Corn has found its way into practically everything we consume in various forms. It is found in sweets, sauces, processed meats, and as well as dog meals. Thus, we know the answer to the question “can dogs eat corn?”. However, does this indicate it’s a nutritious snack or is it beneficial to your pup? Let us ascertain!
Corn and Its Nutritional Value
Corn is a high-fiber, carbohydrate-dense source of energy that is also high in linoleic acid and omega-6 fatty acids. Also, it is strong in antioxidants and a good source of potassium. Corn also contains phytochemicals such as carotenoids, which are believed to help prevent chronic diseases. Some of them
Fiber: It is necessary for food to pass through the digestive system and for stool quality to improve.
Potassium: It is required for normal kidney function. Moreover, it promotes effective heart and muscle function, as well as a healthy gastrointestinal tract.
Omega-6 fatty acids and Linoleic acid: They help maintain the health of your dog’s skin and hair.
Carbohydrates: They produce energy that your dog (or even us) use to d are starches that convert to glucose (or naturally occurring sugars) that your dog’s body can utilise.
While corn may offer health benefits for humans, it is not as healthy for dogs as you may expect.
Insoluble fiber is present in whole fresh corn kernels. Because the shell of the kernel is difficult for your dog to digest, it does not pass entirely through the digestive system. That is why you may notice corn in your dog’s excrement following a corn treat.
The nutrients in the kernel of corn are not absorbed because it is not digested at all.
Thus, the only advantage of whole corn for your dog is the carbs and fiber.
Having said that, corn is a common ingredient in low-cost dog foods and has received a bad rap in recent years. Consider the following reasons why corn may be good in dog food.
Are Dogs Capable of Eating Corn Kernels?
Corn kernels are tiny, which means they provide no choking danger and may be consumed safely by your dog. Make sure that you are giving only plain corn kernels without any additions like mayonnaise, salt, butter, etc. While a little fat is OK, excessive fat and salt can cause stomach problems and obesity.
Is It Safe for Dogs to Eat Sweet Corn?
Sweet corn is harvested at a younger stage than ordinary corn and has a significant amount of sugar. Furthermore, sweet corn is difficult to digest (because of the high amount of sugar). Having said that, sweet corn is not harmful when given in moderation and as an occasional treat.
Is Popcorn Safe for Dogs to Eat?
Popcorn may be a delightful and enjoyable treat for your four-legged friend if served unbuttered and unsalted. Plain popcorn is high in dietary fiber and carbohydrates, which provide additional energy.
Don’t serve flavored and pre-packaged popcorn, as they contain a high concentration of artificial flavors, oils, and salt. There is a separate article that answers the question better, if you want to read more about it, you can read it here.
When cooking your own popcorn, discard any kernels that do not fully pop, since these may cause stomach trouble in your dog. Additionally, you should be aware that popcorn that becomes lodged between your pup’s teeth may result in gum disease or tooth rot.
Is Cornflour Safe for Dogs to Eat?
Because cornflour is used as a thickening in certain dog diets, it is okay to incorporate it into your dog’s meals. While cornflour adds little nutritional value, it might be beneficial if your pet exclusively eats gluten-free meals or if you wish to make your own treats.
Is canned corn safe for dogs to eat?
Because canned corn is made from of kernels removed from the corn cob, it is ok for your dogs to eat. Just be careful not to feed it to your pup in excess.
Are Corn Cobs Safe for Dogs to Eat?
Corn cobs provide the greatest risk when giving corn to your dog. Many dog parents would toss a discarded corn cob to their dog, who will eat on the remaining corn pieces. Don’t give corn cobs to your dogs !
While dogs will eat the delectable kernels of corn left on the cob, the cob is NOT digestible. If your dog chomps on the cob, he or she risks choking or, worse, an intestinal obstruction.
This is especially true for big dogs, who are prone to gulp down enormous chunks of food. However, it is especially dangerous for little dogs, whose mouths and digestive systems are so small. The following are signs of cob ingestion:
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Lethargy
- Appetite loss
- Discomfort in the abdomen
Scrape the corn cob with the back of your knife to release the leftover kernels on the cob and then give them to your pooch. Bear in mind that it is preferable if no oils or spices are put on the corn.
Is Corn Toxic to Dogs?
Corn is generally safe for puppies and can be included in a well-balanced diet. However, it should be used in moderation. Treats should make up no more than 10% of your pup’s diet, and too much human food may deplete your pet’s nutritional needs or lead to weight gain.
Although it is extremely uncommon, some puppies develop corn allergies due to an overactive immune system in response to the substance. Sym Corn allergy in dogs manifests itself in the following ways:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Itching
- Inflammation of the skin
- Constipation
- Hives
- Obsession with licking
- Biting paws
If your pet exhibits any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian immediately.
Food intolerance symptoms include the following:
- Excessive Itching, particularly on the paws, ears, cheeks, and belly.
- Skin inflammation in the same locations
- Red eyes that may have some discharge
- Hair loss, including losing patches of hair (hot spots)
- Sneezing
Food allergies symptoms include:
- Itching of ears, face, belly, and paws
- Face swelling
- Ear infections that persist
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Loss of weight
- Lethargy