Can Dog Eat Popcorn? When we imagine popcorn we will always imagine ourselves sitting with it. Its curvy texture and smell will create temptation in us. Our tongues will urge us to eat popcorn. I hope it is not only for humans but also for dogs. Our dogs also experience the same temptation and urge to eat it. We may also feed popcorn to dogs when we watch interesting movies. But, can dogs eat popcorn? Many of us will have this doubt: let’s get clear in this article. In this article, I will clearly explain the complete guide for feeding popcorn to dogs.
Guide for Feeding Popcorn to Dogs
As I said many people have doubts about feeding popcorn to dogs such as the amount and the side effects. Here we can dog eat popcorn, can see how healthy popcorn is for dogs, the risk of eating popcorn in dogs, and the safe ways to feed it.
Is popcorn a healthy food?
If you ask, can dog eat popcorn? The answer is both yes and no. Yes, Dogs can eat plain and air-popped popcorn. But we can also say no because popcorn is unsafe for dogs as it may cause some infections. Let’s see whether popcorn is a healthy food for dogs and the risks involved in eating popcorn.
Popcorn is usually rich in protein and fiber. Popcorn also contains polyphenols. This has the nature to decrease cancer-creating cells. Beyond this, there are no other traces of multivitamins in popcorn that are good for dogs, not only for dogs but also for humans. In dogs, popcorn is not such a good supplement food for dogs compared to other nutritious foods that are given in daily diet. So eating popcorn often won’t be a good choice for dogs.
Risk of Eating Popcorn
Moreover, plain, air-popped popcorns are only safe for dogs. Popcorn with toppings like salted and butter won’t fit dogs as they may cause indigestion problems. Let us see the risks caused by popcorn in dogs one by one:
- Corn kernels
One should make sure that kernels are removed from the popcorn before feeding it to dogs. Because corn kernels are allergic to dogs, particularly to puppies. The unpopped or partially popped popcorn may get stuck in the throat of dogs causing discomfort in breathing. Sometimes it may lead to a medical emergency. While taking popcorn there is a risk of getting clogged in teeth. This may also lead to discomfort until the piece is removed.
- Toppings
However popcorn is not recommended for dogs, they can take plain, air-popped popcorn occasionally. That too in small quantities. Dogs should not take toppings like salt and butter. These toppings may get into the stomach and cause gastro upset, gastric problems, vomiting, and diarrhea. While taking salt toppings with popcorn, there is a risk of a sodium increase in the blood. This may cause excessive thirst and frequent urination.
Not only salt and butter, but other toppings like onion, garlic powder, and artificial flavors also cause the same in dogs. Artificial flavors are toxic.
Safe Ways for Feeding Popcorn
As popcorn is one of the most tempting foods that everyone likes, we can’t stop dogs from feeding popcorn. They may also have an urge to taste it whenever they see popcorn. But when you start to feed dogs all of a sudden you may think can dog eat popcorn?
As I said before, dogs can eat popcorn but with some limitations. Let see what are the safe ways to feed popcorn to dogs
Way 1: Always feed plain, air-popped popcorn without toppings as it may reduce the risk of digestive problems.
Way 2: Remove kernels in popcorn. It may lead to choking Hazards.
Way 3: Don’t feed unpopped or partially popped popcorn as they get stuck in the tooth and cause intestinal problems.
Way 4: Feed popcorn occasionally not often. Also, feed them only in small quantities.
Conclusion
I hope you got a clear idea on your query can dog eat popcorn? from this article. Follow the above guidelines and feed popcorn to your dogs.
But also discuss once with your veterinarian, before introducing popcorn or any new food for your dogs.
FAQ
Do Dogs Like Popcorn?
Probably not all dogs like popcorn. Every dog has its unique taste and they eat accordingly.
What Are The Toppings To Be Avoided While Feeding Popcorn To Dogs?
Plain Popcorn without toppings will be good for dogs. Toppings like salt, butter, onion, garlic powder, and other artificial flavors should be avoided.
Does Eating Popcorn Increase Weight In Dogs?
No, popcorn is a low-calorie fiber-rich food. So dogs won’t gain weight when they eat popcorn in small amounts.
Does Feeding Popcorn To Dogs Have Any Limit?
Yes, while feeding popcorn to dogs one should make sure that they feed only 10% or less than that in their daily diet.
Why Are Dogs Allowed To Eat Popcorn Occasionally?
Dogs are allowed to occasionally because popcorn can cause indigestion, and diarrhea and suppress hunger which may lead to malnutrition.
