Can You Feed a Dog Popcorn?

Many dogs love to taste whatever their owners are eating, and popcorn is no exception. Popcorn can be a very safe, affordable and enjoyable treat for medium- to large-sized dogs.

  1. Considerations

    • When offering your dog any snack, including popcorn, do so in moderation, as overfeeding can lead to obesity. Offering popcorn to your dog also could cause an allergic reaction.

    Feeding

    • Be sure all kernels are popped fully. The popcorn should be plain---unsalted and unbuttered. Do not feed your dog popcorn that has any type of dye in it.

    Benefits

    • Popcorn is an excellent reward for specific obedience training or tasks. The treat is also an excellent reward to use when teaching your dog tricks.

    Warnings

    • Popcorn treats are not advisable for small, or toy, breeds, as the kernels and hulls can become lodged in either esophageal or rectal passages.

    Misconceptions

    • It's often assumed that eating popcorn can cause a dog to become overweight, but plain popcorn is extremely low in calories.