Grilling and outdoor barbecues are ideal throughout the summer. We, as well as our four-legged pals, are enticed by the diversity of aromas emanating from all of the delectable delicacies presented. Can dogs, on the other hand, eat corn?
Corn is used in so many cuisines that it has become a mainstay in most American diets. Is it possible for your dog to eat some tasty kernels as well, or should only batter-dipped corn dogs be served?
Corn is one of the most popular vegetables in the United States, and it can be found in anything from Thanksgiving corn casserole to Mexican street corn on a stick to southern-style cornbread paired with BBQ. Can our dogs, on the other hand, eat corn and love it as much as we do?
Can Dogs Eat Corn?
Corn, like most other “treats” for dogs, should be given in moderation. There’s nothing wrong with your dog eating a little corn in limited, controlled amounts if they love it. In fact, most forms of corn (particularly sweet corn) have enough natural sugars to appeal to dogs, so your dog is likely to like this delightful alternative to dog biscuits.
Read also: Can Dogs Eat Raspberries?
Does Corn Have Any Nutritional Value for Dogs?
The answer is yes. It’s not simply filler in dog food; it’s also good for your dog’s health. Protein, carbs, linoleic acid, and antioxidants are all abundant in this food. Despite the fact that carbohydrates have a poor reputation, many carbohydrate sources (such as maize) provide critical elements including protein, fat, fiber, and vitamins. Carbohydrates are also high in fiber, which helps to maintain gut health and motility.
Corn is high in protein, carbs, fiber, and antioxidants, making it an excellent option to boost the nutritional content of dog diets while using the fewest feasible ingredients.
“High-fiber snacks are beneficial because they can help reduce appetites,” explains Denver veterinarian Kaci Angelone, DVM, MS. “High-fiber meals keep individuals fuller for longer, which can help them lose weight.”
Read also: Can Dogs Eat Cantaloupe?
How Should Corn for Dogs Be Prepared?
Corn is used in a number of ways, but not all of them are good for your dog. Here’s a short review of what is and isn’t safe:
Corn on the Cob
This one should be a no-brainer. While corn cobs may appear to be a delightful treat/toy combination for your dog, they are difficult for dogs to swallow and digest, which can lead to intestinal obstructions.
Canned Corn
It’s a high-fiber snack with no added salt or additives. Corn casseroles and similar dishes should be avoided due to the excess fat and oil. I’d omit the creamed corn if you’re using canned corn, but raw corn is acceptable.
Corn Tortillas and Cornbread
Moderation will be the most important warning here once again. Corn tortillas, depending on how they’re made, can be heavy in salt, and cornbread is frequently packed with oil and butter, all of which can cause upset stomachs and diarrhea in the short term, as well as chunky dogs in the long run.
Try not to serve these items to your dog on purpose, but if he swipes a bite that has fallen on the floor, he should be OK. Just keep an eye out for indications of disease and contact your veterinarian right away if you see anything unusual.
Read also: Can Dogs Eat Melon?
Can My Dog Eat Popcorn?
Popcorn is okay for dogs as long as it is unsalted and unbuttered. Plain, air-popped popcorn is a light and natural treat that’s high in fiber and provides additional energy.
The unhealthy part is the bucket of popcorn with salt, butter, and other tastes, so no matter how delighted he is about this snack, keep it far enough away from him that he won’t take pieces behind your back.
If you opt to give your dog plain popcorn, be sure that all of the kernels have popped. There will be a few bits that don’t entirely pop in most batches; for a dog, these are the ones that aren’t digestible and can cause an upset stomach.
Popcorn caught between their teeth can lead to dental decay and gum disease, among other issues. It will also add calories to their daily consumption, exactly like when their humans consume too much popcorn.
Read also: Can Dogs Eat Kiwi?
When Is Corn Unsafe For Dogs?
Before you feed your dog corn, there are a few things to think about. Making sure your dog doesn’t have any dietary allergies to maize is one of those issues.
Cailin R Heinze, VMD, DACVN, is a nutrition assistant professor at Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine. “True food allergies in dogs and cats are quite uncommon,” Heinze explains. Corn is not an issue in and of itself, and may be included in a well-balanced and healthy diet.”
Even yet, some dogs are sensitive to new foods and may develop allergies later in life, so proceed with caution when trying new foods. Consult your dog’s veterinarian if you detect diarrhea or skin issues after they consume a certain meal.
Another factor to think about is the type of maize you feed your dog. If you’re going to feed them popcorn, make sure it’s unsalted and unbuttered. Popcorn can have a lot of fat and salt in it. Too much can be harmful to your dog, leading to obesity and more serious problems such as renal disease.
Also, be cautious about offering them a corn cob. While it may appear to be a tasty treat for them to chew on, a single piece can induce choking or even intestinal obstruction. Take them to the local vet facility if you observe crying, restlessness, vomiting, or any other form of gastrointestinal trouble after they eat a corn cob.
As with anything new you give your dog, check with your veterinarian first to be sure it’s safe for them to eat.
Read also: Can Dogs Eat Durian?
Can dogs eat sweet corn?
Sweet corn is collected at a younger stage than ordinary corn and contains a lot of sugar. Furthermore, this kind of maize is starchy and difficult to digest. Sweet corn, on the other hand, is not harmful if given in little amounts and as a special treat.
Can dogs eat canned corn?
Canned corn is made out of kernels that have been removed from the cob, making it suitable for dogs to eat. Just be sure you don’t offer it to your dog in excess.
Can dogs eat cornflour?
You may safely add cornflour to your dog’s meals because it is used as a thickening in certain dog feeds. Cornflour has little nutritional value, but it might come in handy if your pet only eats gluten-free foods or if you wish to make your own treats.
Read also: Can Dogs Eat Strawberries?
Key Takeaways
- Corn is okay for dogs to eat once in a while. Corn cobs, on the other hand, should be avoided since they might induce major GI blockage.
- All only the kernels to your pet to be on the safe side. Butter and salt should also be avoided as toppings.
- Finally, make sure your pet gets all of the nutrients he or she requires. Give corn as a treat only once in a while, and keep an eye on your dog to make sure he doesn’t eat too much.
- Consult your veterinarian before adding any new items to your dog’s diet to ensure that they are safe to eat.
