Have you ever wondered “can Pugs eat popcorn?” You’re NOT alone. Many people love giving their dog human foods. That’s why I wanted to find out whether or not it is okay to give dogs popcorn.
Can Pugs Eat Popcorn?
The short answer is yes they can, however, it’s NOT a good idea. Your dog can choke on the corn seeds or the kernel bits can get wedged between their teeth and gums, causing decay and other health problems.
After eating popcorn, most of us floss our teeth to remove the kernels from our teeth. I personally have to floss to remove them the kernels from my retainer. You won’t be able to floss your dog’s teeth.

If you feed your Pug some popcorn while watching a movie together, I know you want to give them a treat for behaving properly. However, you may want to choose a different type of doggie treat for them. (I’ll share a recipe below)
Related: Pet Plate For Pugs (With Human-Grade Ingredients)
Why Popcorn Is Bad For Pugs
The truth is that plain, air-popped, unsalted, unbuttered popcorn won’t harm your Pug if they eat it in small amounts.
As long as the popcorn does not contain any butter, cheese, spices, salt, and spices, caramel, or other flavors. (which can cause digestive problems)
Pugs already have teeth problems and if a popcorn kernel gets stuck, it can cause them infections, pain, decay and may even cause them to choke.
Most dogs, especially, Pugs are NOT picky eaters and will eat anything you put in front of them. However, giving popcorn to dogs is a BIG NO NO!
Other Articles Relating to What Not to Feed Your Pug:
Is Popcorn Dangerous for Dogs?
Popcorn and popcorn kernels can cause a lot of damage in dogs. Not only can the kernels get stuck in their teeth which will eventually lead to dental decay or gum disease.
The kernels are NOT easy for your pup to digest. Plus, there’s always a possibility of your adult Pug or puppy to choke on this food.
Oil and butter can cause your Pug to suffer from weight gain, this breed is already prone to obesity. Pugs are a brachycephalic breed, and an overweight Pug can suffer from heart disease, kidney failure, breathing problems, or even arthritis.
Foods that are high in salt and sugars are not safe for dogs. This is why it’s important to let your adult Pug and Puppy get most of their nutrients from a well-balanced diet from the right dog and puppy food. Check out these dog foods designed for overweight dogs.
Is Popcorn Healthy or Toxic for Dogs?
Popcorn is not toxic for Pugs, only when people put spices, flavors, salt, cheese, and etc on air-popped popcorn or microwave popcorn, is when it becomes a toxic treat.
The best part is that popcorn air-popped popcorn does not contain a ton of calories.
This is why it makes a great treat for humans that are trying to lose weight.
Popped corn kernels contain several minerals that are vital to canine nutrition such as phosphorous, magnesium, manganese, zinc, fiber, and some vitamins. You can check out the nutritional value of air popped popcorn.
What Vegetables/Fruits Can Pugs Eat?
There’s nothing wrong with feeding your Pug some fruits and vegetables. In fact, some of them are great for dogs and here’s a list of some of the things you can feel good about feeding them:
- Green Beans
- Pumpkin
- Apples
- Watermelon
- Bananas
- Carrots
- Brussel Sprouts
- Strawberries
Fruits and Vegetables To Avoid Feeding Your Pug
Here is a list of some of the fruits and vegetables you should never feed your canine friend.
- Macadamia Nuts
- Onions (dogs should never eat onions)
- Grapes (Never feed a dog grapes)
- Garlic
- Raw Potatoes
- Grapes
Feeding Your Pug Popcorn: Possible Side Effects
If you’ve fed your Pug a kernel or two of air-popped popcorn, there’s a chance that you won’t see any side effects. However, if they an entire bucket of salted, buttered popcorn or kettle corn, there’s a good chance they will experience an upset stomach.
Some dogs may vomit or suffer from diarrhea. There’s a good chance that they will be okay, but you will need to monitor them.
The best thing to do is to contact your veterinarian to let them know how much popcorn your dog ate. They will be able to tell you whether or not it is a dangerous amount and whether or not you need to take your dog into the office immediately.
If you don’t have a vet, then you’ll want to contact the Animal Poisoning Control Center (ASPCA) at 888 426-4435.
What If My Pug Chokes On A Kernel?
It’s not impossible for your best friend to choke on a kernel. This video will show you how to administer first aid to your pet
Popcorn for Dogs Recipe
As I mentioned above, Pugs love eating. There’s no reason why you can’t make some Pupcorn dog treats, that resemble popcorn but are a much healthier option.
Your Pug will love this popcorn chicken recipe I found online. Before you prepare it, make sure that your Pug is not allergic to any of the ingredients.
I found this popcorn recipe for dogs on the Dog Babe website. Here is a list of the ingredients you’ll need to prepare it:
- 1/2 pound of boneless chicken, fish, or salmon
- One whole egg
- Corn crumbs
- Breadcrumbs
- Powdered peppermint
- Traces of Tumeric
This is a healthy snack for your pup and they’ll love you for it. You can check out the entire recipe and the benefits of feeding your dog popcorn chicken by visiting this website.
Bottom Line Is Popcorn Good for Pugs?
The short answer is NO, popcorn is not good for dogs. There’s nothing wrong with giving your dog some human food for an occasional treat.
However, there are so many other healthy and beneficial treats for your Pug.
I personally, wouldn’t risk giving my Pug some popcorn, regardless of what type it is. Instead, buy them some great treats that they’ll love and provide them with the proper nutrients they require.
References and Further Reading
AKC – American Dog Kennel – Can Dogs Eat Popcorn?
Rover – The Dog People – 9 Surprisingly Dangerous Foods for Dogs