Can dogs or cats eat popcorn?

The odd piece of popcorn should be ok for your dog, provided it is given plain with no salt, sugar, or butter. Popcorn is not toxic to pets, so it is considered safe. However, too much could lead to weight gain and an unbalanced diet. So don’t overdo it, and make sure to offer it only as an occasional treat.

You should also watch your dog’s teeth and keep up with daily brushing, as popcorn pieces can get stuck and lead to dental disease.

There are some popcorn exceptions, though.

Can dogs eat salted popcorn?

Salted popcorn is not recommended for dogs. Too much salt is unhealthy for our pets and could even lead to hypernatremia, or salt toxicosis.

Can dogs eat flavoured popcorn?

Whilst popcorn served plain and air-popped, or cooked in relatively little oil, is unlikely to do much harm, heavily flavoured or seasoned popcorns could be problematic.

Gourmet-style popcorns are becoming increasingly popular, some of which are dangerous for dogs. Chocolate-coated popcorn is toxic. While we can metabolise the theobromine contained in chocolate, dogs cannot. This chemical is particularly high in dark chocolate and will cause hyper excitement, tremoring, and even seizures. Liver failure can occur in some cases. Chocolate toxicity is dose-dependent, so call your vet for advice if your dog has accidentally eaten some.

Many other readily available popcorns are coated in toffee or sugar, which is not healthy and could lead to weight gain over time.

Is popcorn good for dogs?

Popcorn doesn’t carry that many nutritional benefits for dog. While it’s true that unflavoured corn kernels are low in fat and a source of fibre, they don’t really contain enough vitamins and minerals to make them a particularly valuable addition to your pet’s diet.

Most vets would recommend sticking to your dog’s normal high-quality complete diet as much as possible. This will give them all their essential nutrients.

How to prepare popcorn for dogs

Popping your own kernels at home can be a good idea so that you can control how they have been cooked and processed. Dogs must avoid popcorn served buttered or cooked in large amounts of oil, as this can cause weight gain, tummy troubles, or even pancreatitis in some dogs.

Air-popped popcorn is safest for dogs, which can be achieved with a popcorn machine, in a paper bag in the microwave, or in a pan on your cooker hob. Cook the kernels for a couple of minutes or until you hear them begin to stop popping. Offer your dog a few pieces only, making sure not to give them any hard, un-popped kernels.

Remember that sugar and salt is not healthy for your pet. If you plan on flavouring your popcorn, then make sure to remove your dog’s portion first before adding your chosen toppings.

How much popcorn can a dog eat?

It’s best to offer popcorn to your dog sparingly. Extra treats or snacks should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake.

What are the signs of a popcorn allergy?

Popcorn allergy in dogs is uncommon, but it would indicate a hypersensitivity to corn. Many dogs will have already encountered corn in other food items or their usual diet, but it’s always sensible to introduce new food items, like popcorn, gradually.

Symptoms of corn allergy could include:

• Itchy or inflamed skin

• Increased paw licking

• Hives or swelling

• Recurrent ear and skin infections

• Digestive upset like vomiting, diarrhoea, and excessive gas

• Breathing difficulties or collapse in severe cases

If your dog is showing any of these symptoms, stop feeding them popcorn and call a vet for advice. Also, if you know that your dog has a dietary allergy to corn, then don’t offer them any popcorn, as you may trigger symptoms.