Corn is commonly used as filler in inexpensive dog foods, but it also serves as a valuable source of essential nutrients like linoleic acid and omega-6 fatty acids – not to mention being high in fiber and carbohydrates!
However, corn should only be given to your pet in moderation – avoid giving him tortillas, cornbread or anything containing salt, sugar or additional ingredients that could potentially lead to diarrhea or other health complications.
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It is not digestible
Corn on the cob is not digestible to dogs and gnawing it can lead them to choke or ingestion and result in intestinal blockage. If this occurs, take your pet immediately to an emergency vet where x-rays or ultrasound scans may be done to locate its location and diagnose possible solutions for treating their intestinal blockage.
Sweet corn is generally safe for dogs to eat in moderation, and can often be found as an ingredient in many dog foods as it provides readily digestible carbohydrates and linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid essential for skin and coat health. In addition, its antioxidants contribute to supporting an optimal immune system.
Whilst dogs may enjoy corn on the cob as an occasional treat, it’s important to keep in mind that treats should only account for no more than 10% of your pup’s daily calorie consumption in order to prevent weight gain and digestive issues. Furthermore, corn may cause allergies in some pups.
It can cause choking
Dogs delight in snacking on corn from the cob, but this food source should not be considered healthy for them. Cobs are indigestible and may lead to choking as well as intestinal blockages in small dogs – at this point x-rays and ultrasound will likely need to be performed to locate any obstructions or blockages.
An intestinal obstruction in a dog is a potentially life-threatening situation that should be taken seriously, with symptoms including vomiting, loss of appetite, bloating and lethargy being seen by owners as warnings to take them immediately to a vet for diagnosis and treatment. If these signs appear in their pet it should be brought immediately for diagnosis and treatment by their owner.
Whole corn is rich in linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid not produced naturally by canines’ bodies and essential for maintaining a healthy skin and coat. Plus it’s full of antioxidants, fiber, GI tract regulators and improvers plus cardiovascular benefits! Add whole corn gradually to your dog’s diet to reap its maximum benefit!
It can cause intestinal blockage
Corn can be beneficial to dogs when fed in moderation. Its easily digestible carbohydrates provide energy needed to play and romp around, while also offering essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. However, those dogs prone to food allergies should avoid it.
Rice flour is an inexpensive filler for pet kibble recipes, and makes an ideal source of protein and fiber. Although not as nutritionally dense as meat proteins, rice also provides essential linoleic acid and omega-6 fatty acids as well as antioxidants like beta-carotene and vitamin E which may support your dog’s healthy immune system.
Avoid feeding your dog corn cobs as this poses a health hazard. Swallowing large pieces could result in gastrointestinal obstruction and injury to their digestive system if swallowed whole. In such instances, contact your vet immediately as this condition could require surgery in order to be effectively managed or even lead to death in extreme circumstances.
It can cause allergies
Corn is nutritious for dogs when eaten in moderation; however, too much corn may lead to allergies, gastrointestinal upset and itching in some dogs. Furthermore, carbohydrates found in corn may lead to weight gain; thus it’s best to feed your pup boiled or steamed kernels rather than canned versions which contain high amounts of sodium.
Corn is rich in linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid not produced naturally by your dog’s body. Furthermore, corn provides beta-carotene which promotes healthy coat and skin conditions as well as providing antioxidants and vitamins necessary to maintaining an effective immune system.
Corn is often fed to pets as a meal, which should not be done. Corn may pose a choking hazard for dogs and cause bowel obstruction; any time that this happens it requires immediate medical attention so if your pup ingested any, seek medical advice immediately.
