Can dogs eat popcorn? Yes, they can have a few bites, but there are some kernels of information you need to know before sharing your movie-time snack with your pup. Here's exactly how to safely share popcorn with your dog.
Is Popcorn Safe for Dogs?
Plain, air-popped popcorn is usually safe for dogs when fed in small amounts as a treat. This means you can give your dog a couple of pieces as a special snack during movie night—as long as you’re okay with the begging that’s sure to ensue afterward. Keep in mind that treats should not make up over 10% of your dog’s daily calories. At least 90% of their calories should come from a complete and balanced canine diet.
Although your dog is unlikely to experience significant side effects if they eat a dropped piece of buttered popcorn or popcorn with toppings, dogs shouldn’t eat these types of popcorn regularly. Buttery popcorn can lead to stomach upset or even pancreatitis, and the high fat content can contribute to obesity. Other toppings like salt and sugar can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. Some popcorn toppings like garlic are quite toxic to dogs.
All forms of popcorn pose a choking risk to dogs, but you should especially be cautious with unpopped or partially popped kernels. These are easily inhaled and can cause choking. Kernels can also get stuck between your dog's teeth, causing discomfort.
Popcorn may not be a good snack for dogs with dietary restrictions, such as dogs with diabetes or food allergies. Keep in mind that some dogs with food allergies may be allergic to corn. For these dogs, eating popcorn could cause skin issues, diarrhea, and gas.
Potential Risks and Considerations
If you plan to treat your dog to some popcorn, keep the following potential risks in mind:
- Harmful toppings: Butter, salt, garlic, sugar, and other toppings could cause gastrointestinal upset or other negative side effects. Use plain, air-popped popcorn only. If you want other toppings on the popcorn, remove the portion for your dog before adding your toppings.
- Choking: Inhaled popcorn could cause choking. Remove unpopped or partially popped kernels from the bag or bowl to reduce risk. Seek emergency attention if your pet begins to have trouble breathing, is gagging, or is collapsing.
- Weight gain: Too much popcorn could upset the balance of your dog's diet, and too many kernels could lead to weight gain. Only give your pet a few pieces of popcorn at a time. Make sure not to leave popcorn unattended and within your dog's reach.
- Health conditions: Some chronic health conditions, like diabetes or food allergies, may be aggravated by feeding popcorn. Check with your veterinarian before feeding popcorn to a dog with a chronic health condition.
Signs of Popcorn-Related Issues in Dogs
Signs that your pup isn't tolerating popcorn include:
- Lethargy
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Excessive gas
- Itchy or inflamed skin
- Loss of appetite
After feeding your pet popcorn, make sure to monitor your dog for any adverse reactions or digestive issues. Contact your veterinarian with any concerns. If you are concerned that your dog may be choking, seek emergency attention.
What To Do If Your Dog Eats Popcorn
You're unlikely to see any side effects if your dog consumes a few pieces of plain, buttery, sugary, or cheesy popcorn. However, if your dog eats large quantities of plain popcorn, monitor for vomiting, diarrhea, excessive gas, and lethargy. If they get into large quantities of buttery, cheesy, or sugary popcorn, you should contact your veterinarian for guidance. You should also contact your veterinarian if your pet consumes popcorn while having dietary restrictions due to conditions like diabetes.
If your pet eats any popcorn with toxic substances, such as garlic or onion powder, contact a veterinarian or pet poison helpline immediately. Consultation fees may apply.
If you're at all concerned or your pet is showing unusual symptoms after eating popcorn, contact a veterinarian.