Can dogs eat popcorn?

Whether we’re going to the cinema to catch the latest blockbuster, or sitting at home on the couch to binge on the latest boxset, nothing is quite as nice to snack on as popcorn. But does popcorn make a suitable food or treat for your dog? Let’s find out shall we?

Salted or sweet?

The basic answer to the question is yes – popcorn, in its plainest form, is absolutely fine to share with your dog. Basic, unflavoured popcorn has almost nothing to it and so there’s nothing to upset your dog’s stomach there.

But how many of us eat just plain popcorn? Usually it has been flavoured and this is where we encounter some issues. Salted popcorn is not good for dogs as it’s very salty indeed and this can cause health issues. By the same token, sweet popcorn is usually very sugary and will contribute to weight problems with your dog. Buttered or caramel/toffee popcorn is certainly out as it’s just too fatty, and that doesn’t leave us with many options does it? 

Ok, so if a piece falls on the floor and your dog hoovers it up before you’ve had the chance to grab it, it won’t likely cause any issues, but popcorn with any flavouring shouldn’t be a treat for a dog.

If you want to treat your dog to their own little bowl of popcorn, making your own popcorn is the best way to make sure it’s totally dog-friendly. Avoid adding any oil, butter, salt, sugar – or anything else you fancy on top – and dish up a small handful before you start making your own.

And if you’re short for time, the tasty treats you’ll find at tails.com are perfect for a Saturday movie night.

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