No, dogs cannot eat popcorn as they are dipped in salt, sugar, butter, or other delicious ingredients. As a responsible pet parent, always choose health over popcorn!
Table of Contents
What is Popcorn?
Popcorn is a variety of kernel-corn puffed or “popped” when heated in a microwave or pressure cooker. Popcorn has a history of domestication about 10000 years ago from today that is now in Mexico.
Archeological evidence of Popcorn fossils says it used to be cultivated around 4700BC, probably a food production for the Peru dynasty.
Is Popcorn Safe for Dogs?
No, popcorn of any kind is not safe for dogs to eat. Popcorn dipped in butter, salt, and sugar can cause dogs health hazards, including vomiting and diarrhea.
Why Is Popcorn Bad for Dogs?
Popcorn are bad for dogs due to their ingredients. The primary components are:
Corn
Butter
Oil
Salt
Sugar
Caramel
Preservatives
Corn: Although corn has Vitamin B and a few antioxidants, dogs are allergic to them. The consequences of consuming corn are:
Sugar: Popcorns also contain sugar as an ingredient. Apart from granulated sugar, xylitol and corn syrups are also added to make it sweeter. Three of the ingredients are toxic to dogs. Consumption of sugar, xylitol, and corn syrup can lead to:
Diabetes
Obesity
Weight gain
Cardiovascular issues
Joint issues
Disorientation
Seizures
Muscle tremors
Lethargy
Coma
Death
Salt: Popcorns contain excessive salt in them, causing sodium ion poisoning. The consequences of sodium ion poisoning are:
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Dehydration
High temperature
Lack of appetite
Seizures
GI issues
Muscle tremors
Pancreatitis
Kidney failure
Coma
Death
Caramel: Caramels are high in sugar and fat. Consuming caramel can lead to:
Obesity
Cardiovascular issues
Hip dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia
Weight gain
Chronic diabetes
Butter/Oil: Microwave popcorn bags have flavored butter and oil, with fat content leading to:
Gas
Enzyme problems
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Indigestion
Bowel problem
Kidney Disease
Obesity
Heart Problem
Arthritis
Preservatives and PFCs: Popcorns have preservatives and PFCs. PFCs are said to be the cancer-causing element. On the other hand, preservatives can trigger all other health issues discussed earlier.
Unpopped popcorn kernels: Unpopped popcorn kernels are dangerous and can take a toll on your dog’s digestive system. The unpopped popcorn is hard to digest and can cause:
Vomiting
Digestive Issue
Irritation
Dehydration
How Much Popcorn to Feed Your Dog?
Popcorn in any amount is unsafe and unhealthy for dogs. Hence, it is best to skip the popcorn.
What If My Dog Ate Popcorn?
Consuming plain, unsalted, no-oil popcorn once is okay for dogs; however, if your dog consumes seasoned popcorn or sweet popcorn, he will show symptoms within a few hours. Symptoms such as
Dehydration
Vomiting
Nausea
Allergic reactions
Diarrhea
Coughing
Choking
Fatigue
Hence, it is best to visit a veterinarian and seek medical help. Also, Keep away human foods from your dog’s reach.
Alternatives to Popcorn
Instead of popcorn, you can serve your dog more healthy and delicious snacks. Some of the are listed below which are said to be loved the many pooches:
No. Butter dipped popcorn is high in fat and calories. It can cause your dog stomach upset and obesity. In addition, dogs with diabetic problems must avoid having butter popcorn.
Can dogs eat microwaved popcorn?
No, microwaved popcorn contains fat, oils, and harmful chemicals (PFCs) that can cause your dog heart problems, kidney disease, nausea.
Can dogs eat unsalted, plain popcorn?
Yes, dogs can eat unsalted, plain popcorn once in a lifetime. However, the key product corn can trigger allergies in dogs if fed regularly.
Can dogs eat kettle popcorn?
No. Kettle popcorns are sweeter, full of sodium and calories than any air puffed popcorn. In addition, kettle popcorn can cause your dog indigestion, bowel problems, and diarrhea.
Can dogs eat Caramel Popcorn?
Caramel popcorn consists of butter, salt, and a high amount of sugar. It is a very unwholesome food for your dog that can cause serious health problems. Even some sugar-free caramel popcorn contains xylitol. Xylitol is considered to be very poisonous for dogs. Even a tiny amount can cause liver disease, hypoglycemia, and more severe health issues.
Final Thoughts
Popcorn is unsafe and unhealthy for dogs, even in small quantities. From diarrhea to death, popcorn can cause harm. It is best to opt for healthier alternatives for your dogs. If you introduce any new food to your dog, consult a vet and start with small quantities.
