Can Dogs Eat Popcorn?

The short answer: Yes.

The long answer: Your dog can occasionally snack on popcorn as long as it’s the plain, air-popped variety. It should not be the kind that’s served with salt, butter, oil, or any other artificial flavouring. These condiments and seasonings can cause harmful effects to your dog’s stomach, which may lead to vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration, and/or abdominal pain.

How to feed popcorn to your dog: Check and remove unpopped or partially popped kernels. These may cause dental pain, airway obstruction, indigestion, and constipation to your dog.  

Here are three ideas for popcorn treats your dog will love:

1. Add a layer of grated cheese to your dog’s plain popcorn for an indulgent treat.
2. Create easy-peasy poppers he won’t be able to resist! Mix popcorn with unsweetened peanut butter and extra virgin olive oil.
3. Surprise your pup with cut-up pieces of chicken with his popcorn.

In summary: Unflavoured popcorn can be given to your pet as an occasional treat. However, always be mindful of how much you serve him. Though it may contain minerals such as magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, and zinc, you’re better off getting these from other fresh sources. Explore our “can dogs eat” category to discover which fruits and vegetables dogs can safely consume. 

References:
Can Dogs Eat Popcorn?
Can Dogs Eat Popcorn

Feature photo by Georgia Vagim on Unsplash