pills? Butter can be useful to help give tablets or medication, by making it taste and smell more appetizing. However, it should only be used in small quantities. For this purpose, and you should check with your veterinary clinic first.

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What Should I Do if My Dog Ate Wax Paper?

Wax paper is a common household item, so the chances of your dog getting ahold of some are good. Here’s what to do if your dog has eaten wax paper.

Some dogs eat just about anything. And if they frequent your kitchen, they might munch on wax paper. If you discover your dog eating wax paper, should you be worried? Is wax paper safe for dogs? What should you do?

Let’s look at why your dog eats wax paper and if they can digest it. We’ll also break down the dangers of consuming wax paper and list ways of preventing your dog from doing so.

Why Does My Dog Eat Wax Paper?

Dogs are curious creatures and are often willing to eat almost anything. If your dog munches on wax paper, it may be because it appears strange to them. Wax paper has a top layer of coated wax and other ingredients, which might smell like a treat. They will likely believe it is edible.

Your dog may eat wax paper because of a medical condition. Pica is a disease whereby dogs eat inedible items . Aside from wax paper, you may find your dog eating socks, pantyhose, rocks, children’s toys, towels, or underwear.

Pica in dogs is associated with mental and psychological complications. Other factors that may cause this disease include a poor diet, medications, and hormonal imbalances.

Besides eating weird things, dogs with Pica might display the following symptoms.

• Frustration
• Separation anxiety
• Attention seeking

Can Dogs Digest Wax Paper?

Dogs’ digestive tracts can’t break down paper and wax, the main components of wax paper. If your dog ingests wax paper, it will simply pass through its digestive system. The paper will soak up bodily fluids and ease itself out of the digestive tract. However, if your dog eats a lot of wax paper, they may suffer from digestive blockage.

A blockage is more prevalent in small dogs with tiny digestive tracts and stomachs. Your puppy or small dog won’t be able to digest wax paper as well as larger dogs.

What Happens if My Dog Ate Wax Paper? 

Although wax paper components aren’t toxic to dogs, ingesting them in high amounts may cause severe health complications.

Some of the complications include:

Gagging or Choking

Your dog may choke or suffocate if they swallow a large piece of wax paper. The paper gets wet from the dog’s saliva and thus easily sticks in the throat. This may cause your dog to gag and choke when trying to cough out the wax paper.

Choking can be tragic. Contact the vet immediately if your dog appears disoriented, has excessive drooling, and is pawing at its mouth, as they may be struggling to breathe. Removing the wax paper from the dog’s mouth can prevent asphyxiation or death.

Intestinal Blockage

Intestinal blockage may occur if your dog eats wax paper in a rush. Dogs will swallow large chunks of wax paper, leading to blockage.

Small dog breeds and pups are also susceptible to intestinal tract blocking when they eat wax paper. Such dogs have narrow digestive tracts, which may get blocked easily.

Signs of intestinal blockage in dogs include lethargy, diarrhea, constipation, poor appetite, and nausea. This condition can quickly escalate to a critical stage.

If the wax paper hasn’t moved down the throat into the stomach, your dog may be able to expel them by vomiting. You should monitor the vomited foreign material to confirm if it’s the same amount as the dog consumed.

What Should I Do if My Dog Eats Wax Paper?

The first step to take if your dog eats paper wax is to monitor them. Some cases are mild, and the dog will be able to pass the paper down its digestive tract smoothly. If your dog shows signs of gagging and choking, it may need professional veterinarian care.

The next step is to try to help your dog. Open the dog’s mouth and try to pull the wax papers out. This will give the dog some relief for some time. You should also identify or determine the amount of wax paper your dog consumed, to help with the diagnosis.

It’s advisable to contact the vet within thirty minutes after consumption. Aside from describing the dog’s condition to the vet, inform them of the breed, age, and size for a better diagnosis. The vet may instruct you on what to do or ask you to take the dog in for further examination.

If the vet administers induced vomiting, giving your pup plain food is advisable to ease the process. Then, monitor your dog closely for improvements. 

How To Prevent My Dog From Eating Wax Paper?

The best way to prevent a dog from eating wax paper is to store the wax paper securely. Put the paper in a high cabinet where dogs can’t reach it. If your dog eats wax paper simply because they are curious, you could keep their minds involved by preoccupying them with puzzle games and toys.

You could also install locks on bins and cabinets if your dog is cheeky. Additionally, if you live in a large household, advise other family members to avoid leaving wax papers unattended.

Also be sure to properly dispose of used wax paper such as butter wrappers in a secure trash can which the dog cannot access. Used wax paper is often even more enticing to a dog because of the smells and flavors from the food residue left on it.

Ensure your dog gets enough mental and psychological stimulation if they suffer from Pica. It’s advisable to monitor their behavior and provide them with healthy, balanced diets to reduce their urge to eat wax papers.

Frequently Asked Questions

People who ask, “What should I do if my dog ate wax paper?” may also wonder about the following questions:

How long will it take a dog to pass wax paper?

It takes a dog forty-eight to seventy-two hours to pass the wax paper. However, you shouldn’t wait for your dog to expel the paper. Contact the vet almost immediately.

If my dog ate a butter wrapper (or a stick of butter with wrapper), it is the same as eating wax paper?

Butter wrappers are commonly wax paper (though aluminum foil is also used), so the same concerns apply when a dog eats a wax butter wrapper. Also, the butter the dog ingests with it may lubricate their digestive tract and make it easier for the wrapper to glide through the digestive system.

Be aware, however, that if your dog eats a stick of butter, they are likely to have diarrhea in addition to any issues caused by the wax wrapper.

What happens if a dog eats wax?

A dog might suffer from intestinal blockage if they eat large wax blocks. However, small amounts of wax soften when ingested and pass through the dog’s system smoothly.

What happens if my dog eats plastic wrap?

Plastic wrap isn’t toxic to dogs. However, your dog may suffer from intestinal obstruction if they ingest a lot of it.

What should I do if a dog eats a candle?

Candles can easily choke your canine and depending on the size, can cause an intestinal obstruction. Contact the vet immediately if your dog eats a candle.

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What is edible wrapping paper for dogs and why is it important.

Whether it is Christmas, holidays, or your fur baby’s birthday, beautifully wrapped gifts are a big attraction for pets. The neatly wrapped gifts lure your canine companion into swatting and chewing the ribbons and the wrapping paper. 

Perhaps, you do not know that the traditional glitzy wrapping papers contain metals. As a pet parent, your dog’s safety should be your primary concern.

You can protect your fur baby from potential harm with edible wrapping papers. Haven’t heard of it before? Read along to find out about the pet-friendly edible wrapping papers.

What Is Edible Wrapping Paper for Dogs - Say No to Conventional Wrapping Paper

Well, these wrapping papers usually get chlorine and bleach treatment. In addition, some heavy metals are used in treating the conventional wrapping papers, including zinc, lead, copper, chromium, manganese, lead, iron, and nickel.

Eating a small piece of traditional wrapping paper may not affect your furry friend’s health. However, can you imagine the horror if he ingests an entire piece? Your pet’s body will treat it as a foreign object, and the wrapping paper may lead your dog to intestinal obstruction.

Many pet parents use these harmful papers for wrapping their pet’s gifts without realizing the consequences. You cannot stop your doggie from ripping or chewing the wrapping paper from the gifts. However, you can avoid an emergency visit to a vet with edible wrapping papers.

What is Edible Wrapping Paper for dogs Anyway?

However, edible wrapping papers are a form of compressed food. Most of the edible wrapping papers for dogs are made of natural potato starch and edible natural inks. It’s important to ensure that the edible wrapping paper has AAFCO-approved flavors.

The Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) is the association that regulates the pet consumables. AAFCO with the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also set compliance standards for the disclosure and labeling of many pet products.

What Stuff Is Used In Edible Wrapping Papers?

The safety of his or her pets is what every pet parent wants. The good news is that most edible manufacturers use edible wafer paper for wrapping papers. Wafer paper is the same stuff that is used for printing cartoon characters, such as Disney princesses, on cakes.

A wafer paper is essentially made of potato starch. In case you don’t know, potato starch is one of the major ingredients found in all grain-free dog feeds. It’s better to buy an edible paper made of wheat and gluten-free potato starch.

Besides potato starch, edible wrapping papers also contain edible inks (approved by the US Food and Drug Administration) and natural flavors. Some manufacturers even mix the flavorings with soybean and flaxseed oil products –particularly formulated for healthy pet coats. The additional layer of omega numbers and vitamin letters serve as the cherry on the top for your dogs.

Is Edible Wrapping Paper Safe for Your Dog?

Most of the stuff used in edible wrapping papers is AAFCO compliant and approved by the FDA. As mentioned above, the main ingredient in the edible wrapping papers for a dog is potato starch. Not to mention, potato starch is the basic ingredient in the majority of the pet products you may find in a pet store.

However, it is important to know that edible wrapping paper is neither a pet food nor a daily treat. Therefore, you cannot use edible wrapping papers as a source of nutrition for your canine companion.

Fun Fact: Edible inks are not only safe for your furry baby, but also for humans. So, putting a small piece of edible wrapping paper in your mouth may feel like licking a milk bone.

Allergy Alert

Many pets develop allergies to certain starches and grains. Perhaps, for this reason, the pet industry is moving away from grain-based foods and using potatoes as an alternative carbohydrate source.

If your pet enjoys pet feeds containing potatoes, and does not show any sign of sensitivity, then edible wrapping papers are safe.

However, if your fur baby follows a strict diet, it is better to consult your vet before offering a treat wrapped in an edible wrapping paper.

How to Wrap a Gift in Edible Wrapping Paper

Edible wrapping papers for dogs have almost the same consistency as the regular wrapping paper. However, edible wrapping paper is a little oily and more textured. When it comes to wrapping a gift or treat, edible wrapping papers are as easy as you may like.

All you have to do is crease and fold the edible wrapping paper just as you do a conventional gift-wrap. In case you don’t know, edible wrapping papers are water-soluble. Therefore, you may either lick the paper or wet your finger and rub on the edges for sticking.

You don’t even need a tape for edible wrapping papers. Just wet the edge and seal the paper. The FDA-approved flavoring is sure to entice your dog to open his gift without getting into any trouble.

The novelty of some edible wrapping papers for dogs is their biodegradability. However, it is important to know that edible wrapping papers are not suitable for wrapping boxed items. Also, don’t wrap other presents that your canine friend may not be able to bite directly.

Final Words

So, the next time you plan to surprise your canine friend with a present, make sure to wrap it in edible wrapping papers. These pet-friendly wrapping papers do not have toxic chemicals; therefore, they are safe to use and eliminate choking or intestinal obstruction hazards.

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5 Reasons Why Your Dog Loves To Tear Through Paper

Calling all pups who love paper.

• Alexandra Blogier

Written on May 25, 2024

Dogs are playful creatures, which is one of the many reasons why they steal our hearts, along with our socks, shoes, and sometimes, even the items in our trash bins.

If you’ve ever wondered why your hallway looks like a graveyard for ripped tissues, it turns out that our canine besties are hardwired to shred.

Here are 5 reasons your dog loves to tear through paper:

1. it mimics behavior in the wild.

The act of holding down tissues or a roll of toilet paper taps into a dog’s killer instincts. Holding down the paper and shredding it is similar to a dog holding down its prey and taking it apart as a meal.

@mypetfriendlystay Dominic loves to help us open presents and even cards in envelopes. He pulls apart the paper and then waits for more. *always watch your dog if they are shredding paper* #dogfacts #classymotherpupper ♬ Texting on the Phone - White Noise Collectors

RELATED: Dog Trainer Shares 5 Things That Will Not Cure Your Pup's Separation Anxiety

A dog in the wild would hunt and eat other smaller animals, tearing meat from the bones. This might seem gruesome, but it’s all part of Mother Nature — Everyone needs to eat.

Since dogs have been domesticated, it’s more likely that they eat delicious kibble for their meals, or if you're my dog, homemade chicken and rice because you refuse to eat kibble.

Yet their DNA still dictates a lot of their behavior, which is why they dig through the trash for tissues and toilet paper rolls to rip apart.

2. Dogs shred paper because it smells good

Another reason dogs tear apart tissues, toilet paper, and napkins is that those products hold a scent (and a taste) after being used.

A dog’s sense of smell is their biggest advantage. Your dog has over 100 million sensory receptor sites in their nasal cavity, compared to the 6 million that humans have. This means they can smell 1,000 to 10,000 times better than we can.

When our dogs pick apart our discarded tissues, it’s often because they like the way they smell.

3. Dogs shred paper to self-soothe

According to the American Kennel Club , another reason that dogs tear paper is anxiety.

When a dog is feeling nervous , they often act out, which might mean they get into things they shouldn’t. Destructive chewing doesn't mean your dog is bad; it just means there’s some underlying emotional factor at play.

@minigoldenquincy Loves to shred paper! 🤪 #papershredder #dog #dogsoftiktok #whydidyoudothat ♬ original sound - Christinamarie James

Giving your dog appropriate chew toys, like rawhides, can curb this instinct. Teaching them the command for “Leave it” is another way to get your dog to drop whatever is in their mouth that you don’t want them to have.

RELATED: 5 Things You're Doing That Hurt Your Dog's Feelings Without Realizing It

4. They're bored

Dogs aren’t that different from us. They might have four paws and fur coats, but they also experience a full range of emotions, including depression , anxiety, and boredom.

If your dog isn’t getting enough mental or physical stimulation, they might turn to the trash bin to see what they can chew.

@goldiesmomager Doodles have the cutest little quirks #goldendoodle #dogsoftiktok ♬ original sound - Goldie the Mini Goldendoodle

Make sure your pup is getting their needs met by walking them, socializing them with other doggy friends, and giving them so many snuggles.

5. It's fun

Another reason that dogs rip paper is simple: It’s fun for them.

They like the texture of the paper, and tearing it apart makes a cool sound and offers them a sensory experience.

@katedavidsun Enjoy some archie shreds ♬ original sound - Kate Davidson

For the most part, paper shredding is a harmless way for a dog to enjoy themselves, yet in some cases, it can prove dangerous.

When animals eat objects they aren’t supposed to eat, it can be a sign that they have pica , which is a medical condition that makes them crave non-edible items, often because of anemia or a zinc deficiency.

Ingesting a little bit of paper isn’t a big deal, as it will move through their digestive tract fairly easily. But if your dog eats excessive amounts of paper, that could present a bigger problem.

If a dog eats a lot of paper, it could get stuck in their digestive tract and create a blockage, which requires surgery to fix.

There are practical ways to stop your dog from eating paper products, like getting trash cans with lids on them and making sure the floor of your house is clean.

To direct your dog’s attention away from chewing, make sure they get lots of play, lots of love , and lots of toys to sink their teeth into. 

RELATED: The 12 Plants That Dog Owners Should Never Have In Their Home Or Garden

Alexandra Blogier is a writer on YourTango's news and entertainment team. She covers social issues, pop culture and all things to do with the entertainment industry.

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Pavlov’s Dogs Experiment and Pavlovian Conditioning Response

Saul Mcleod, PhD

Editor-in-Chief for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MRes, PhD, University of Manchester

Saul Mcleod, PhD., is a qualified psychology teacher with over 18 years of experience in further and higher education. He has been published in peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Clinical Psychology.

Learn about our Editorial Process

Olivia Guy-Evans, MSc

Associate Editor for Simply Psychology

BSc (Hons) Psychology, MSc Psychology of Education

Olivia Guy-Evans is a writer and associate editor for Simply Psychology. She has previously worked in healthcare and educational sectors.

On This Page:

Like many great scientific advances, Pavlovian conditioning (aka classical conditioning) was discovered accidentally. Ivan Petrovich Pavlov (1849–1936) was a physiologist, not a psychologist.

During the 1890s, Pavlov researched salivation in dogs in response to being fed. He inserted a small test tube into the cheek of each dog to measure saliva when the dogs were fed (with a powder made from meat).

Pavlov predicted the dogs would salivate in response to the food in front of them, but he noticed that his dogs would begin to salivate whenever they heard the footsteps of his assistant, who was bringing them the food.

When Pavlov discovered that any object or event that the dogs learned to associate with food (such as the lab assistant) would trigger the same response, he realized that he had made an important scientific discovery.

Accordingly, he devoted the rest of his career to studying this type of learning.

Pavlovian Conditioning: Theory of Learning

Pavlov’s theory of learning, known as classical conditioning, or Pavlovian conditioning, posits that behaviors can be learned through the association between different stimuli.

Classical conditioning (later developed by Watson, in 1913) involves learning to associate an unconditioned stimulus that already brings about a particular response (i.e., a reflex) with a new (conditioned) stimulus, so that the new stimulus brings about the same response.

Pavlov developed some rather unfriendly technical terms to describe this process:

• Neutral Stimulus (NS) : A stimulus that initially does not elicit a particular response or reflex action. In other words, before any conditioning takes place, the neutral stimulus has no effect on the behavior or physiological response of interest. For example, in Pavlov’s experiment, the sound of a metronome was a neutral stimulus initially, as it did not cause the dogs to salivate.
• Unconditioned Stimulus (UCS): This is a stimulus that naturally and automatically triggers a response without any learning needed. In Pavlov’s experiment, the food was the unconditioned stimulus as it automatically induced salivation in the dogs.
• Conditioned Stimulus (CS): This is a previously neutral stimulus that, after being repeatedly associated with an unconditioned stimulus, comes to trigger a conditioned response. For instance, in Pavlov’s experiment, the metronome became a conditioned stimulus when the dogs learned to associate it with food.
• Conditioned Response (CR): This is a learned response to the conditioned stimulus. It typically resembles the unconditioned response but is triggered by the conditioned stimulus instead of the unconditioned stimulus. In Pavlov’s experiment, salivating in response to the metronome was the conditioned response.
• Unconditioned Response (UR): This is an automatic, innate reaction to an unconditioned stimulus. It does not require any learning. In Pavlov’s experiment, the dogs’ automatic salivation in response to the food is an example of an unconditioned response.

Pavlov’s Dog Experiment

Pavlov (1902) started from the idea that there are some things that a dog does not need to learn. For example, dogs don’t learn to salivate whenever they see food. This reflex is ‘hard-wired’ into the dog.

Pavlov showed that dogs could be conditioned to salivate at the sound of a bell if that sound was repeatedly presented at the same time that they were given food.

Pavlov’s studies of classical conditioning have become famous since his early work between 1890 and 1930. Classical conditioning is “classical” in that it is the first systematic study of the basic laws of learning (also known as conditioning).

Pavlov’s dogs were individually situated in secluded environments, secured within harnesses. A food bowl was positioned before them, and a device was employed to gauge the frequency of their salivary gland secretions.

The data from these measurements were systematically recorded onto a rotating drum, allowing Pavlov to meticulously monitor the rates of salivation throughout the course of the experiments.

First, the dogs were presented with the food, and they salivated. The food was the unconditioned stimulus and salivation was an unconditioned (innate) response. (i.e., a stimulus-response connection that required no learning).

Unconditioned Stimulus (Food) > Unconditioned Response (Salivate)

In his experiment, Pavlov used a metronome as his neutral stimulus. By itself, the metronome did not elicit a response from the dogs. 

Neutral Stimulus (Metronome) > No Response

Next, Pavlov began the conditioning procedure, whereby the clicking metronome was introduced just before he gave food to his dogs. After a number of repeats (trials) of this procedure, he presented the metronome on its own.

As you might expect, the sound of the clicking metronome on its own now caused an increase in salivation.

Conditioned Stimulus (Metronome) > Conditioned Response (Salivate)

So, the dog had learned an association between the metronome and the food, and a new behavior had been learned.

Because this response was learned (or conditioned), it is called a conditioned response (and also known as a Pavlovian response). The neutral stimulus has become a conditioned stimulus.

Temporal contiguity

Pavlov found that for associations to be made, the two stimuli had to be presented close together in time (such as a bell).

He called this the law of temporal contiguity. If the time between the conditioned stimulus (bell) and the unconditioned stimulus (food) is too great, then learning will not occur.

‘Unconditioning’ through experimental extinction

In extinction, the conditioned stimulus (the bell) is repeatedly presented without the unconditioned stimulus (the food).

Over time, the dog stops associating the sound of the bell with the food, and the conditioned response (salivation) weakens and eventually disappears.

In other words, the conditioned response is “unconditioned” or “extinguished.”

Spontaneous recovery

Pavlov noted the occurrence of “spontaneous recovery,” where the conditioned response can briefly reappear when the conditioned stimulus is presented after a rest period, even though the response has been extinguished.

This discovery added to the understanding of conditioning and extinction, indicating that these learned associations, while they can fade, are not completely forgotten.

Generalization

The principle of generalization suggests that after a subject has been conditioned to respond in a certain way to a specific stimulus, the subject will also respond in a similar manner to stimuli that are similar to the original one.

In Pavlov’s famous experiments with dogs, he found that after conditioning dogs to salivate at the sound of a bell (which was paired with food), the dogs would also salivate in response to similar sounds, like a buzzer.

This demonstrated the principle of generalization in classical conditioning.

However, the response tends to be more pronounced when the new stimulus closely resembles the original one used in conditioning.

This relationship between the similarity of the stimulus and the strength of the response is known as the generalization gradient.

This principle has been exemplified in research, including a study conducted by Meulders and colleagues in 2013.

Impact of Pavlov’s Research

Ivan Pavlov’s key contribution to psychology was the discovery of classical conditioning, demonstrating how learned associations between stimuli can influence behavior.

His work laid the foundation for behaviorism, influenced therapeutic techniques, and informed our understanding of learning and memory processes.

Behaviorism: Pavlov’s work laid the foundation for behaviorism , a major school of thought in psychology. The principles of classical conditioning have been used to explain a wide range of behaviors, from phobias to food aversions.

Therapy Techniques: Techniques based on classical conditioning, such as systematic desensitization and exposure therapy , have been developed to treat a variety of psychological disorders, including phobias and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

In these therapies, a conditioned response (such as fear) can be gradually “unlearned” by changing the association between a specific stimulus and its response.

• Little Albert Experiment : The Little Albert experiment, conducted by John B. Watson in 1920, demonstrated that emotional responses could be classically conditioned in humans. A young child, “Little Albert,” was conditioned to fear a white rat, which generalized to similar objects. 

Educational Strategies: Educational strategies, like repetitive learning and rote memorization, can be seen as applications of the principles of classical conditioning. The repeated association between stimulus and response can help to reinforce learning.

Marketing and Advertising: Principles from Pavlov’s conditioning experiments are often used in advertising to build brand recognition and positive associations.

For instance, a brand may pair its product with appealing stimuli (like enjoyable music or attractive visuals) to create a positive emotional response in consumers, who then associate the product with it.

Critical Evaluation

Pavlovian conditioning is traditionally described as learning an association between a neutral conditioned stimulus (CS) and an unconditioned stimulus (US), such that the CS comes to elicit a conditioned response (CR). This fits many lab studies but misses the adaptive function of conditioning (Domjan, 2005).

From a functional perspective, conditioning likely evolves to help organisms effectively interact with biologically important unconditioned stimuli (US) in their natural environment.

For conditioning to happen naturally, the conditioned stimulus (CS) can’t be arbitrary, but must have a real ecological relationship to the US as a precursor or feature of the US object.

Pavlovian conditioning prepares organisms for important biological events by conditioning compensatory responses that improve the organism’s ability to cope.

The critical behavior change from conditioning may not be conditioned responses (CRs), but rather conditioned modifications of unconditioned responses (URs) to the US that improve the organism’s interactions with it.

Evidence shows conditioning occurs readily with naturalistic CSs, like tastes before illness, infant cues before nursing, prey sights before attack. This conditioning is more robust and resistant to effects like blocking.

Traditional descriptions of Pavlovian conditioning as simply the acquired ability of one stimulus to evoke the original response to another stimulus paired with it are inadequate and misleading (Rescorla, 1988).

New research shows conditioning is actually about learning relationships between events, which allows organisms to build mental representations of their environment.

Just pairing stimuli together doesn’t necessarily cause conditioning. It depends on whether one stimulus gives information about the other.

Conditioning rapidly encodes relations among a broad range of stimuli, not just between a neutral stimulus and one eliciting a response. The learned associations allow complex representations of the world.

Recently, Honey et al. (2020, 2022) presented simulations using an alternative model called HeiDI that accounts for Rescorla’s findings. HeiDI differs by allowing reciprocal CS-US and US-CS associations. It uses consistent learning rules applied to all stimulus pairs.

The simulations suggest HeiDI explains Rescorla’s results via two mechanisms:

• Changes in US-CS associations during compound conditioning, allowing greater change in some US-CS links
• Indirect influences of CS-CS associations enabling compounds to recruit associative strength from absent stimuli

HeiDI integrates various conditioning phenomena and retains key Rescorla-Wagner insights about surprise driving learning. However, it moves beyond the limitations of Rescorla-Wagner by providing a framework to address how learning translates into performance.

HeiDI refers to the authors of the model (Honey, Dwyer, Iliescu) as well as highlighting a key feature of the model – the bidirectional or reciprocal associations it proposes between conditioned stimuli and unconditioned stimuli.

H – Honey (the lead author’s surname), ei – Bidirectional (referring to the reciprocal associations), D – Dwyer (the second author’s surname), I – Iliescu (the third author’s surname).

• Domjan, M. (2005). Pavlovian conditioning: A functional perspective.  Annu. Rev. Psychol. ,  56 , 179-206.
• Honey, R.C., Dwyer, D.M., & Iliescu, A.F. (2020a). HeiDI: A model for Pavlovian learning and performance with reciprocal associations. Psychological Review, 127, 829-852.
• Honey, R. C., Dwyer, D. M., & Iliescu, A. F. (2022). Associative change in Pavlovian conditioning: A reappraisal .  Journal of Experimental Psychology: Animal Learning and Cognition .
• Meulders A, Vandebroek, N. Vervliet, B. and Vlaeyen, J.W.S. (2013). Generalization Gradients in Cued and Contextual Pain-Related Fear: An Experimental Study in Health Participants .  Frontiers in Human Neuroscience ,  7 (345). 1-12.
• Pavlov, I. P. (1897/1902). The work of the digestive glands. London: Griffin.
• Pavlov, I. P. (1928). Lectures on conditioned reflexes . (Translated by W.H. Gantt) London: Allen and Unwin.
• Pavlov, I. P. (1927). Conditioned Reflexes: An Investigation of the Physiological Activity of the Cerebral Cortex . Translated and edited by Anrep, GV (Oxford University Press, London, 1927).
• Rescorla, R. A. (1988). Pavlovian conditioning: It’s not what you think it is .  American Psychologist ,  43 (3), 151.
• Pavlov, I. P. (1955). Selected works . Moscow: Foreign Languages Publishing House.
• Watson, J.B. (1913). Psychology as the behaviorist Views It. Psychological Review, 20 , 158-177.
• Watson, J. B., & Rayner, R. (1920). Conditioned emotional reactions.  Journal of experimental psychology ,  3 (1), 1.

Further Reading

• Logan, C. A. (2002). When scientific knowledge becomes scientific discovery: The disappearance of classical conditioning before Pavlov. Journal of the History of the Behavioral Sciences, 38 (4), 393-403.
• Learning and Behavior PowerPoint

What was the main point of Ivan Pavlov’s experiment with dogs?

The main point of Ivan Pavlov’s experiment with dogs was to study and demonstrate the concept of classical conditioning.

Pavlov showed that dogs could be conditioned to associate a neutral stimulus (such as a bell) with a reflexive response (such as salivation) by repeatedly pairing the two stimuli together.

This experiment highlighted the learning process through the association of stimuli and laid the foundation for understanding how behaviors can be modified through conditioning.

What is Pavlovian response?

The Pavlovian response, also known as a conditioned response, refers to a learned, automatic, and involuntary response elicited by a previously neutral stimulus through classical conditioning. It is a key concept in Pavlov’s experiments, where dogs learned to salivate in response to a bell.

When did Pavlov discover classical conditioning?

Ivan Pavlov discovered classical conditioning during his dog experiments in the late 1890s and early 1900s. His seminal work on classical conditioning, often called Pavlovian conditioning, laid the foundation for our understanding of associative learning and its role in behavior modification.

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