As pet parents, we like sharing life’s small joys with our dogs—from dog-friendly destinations to something more simple, like a pup cup. But what is a pup cup, and more importantly, is it good for dogs? This guide answers the most frequently asked questions about pup cups aka “puppucccinos” —we’ll also talk about a few famous pup cups that are loved across the country!
What is a Pup Cup (or Puppuccino)?
The pup cup or “puppuccino” was conceptualized from the collective desire of pet parents to include and spoil their dogs. This dog treat is prepared using whipped cream (or a similar ingredient) and sometimes light flavoring, typically served in a small paper cup.
Though it is unclear which establishment was the first to make a pup cup, many credit this to Starbucks, where the Puppuccino Pup Cup gained popularity and remains a sought-after part of their secret (or not-so-secret) menu.
Through the years, the pup cup treat evolved and various establishments tried offering their own versions. Pup cup recipes can differ—but most of them have whipped cream or ice cream as the main ingredient. Establishments may add flavoring and/or a dog biscuit on top.
Are Pup Cups or Puppuccinos Bad for Dogs?
So, are pup cups bad for dogs? Pup cups are generally safe IF given in moderation. In addition, pet parents may need to consider their pet’s individual health needs; for example, dogs with diabetes or dietary intolerances may NOT process pup cups as safely as dogs that don’t have these conditions. In such cases, it would be best to seek veterinary guidance.
In addition, for any dog, too many pup cups can lead to unhealthy weight gain and digestive issues. Pet parents must moderate their dogs’ pup cup consumption—and, when in doubt, ask a trusted vet!
Famous Pup Cups in the United States
Here are some of the most well-known pup cups in the country. Please note that at any point, pup cup offerings may be discontinued and ingredients might change without notice.
1. Pup Cup at Starbucks
The Starbucks Pup Cup or “Puppuccino”, is the one that—many say—started it all. Even though Puppuccino sounds like “cappuccino”, this pup cup does NOT include any coffee or caffeine—as these are NOT safe for dogs. Instead, the Puppuccino features lightly-flavored whipped cream, served in a small Starbucks paper cup. As with most pup cups, it is safe in moderation for most dogs.
Though iconic, the Puppuccino is not on the regular menu; it’s tucked away in the Secret Menu, waiting to be ordered—and in most locations, it’s FREE of charge.
2. Dairy Queen Pup Cup
Available in some locations, Dairy Queen’s pup cup is made with soft serve and sometimes topped with a dog biscuit. Because this pup cup contains ice cream (and not whipped cream), it has relatively more sugar—something to watch out for if your dog has a sensitive stomach or diabetes.
For many dogs, however, Dairy Queen’s pup cup is a welcome treat, available either for free or for a minimal fee, depending on the location.
3. Chick-Fil-A Pup Cup
The availability of the Chick-Fil-A pup cup depends on the location. According to pet parents who have tried it, the main ingredient is whipped cream—while other sources say it’s ice cream—topped with a dog treat.
Like most of the pup cups on this list, the Chick-Fil-A pup cup is part of the secret menu, when available. Some locations charge a minimal fee for this pup cup.
4. Dutch Bros Pup Cup
Dutch Bros Coffee offers a pup cup that a handful of pet parents online have complimented in the past year. Though no official source talks about the pup cup’s main ingredient, it has been offered as a freebie in one of their dog-friendly events, Dutch Run™, along with a stylish branded dog bandana.
5. Dunkin Donuts Pup Cup
One of the most iconic coffee and donuts brands, Dunkin Donuts, offers pup cups in some select locations. Like many others on this list, this depends on the owner of the franchise whether to include this dog treat in the secret menu or not.
Though there are no official sources talking about the recipe of Dunkin’s pup cups, a handful of pet parents have praised it online—and some have given clues that it is a whipped-cream-based pup cup.
6. Sploot Vets Pup Cup
Though Sploot’s pup cups are far from national acclaim, they are a hit in Denver and Chicago, where we bring the community together with dog-friendly events. Whether we are participating as a sponsor or hosting our own pet-friendly event, we always bring freebies and goodies for pets and pet parents. At times, the ‘Barktender’ is in to serve up delicious Sploot pup cups that canines absolutely love.
We try to create a variety of pup cups to match the event’s theme—with the latest crowd-pleaser being the “Sploot Beer”, which is whipped cream mixed with other delicious dog-friendly ingredients, creating a beer-like appearance (WITHOUT any beer, which is NOT safe for dogs).
We’ve got more exciting pup cups coming up as we set up year-round pet-friendly events!
Final Thoughts: More Pup Cups & Treats
This wraps up our article on what’s in a pup cup or ‘puppuccino’. Check out more pup cups, treats, and dog-friendly spaces from these restaurants:
- The 8 Best Dog Friendly Restaurants Near Denver, CO
- Top 11 Dog Friendly Restaurants in Chicago, IL
- 7 Dog-Friendly Restaurants in Colorado Springs
As a final reminder, make sure to moderate your dog’s pup cups and treats. Sploot’s vets advise pet parents to make sure that treats are no more than 10% of a dog’s nutritional intake for the day. Additional consideration may be necessary for dogs that have sensitive stomachs, diabetes, and dietary intolerances.
For personalized guidance on your dog’s health and nutrition, book an appointment at Sploot!
Sploot Vets: Your Go-To Vet for All-in-One Care
Sploot Veterinary Care is a trusted veterinary care provider, with vet clinics in Chicago and Denver. We provide convenient, all-in-one vet care, encompassing primary care, urgent care, and emergency vet services. With our experienced staff and state-of-the-art facilities, we address more than 95% of your pet’s healthcare needs, under one roof!
Experience next-level, Fear Free vet care in one of our serene, modern clinics. We also offer complimentary treats to make your fur baby feel right at home!
Book an appointment online or through the Sploot Vets app. Till next time, we’re with you every pounce of the way!
