Can dogs eat popcorn?
Quick verdict
In moderation
Recommended amount
A few pieces of plain air-popped popcorn occasionally.
Why
Plain air-popped popcorn is an occasional treat for dogs.
Can dogs eat popcorn, and why?
Plain air-popped popcorn is an occasional treat for dogs. Only plain, unsalted, unbuttered popcorn; unpopped kernels are a choking and tooth hazard.
Dogs are omnivores, so most of their diet should be a complete, balanced dog food, with treats on top. They cope with a wide range of foods, but rich, fatty or sugary ones can cause stomach upset and, over time, weight gain or pancreatitis.
How to feed popcorn to dogs
- •How much: A few pieces of plain air-popped popcorn occasionally.
- •How often: An occasional treat, not a daily food. Treats — including fruit and veg — should make up no more than about 10% of a dog’s daily calories.
- •Young pets: Puppies have more delicate tummies and specific growth needs, so introduce any new food in tiny amounts and check with your vet.
- •Preparation: Always wash fresh produce, remove any pips, stones, seeds, peel or tough skin where relevant, and serve it plain — never with salt, sugar, oil, butter or seasoning.
More foods dogs might eat
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding dogs well:
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat popcorn?
In moderation. Plain air-popped popcorn is an occasional treat for dogs.
How much popcorn can a dog have?
A few pieces of plain air-popped popcorn occasionally.
Can dogs eat popcorn every day?
It’s best as an occasional treat rather than a daily food. Treats — including fruit and veg — should make up no more than about 10% of a dog’s daily calories.
Can puppies eat popcorn?
Puppies have more delicate tummies and specific growth needs, so introduce any new food in tiny amounts and check with your vet.
Check popcorn for another pet