Can Dogs Eat Popcorn? – American Kennel Club (2024)

Nothing brings more joy to most dogs than helping you clean up after movie night. Popcorn always finds its way into couch cushions and onto the floor, where our dogs are happy to “hoover” them up. The question most of us forget to ask ourselves, however, is can dogs eat popcorn?

Can Dogs Have Popcorn?

Popcorn itself is not bad for dogs. Popped corn kernels actually contain several minerals important to canine nutrition, like magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, and zinc, along with fiber and trace amounts of vitamins.

The stuff that makes popcorn taste delicious to humans, however, is a different story. The majority of us prefer our popcorn dripping with butter and loaded with salt, even though we know it is not good for us. The same goes for dogs. Butter, oils, salt, and the other toppings on popcorn can lead to intestinal upset in dogs, and the fats in oil and butter also contribute to obesity and obesity-related health problems.

Can Dogs Eat Popcorn? – American Kennel Club (1)

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There is an alternative. Plain, air-popped popcorn makes a nice, occasional treat for your dog. But kernels can get stuck in dogs’ teeth and pose a choking hazard, so it is probably a good idea to keep whole or only partially popped kernels away from curious dogs.

Is Eating Popcorn Safe for Dogs?

Yes and no. Plain, air-popped popcorn is safe for dogs to eat in small quantities. Buttered popcorn or popcorn with other toppings is not safe for your dog on a regular basis, although eating a few dropped pieces here and there probably won’t hurt them. As with any treat, too much popcorn is not good for your dog, and it is important to keep treats down to approximately 10% or less of a dog’s daily caloric intake.

Learn more about human foods dogs can and can’t eat.

Can Dogs Eat Popcorn? – American Kennel Club (2024)

FAQs

Can Dogs Eat Popcorn? – American Kennel Club? ›

Popcorn: Yes, dogs can eat popcorn. Unsalted, unbuttered, air-popped popcorn is OK for your dog in moderation.

Can dogs eat popcorn yes or no? ›

Is Eating Popcorn Safe for Dogs? Yes and no. Plain, air-popped popcorn is safe for dogs to eat in small quantities. Buttered popcorn or popcorn with other toppings is not safe for your dog on a regular basis, although eating a few dropped pieces here and there probably won't hurt them.

How much popcorn is good for dogs? ›

Dr. Dimock agrees and says that a handful for a medium-large dog is plenty–and only use it as a treat or snack, not a part of their regular diet. So enjoy your next movie night guilt-free with your pup and a little bit of plain air-popped popcorn for a special treat.

Can dogs eat a whole bag of popcorn? ›

A few kernels is unlikely to cause stomach issues in your dog, but you definitely don't want to let him have a whole serving. If your dog gets into a bag of popcorn, keep an eye on him for any discomfort, and contact your local vet if you have any concerns.

Why do dogs like popcorn so much? ›

But humans aren't the only ones who love popcorn, dogs are also huge fans (much like they are with most other types of people food). But dogs don't just like popcorn because it tastes great, they also love it for its satisfying crunch, which provides a type of stimulation that many dogs really enjoy.

Can dogs eat potato chips? ›

It's not a good idea to share salty foods like chips or pretzels with your dog. Eating too much salt can make your dog seriously thirsty. That means a lot of trips to the fire hydrant and it could lead to sodium ion poisoning.

Is butter bad for dogs? ›

‍Is butter bad for dogs? Butter isn't toxic for dogs, so your pup will likely be OK if they eat a small butter serving. However, the downside with this spread is that its high-fat content can cause pets to experience upset stomachs, Dr. McCullough explains.

Why does my dog throw up when he eats popcorn? ›

If your dog eats a big portion of salty popcorn, they become at increased risk of suffering from dehydration or excessive thirst, while salt toxicity is also a possibility — this happens when there's too much salt in your dog's system and can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, elevated blood pressure, seizures or even death.

Is skinny pop popcorn good for dogs? ›

Any commercially packaged popcorn like Smart Food, Skinny Pop, movie buttered popcorn, kettle corn, or caramel corn is NOT a snack choice you can share with your dog. Hulless popcorn has smaller, more tender kernels, making it a smart choice for a dog snack.

Can dogs eat strawberries? ›

Yes, a dog can eat strawberries. If you're looking for a fun and safe treat to help expand your dog's palate, strawberries are an excellent choice. Like many other fruits and berries, strawberries are a healthy snack choice for dogs. Other options include apples, watermelon, blueberries, raspberries and more.

Can popcorn cause blockage in dogs? ›

Unpopped popcorn kernels can be hazardous for your dog. They can get stuck in your dog's teeth and cause dental issues or they can cause choking problems and even an intestinal blockage.

Can dogs have cheese? ›

Cheese can be given as an occasional treat in moderation, alongside a healthy diet. If your dog manages to eat a whole block or other large amount of cheese, they may vomit. Keep an eye on them, and call your vet for advice if they become unwell.

Can dogs eat peanut butter? ›

Whether speaking to new or seasoned pet parents, veterinarians are often asked 'can dogs eat peanut butter? ' The good news is that regular peanut butter is safe to give your dog as a treat. Just make sure to avoid peanut butter with Xylitol, a sugar substitute found in lower or sugar-free products.

Can dogs eat hot dogs? ›

Feeding your dog fatty foods, like hot dogs, bacon, ribs, or fried chicken, can upset your dog's stomach and cause vomiting and diarrhea. It can also lead to pancreatitis, which is an inflammation of the pancreas. Some breeds, like Miniature Schnauzers and Yorkshire Terriers, may be more prone to pancreatitis.

Can dogs eat pizza? ›

If the pizza your dog ate included toppings, there's reason to be concerned. Many common pizza toppings, like onions and garlic, are considered unhealthy — and some may be toxic — to dogs. Additionally, pepperoni, sardines and sausages all have high salt and fat which could aggravate underlying pre existing disease.

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