Here’s how to keep your popcorn-loving pup healthy and happy
Movie nights and Netflix marathons can feel incomplete without a big bowl of popcorn, but is it really a good idea to share your crunchy snack with Fido?
According to experts, the short answer is plain, unseasoned, air-popped popcorn can be safe for dogs when given in small amounts. But popular movie theater popcorn commonly found in grocery stores often has butter, salt, and other seasonings that may be dangerous to dogs.
When given in small quantities, plain popcorn is low in fat and sugar, and actually includes several minerals considered beneficial for your dog’s health, such as magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and manganese. The low-calorie snack is also high in fiber and contains several vitamins, including vitamin A, vitamin B6, thiamin, and vitamin E, all of which are essential to canine health. (Trusted Source) Remember, the benefits of popcorn for dogs are only relevant when it comes to plain, unseasoned, air-popped popcorn.
Premade popcorn often contains high levels of salt, butter, and other seasonings that are harmful to your pup’s health. Here are some of the popcorn additives that might pose a risk to your dog:
🚨 If you suspect your dog has ingested seasoned popcorn or is displaying signs of irritation after consuming even plain popcorn, contact your vet immediately.
Plain air-popped popcorn can be safe for dogs in small amounts, but the crunchy snack may still pose some health risks even when consumed without flavorings.
Plain popcorn can cause minimal problems, if any, when dry and well-popped, and given as small amounts of treats. Dogs love their popcorn!
Dr. Bruce Armstrong
When giving your pup a taste of plain, air-popped popcorn, think of it as a treat. Stick to no more than a handful of pieces of popcorn for a medium-to-large-sized dog per day — and even less for smaller dogs. Healthy feeding guidelines suggest treats make up 10% or less of a dog’s daily calorie content. Avoid giving any popcorn to dogs with corn allergies.
There are hundreds of healthy dog treats and snack ideas out there that would make a great alternative to popcorn. Below are some popular healthy snacks similar to the texture of popcorn we highly recommend rewarding Fido with for good behavior — or just ‘cause!
These crunchy, dog-friendly alternatives to popcorn are available online or in stores.
Using fresh foods for dog treats is often healthier than a store-bought treat because you get to choose your ingredients. Look to your fridge or pantry for these homemade, dog-friendly treat alternatives to popcorn.
The bottom line is that when consumed in moderation, plain air-popped popcorn is safe for dogs. And even if your dog garbles up a few fallen pieces of your movie theater snack, you probably don’t need to worry about serious health issues. But keep the buttery, seasoned goodness far from Fido whenever possible.
If your popcorn contains butter, salt, or other toppings and flavorings, be on the lookout for signs of an upset stomach, allergic reaction or corn kernels stuck in your dog’s teeth. A few dropped kernels likely won’t do major damage, but you should consult your vet to be safe.
A small handful of plain, unseasoned, air-popped popcorn is safe for a medium-large-sized dog. Note that healthy feeding guidelines suggest treats make up 10% or less of a dog’s daily calorie content.
No, dogs cannot eat microwave popcorn or any popcorn that has butter, salt, or seasonings.
Dogs can eat plain, air-popped popcorn in moderation.
Dogs love the satisfying crunchiness of popcorn — just like humans do.
