Maple Syrup
11 foods contain this ingredient
This is an alphabetical list, not a ranking. Add KL+ to rank foods for your pet in the Food Finder.
About Maple Syrup
Maple syrup is a natural liquid sweetener boiled down from maple tree sap, added to some dog treats to make them taste better, since dogs find the sweetness appealing.
Maple syrup is used mainly as a sweetener and palatability enhancer in pet treats, providing readily digestible carbohydrates and trace minerals (e.g., manganese) but very little protein or essential nutrients. Because of its high sugar content it is calorie-dense and can contribute to obesity, dental disease or exacerbate diabetes and pancreatitis risks, so it should be used sparingly and avoided in diabetic or calorie-restricted pets.
Related ingredients
- Derived from
- boiled sap of maple trees (Acer species)
- Primary role
- sweetener and flavor enhancer
Why it's used
Manufacturers add small amounts of maple syrup to treats and baked pet snacks mainly for palatability, since dogs generally find the sweetness appealing. It also acts as a natural binder in some soft-baked or dehydrated treat recipes.
Common concerns
- Sugar content The ASPCA notes that treats should make up no more than about 10% of a dog's daily calories, and maple syrup's high sugar load can contribute to excess calorie intake if given often.
- Xylitol in flavored or sugar-free versions The FDA and ASPCA warn that some 'sugar-free' syrups and pancake syrups substitute xylitol, which causes a rapid, dangerous drop in blood sugar in dogs even in small amounts; pure maple syrup itself does not contain xylitol.
- Digestive upset Veterinary sources note that sugary treats can cause stomach upset or diarrhea in dogs if given in more than small amounts.
Also relevant
Owners of diabetic pets or pets managing weight should check with a veterinarian before offering treats containing added sugars like maple syrup.
Common Questions
What category is Maple Syrup?
Maple Syrup is categorized as a sweetener ingredient in the KibbleLab database.
Is Maple Syrup part of an allergen group?
No allergen group is linked to Maple Syrup in the KibbleLab database.
Which foods contain Maple Syrup?
11 foods in the KibbleLab database contain Maple Syrup, including Bark Bistro, BIXBI, I and Love and You.
Foods with Maple Syrup
Alphabetical by brand. Scores run 0 to 10, higher is better, on published veterinary science.
Find the right food for your pet
Sign in free to sort and filter by score, and avoid or require Maple Syrup in the Food Finder. Add KL+ to see these foods ranked for your pet's breed, age, and health focus.
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