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Can dog's eat... Popcorn?

Yes, dogs can eat plain, air-popped popcorn in small amounts.

Plenty of pups have dived head-first into a bowl of freshly popped popcorn, whether they were invited to or not. And while most dog owners know that a little popcorn is unlikely to cause harm, it’s worth understanding which types are safe, how much to give, and what to avoid. Here's everything you need to know before sharing movie snacks with your four-legged friend.

#Is popcorn safe for dogs?

Yes, plain, air-popped popcorn is generally safe for dogs in small amounts. Popcorn is simply dried kernels from a special variety of corn with a hard outer shell and a starchy centre. When heated, steam pressure causes the kernel to pop, creating the fluffy texture we recognise.

Popcorn isn’t particularly nutritious, but it isn’t inherently unhealthy either, provided it’s served plain, without butter, oil, salt or sugary coatings.

However, there are a few things to watch out for:

  • Unpopped or partially popped kernels can be a choking hazard for dogs, especially for small dogs.
  • Kernels can get stuck in teeth and irritate gums. Find out if dogs get tooth pain.
  • Popcorn is very dry, meaning your dog may drink more afterwards. A lot of popcorn late in the evening could lead to midnight toilet trips.

##Can dogs eat homemade popcorn?

Absolutely. Homemade popcorn is actually the safest way to share this treat because you control the whole process when you make it yourself. Using an air-popper is even better. You don’t need any oils or butter, and any unpopped kernels tend to stay in the machine rather than falling into your snack bowl. Just make sure it’s had time to cool before offering it to your dog.

##Can dogs eat popcorn with salt?

It’s best to avoid salted popcorn, especially premade bagged popcorn, which is usually heavily
seasoned. Salt is an essential nutrient, but dogs get all the salt they need from their regular food, and they tolerate far less salt in their diets than humans do.

A couple of lightly salted pieces for a fit, healthy, medium-to-large-sized dog are unlikely to do any harm. But small dogs, puppies, senior dogs, or dogs with health conditions are more sensitive to the dehydrating effects of salt, and should avoid salted popcorn entirely. Read about dehydration in dogs.

Too much can also lead to salt poisoning (salt toxicity). The smaller the dog, the easier it is to accidentally give them too much. If your pup has helped themselves to some salty treats and you notice them drinking more and vomiting, don’t wait for the tremors and seizures, contact your vet. 

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##Can dogs eat sweet popcorn?

Sweet popcorn shouldn’t be on your pup’s approved treat list. It’s just empty calories. And if it’s salted caramel popcorn, that’s a double no!

If your dog sneaks one or two pieces, there’s no need to panic, but you shouldn’t offer it intentionally. However, if your dog has diabetes, sweetened popcorn can cause more serious problems, so contact your vet if they eat some by accident.

#Health benefits of popcorn for dogs

Popcorn does contain small amounts of:

However, your dog already gets these nutrients from a well-balanced complete diet. Plus, because popcorn is cooked at high temperatures, some of the B vitamins may be destroyed anyway.

The main benefit of popcorn for dogs is simply texture and variety. For some dogs, a few pieces of popcorn are a welcome crunchy treat or even a new, exciting training reward.

#How much popcorn can a dog eat?

Start with just one piece of popcorn to make sure your dog tolerates it well. Although uncommon, some dogs can have corn allergies or sensitivities.

If all goes well, use the portion guide below:

  • 1-3 pieces for a small dog
  • 4-6 for a medium dog
  • A small handful for a large dog

Always allow popcorn to cool and remove unpopped kernels before serving. If you notice loose stools, gurgly tummies or gas, use a dog poo chart to monitor what comes out the other end and assess whether you need to contact your vet.

#So, can dogs eat popcorn?

Yes, plain air-popped popcorn is a safe way to add a new, interesting texture to your pup’s diet. But only share a few topping-free kernels at a time. Cinema-style or luxury popcorn, with all its butter, sugar and salt, is strictly for humans. Butter and oil can cause tummy upsets, sugar adds unnecessary calories (or is unsafe for diabetic dogs), and too much salt can lead to salt poisoning.

A problem-free approach to sharing is first to set aside a dog-friendly portion, then go wild with your favourite toppings. Just remember not to leave your bowl unattended.