Can Dogs Eat Popcorn? When it is or isn’t an Emergency

No, dogs shouldn’t eat popcorn. Many popcorn products are not safe for dogs, especially if they are store-bought. This applies to all varieties and flavors including sweet, buttered, and salted popcorn.

Why are popcorns bad for dogs?

Human foods like popcorn may contain ingredients that are toxic or harmful to dogs. Salted popcorn, for example, is not safe for dogs because of the high sodium content. Dogs may suffer from sodium poisoning if they eat too much salted food in one sitting. Common symptoms include diarrhea and weakness.

Some popcorns may also be mixed with additives like onion and garlic powder. You may be already aware of how dangerous these ingredients are to dogs. Sweet and buttered popcorns aren’t any better. The large amount of fat and sugar these flavored popcorns contain may lead to short-term symptoms like stomach upsets. Longer-term, dogs that are fed too much fatty food like flavored popcorn will become prone to health disorders like pancreatitis.

Plain, air-popped popcorn might be the only variety that is safe for dogs to eat in moderation. That said, it’s not a good thing to let dogs eat plain popcorn on a regular basis as it may reduce their hunger and discourage them from eating their regular dog food.

Can dogs eat popcorn kernels?

No, dogs shouldn’t eat popcorn kernels. In addition to the risks highlighted above, popcorn kernels can cause dental issues if they get stuck in the dog’s teeth. Smaller dogs and puppies may also face the risk of choking and intestinal blockages if they swallow too many popcorn kernels.

Can dogs be allergic to popcorn?

Yes, some dogs are allergic to the popcorn or the ingredients that come with it. The allergic reaction can present itself in different ways. Some dogs may develop symptoms like skin irritation and excessive licking. You should contact the vet straight away if you suspect your dog is having an allergic reaction to popcorn.