by When we enjoy something that we love to eat, it is common to want to share that pleasure with those we love. Even though they are our four-legged friends, right?
But, how to know if this food will not harm the health of our friends?
In today’s article, we’re going to answer the big question: “can dogs eat popcorn?” In addition, we will give you all the details on how to prepare popcorn so that your dog can enjoy it too. Check out!
Can dogs eat popcorn or not?
Dogs can eat popcorn, but ideally they don’t . This appetizer is made from corn kernels. Therefore, this is, for dogs, an “empty” food with no significant nutritional value for canine diets.
Eating popcorn (taking only corn into account) will not bring direct benefits to the dog. However, if this popcorn is too seasoned, has salt or butter, it can harm the animal’s health. This is because of the amount of fat and sodium these condiments can bring into the dog’s bloodstream.
My dog ate popcorn. And now, what to do?
If your dog has eaten popcorn, there is no need to despair . Despite the veterinary recommendation for the pet to avoid this food, it may not be as bad for your body as chocolate, for example.
If the popcorn is ingested in small amounts, there is no need to be too worried or take it to the doctor right away. Therefore, the dog can eat popcorn in small and small amounts.
If popcorn is ingested in a moderate to high amount, you need to be more attentive to the animal, especially its evacuation habits. Popcorn is a fiber-rich food and can trap the intestines of animals. Therefore, it is necessary to analyze if the dog continues to relieve itself normally or if it does not present any significant change in behavior.
If your puppy seems a little sad or lazy than usual after eating a lot of popcorn, you may want to take him to the vet for a general evaluation.
In short: it’s not ideal, but the dog can eat popcorn as long as it’s in minimal amounts.
However, if you really want to let your dog try it (or if your dog already likes popcorn), we leave you some important information below. With them, you will prepare the popcorn in a way that your dog eats and has no problems with it. Come on?
How to prepare popcorn that dogs can eat?
Despite being a food not recommended for dogs , there are those who love to eat popcorn. If this is the case with your pet, know that there is a way to prepare popcorn so that it enjoys that unique taste, without causing great harm to its health.
Check step by step!
1- Choose the grain well
To prepare the popcorn that the dog can eat, it is necessary to give preference to the natural corn grain. That is, opt for those that come in transparent bags and that are not placed directly in the microwave.
In general, industrialized popcorn (the one that comes ready to be prepared in the microwave) can harm your dog’s health. This is because this type of popcorn undergoes a different treatment. In addition, it receives condiments, seasonings and preservatives that can be harmful to the dog. It is often more salty and greasy than natural popcorn.
2- Pay attention to the preparation
Once you have the corn at home to make popcorn, it can be popped in a healthier way. You can use a pan with a minimal amount of water, for example.
A second option is to put the corn kernels inside a paper bag, like the ones used to pack the bread we bring from the bakery.
This bag can then be placed in the microwave for a few minutes, depending on the power of your appliance, and thus the corn kernels burst without needing anything additional. In this preparation, it will only be corn and there will be no contraindication for your pet. But pay attention to the weather, always keep an eye on it to prevent the popcorn or paper bag from burning.
3- Be careful with the amount
Although the preparation of popcorn is suitable for the dog, it is necessary to pay attention to the amount. Give the dog just a little, so that he satiates his desire without causing damage and imbalances to his body. Never add salt or any flavoring to your dog’s popcorn. Popcorn has to be given in its most natural form possible!
