Corn is a common and healthy food. There are different types of corn food available like cornbread, tortillas, corn muffins, and more. We all know that corn is a nutritious food and good for humans.
But is corn healthy for dogs as well? The answer is yes, but if you give them in the right way. Your dogs can safely enjoy corn off the cob, without butter or seasonings.
However, corn on the cob can be dangerous and create health issues for your dog. If you know how to feed corn to your dog safely, your dog will be healthy. So, let's talk about it today!
Is Corn Healthy For Dogs?
Both raw and cooked corn are safe for your dogs if you give them in a small portion. Frozen corn can be a fun, crunchy snack for your dog. But you need to watch them more closely to prevent choking.
Whole grain corn products are good, as they maximize fiber benefits found in the outer layers of the corn kernel. Corn contains nutrients like protein, antioxidants, carbohydrates, linoleic acid, fat, and fiber. It also contains important vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C, B, E, and K, magnesium, and potassium. Corn is absolutely the best food for caring for older dogs and raising puppies.
You can feed your dog plain corn. Don't add butter, salt, or other ingredients. Never give your dog corn cooked with onions or garlic, as both are toxic to dogs.
Does Corn Have Any Nutritional Value for Dogs?
Yes, corn provides nutritional value for your dog. Corn is a good source of protein, carbohydrates, linoleic acid, and antioxidants. If you feed corn in moderation, it will help your dog with some health benefits:
Fiber
If you feed your dog whole grains, you add fiber to your dog's diet. The outer layers of the corn kernel have a bran layer that is full of insoluble fiber. Fiber helps your dog to create bulk in stools and prevents constipation. It also helps dogs feel full and satisfied.
Minerals
Corn also contains with minerals such as zinc, magnesium, copper, and iron. These minerals help your dog's cell growth, protein building, muscle or nerve activity, and a healthy immune system.
B Vitamins
When you add corn to your pet's meal, it will contain vitamin B like Folic acid (B9), B6, and B12. These vitamins help your dog digest food. Additionally, vitamin B supports the health of your dog's immune system and brain.
Starch
Another health benefit of corn that is it contains a high amount of starch. And starch is a good source of energy. You should give corn to your dog in its whole kernel form because the fiber slows digestion and helps prevent spikes in blood sugar. But, too many starches or sugars can cause blood sugar spikes and weight gain. So, you must take care of it.
Is Corn Completely Safe For Dogs?
Your dog can enjoy corn off the cob in small amounts, but you must give it in moderation. Most veterinary nutritionists suggest taking corn as a part of a balanced diet for your dog. Though corn is a popular cereal grain sometimes it may create allergic issues for your dog.
Make sure your dog is not allergic to corn. You must avoid giving your dog corn cobs and husks. Because these can be choking hazards and cause intestinal blockages. Your dog might try to eat corn accessories like corn holders and sticks, so you must be cautious of it.
Corn is high in starch and sugar. So, if you give your dog a large amount of corn, it can be unhealthy. Sometimes, it can cause diabetes or weight issues. But training your dog more and taking them out for more exercise walks is also desirable.
Try to avoid canned food and corn syrup, because canned food or other products contain less health benefits and contain high sugar and starch levels.
Don't give butter, oils, garlic, onions, and spices to your dog. Moldy corn contains aflatoxin, so you must avoid it. Periodically, a harmful mold can cause severe illness. If you would like to ensure your dog’s safety, you must monitor your dog's food.
How To Safely Feed Corn To Dogs?
If you want to give your dog some corn as a treat or to mix with their food, make sure it’s plain, not canned, and off the cob. Treats should only be 10% of your dog's diet, with the other 90% coming from balanced dog food.
If you want to give your dog a bit of corn or mix it with their food, make sure it’s plain. Try not to take corn from a can, and off the cob. And the corn should be free of any butter, salt, or seasoning.
You must remember that your caring can make up 10 percent of your dog's health issues. The rest of 90 percent of your pet's health condition depends on good-quality dog food. If you provide all the nutrients that your dog needs, it will stay healthy and happy.
Final Words
Your dog can enjoy some human food, but it is a very small amount. If you give them too much, it can cause weight gain or nutritional issues. Before giving your dog something new, always check if the food is safe for dogs.
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