Why only in moderation for dogs
Sweetcorn kernels are not toxic to dogs. They contain starch, fibre and a little protein, and corn is used in some commercial dog food recipes too. A small amount of plain cooked kernels is fine as a treat.
The real danger is the cob. A dog chews it, bites off a large piece and swallows it, and the cob does not digest. It can get stuck in the stomach or gut and block it. This is a serious condition, so if your dog swallowed a cob or a piece of one, contact a vet.
How to give it
- Give only cooked kernels taken off the cob.
- Do not add salt, butter or spices.
- The first time, give very little and watch how your dog feels.
- Throw chewed cobs away at once, somewhere your dog cannot reach them.
What to watch out for
- A swallowed cob or piece of cob can block the gut: contact a vet, even if your dog seems well for now.
- Vomiting, loss of appetite, belly pain, dullness or no stools can be signs of a blockage.
- Corn with butter and salt, or tinned in salty water, is not suitable for dogs.
- Too many kernels can cause diarrhoea or bloating.
Different parts
Not every part of this food is equally safe.
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Kernels
In moderationPlain cooked kernels with nothing added are fine in small amounts.
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Cob
DangerousThe cob does not digest and can block the gut, so if your dog swallowed a piece of it, contact a vet.
What to give instead
- Peas Yes, peas are fine for dogs: fresh or frozen, cooked without salt, they make a good treat or an addition to a meal. Safe
- Carrots Yes, carrots are fine for dogs: raw or cooked, unseasoned and cut into pieces, they make a crunchy, low-calorie treat. Safe
- Rice Yes, plain cooked rice is fine for dogs: it is easy to digest, as long as it has no salt, seasoning or sauce. Safe
- Pumpkin Yes, plain cooked pumpkin flesh without sugar or spices is fine for dogs, but not the skin, the stem or pumpkin pie filling. Safe
Looking for a treat?
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