Are you looking to feed a new treat to your dog? Can dogs eat corn cob is a question that comes to mind. Corn cobs are good because they contain proteins, minerals, and essential vitamins but also cause some health problems for dogs.
If you want to give your dog corn cobs you will have to learn this article. In this article, you will learn the risks and benefits of corn cobs for dogs. You will also learn what are the alternatives of corn cobs for dogs.
Now, let’s learn about corn cobs for dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Corn Cob?
No, dogs should not eat corn cobs. They pose a choking hazard and can cause intestinal blockages.
- What Are Corn Cobs?
- Can Dogs Eat Corn Cob?
- Benefits of Corn Cobs for Dogs
- Risks of Corn Cobs for Dogs
- Alternative of Corn Cobs for Dogs
- Table of nutritional value of corn cobs
- can dogs eat corn cob husks
- can dogs eat corn cobs raw
- can dogs eat corn cobs cooked
- can puppies eat corn cobs
- How to safely feed corn cobs to dogs?
- What should I do if my dog eats corn cobs?
What Are Corn Cobs?
Corn cobs are the hard cores of the corn cores of maize. It is a sweet type of corn that is harvested while the kernels are soft and underdeveloped. They are composed of outer layers, soft, inner tissue, hard, joint-like structures.
Corn cobs are of woody texture. They are in the colour of yellow or brown. Corn cobs are of cylindrical shape and are usually 6-12 inches long.
Ingredients of Corn cobs
The ingredients of corn cobs are:
- Cellulose
- Hemicellulose
- Lignin
- Proteins
- Fat
- Carbohydrates
- Fiber
Corn cobs also include many micronutrients and other compounds that are good for dogs. But it also contains some toxic compounds that are not good for dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Corn Cob?
Yes, dogs can eat corn cobs. Corn cobs are hard in texture that are difficult for dogs to digest and it can get stuck in the throat. It can cause intestinal blockage, choking hazard, etc.
Benefits of Corn Cobs for Dogs
There are some benefits of corn cobs for dogs:
- Carbohydrate source: Carbohydrate in corn cobs provides energy.
- Fiber content: The fiber content helps to support the health of digestion.
- Omega-6 fatty acids: Omega-6 fatty acids help to support skin and coat health.
- Antioxidants: Antioxidants like phenolic compounds and flavonoids help to reduce the oxidative stress.
Risks of Corn Cobs for Dogs
Here are some risks of corn cobs for dogs:
- Life-threatening risks: Corn cobs can cause severe life-threatening risks like intestinal blockages, choking hazards, and gastrointestinal perforation.
- Health complications: Corn cobs can cause health complications like infection, vomiting, diarrhoea, dehydration, abdominal pain, and blood in stool or vomit.
- Allergic reactions: Corn cobs can cause allergic reactions like itching, difficulty breathing, hives, and swelling.
Alternative of Corn Cobs for Dogs
Here are some safe and healthy alternative for dogs:
- Carrot sticks: Carrot sticks are good for dogs because they are rich in minerals, fiber, and vitamins.
- Sweet-potato chews: Sweet-potato chews are nutritious for dog’s health, and are easily digestible.
- Green beans: Green beans are crunchy snacks, and low in calories.
- Apple slices: Apple slices are good for dogs because they are a good source of fiber, and contain essential vitamins. Always remember to remove the seeds of the apple before giving it to your dogs.
- Pumpkin-based treats: Pumpkin based treats are good for dogs because they help to support digestive health.
Table of nutritional value of corn cobs
| Nutrient | Value (per 100g) | Impact |
| Energy | 125-150 | It supports brain function and nervous system health |
| Protein | 2-3 | It supports immune function |
| Fat | 1-2 | It is an essential fatty acids for skin, coat, and brain health |
| Carbohydrates | 25-30 | It supports digestive health |
| Fiber | 5-7 | It helps to maintain blood sugar levels |
| Moisture | 10-15 | It helps to support skin, coat, and joint health |
| Ash | 5-10 | It helps to support bone health and development |
| Vitamin\ Mineral | Value (per 100g) | Impact |
| Vitamin A | 10-20 | It supports immune system, skin and coat health, vision health, and reproductive health |
| Vitamin C | 2-5 | It supports immune system, antioxidant properties, and iron absorption |
| Calcium | 20-50 | It helps to support bone growth, and development |
| Phosphorus | 50-100 | It helps to support bone growth, and kidney functions |
| Potassium | 200-400 | It supports heart function, and muscle contractions |
| Magnesium | 20-50 | It helps to support nerve function and transmission |
| Iron | 1-2 | It supports immune system, brain function, and oxygen transport |
| Zinc | 1-2 | It supports protein synthesis, immune system, wound healing, skin and coat health |
can dogs eat corn cob husks
Yes, dogs can eat corn cob husks but it can cause risks. They are not very toxic but can cause health problems like choking hazards, intestinal blockages, and gastrointestinal upset. It’s better to choose husk-free corn cob.
can dogs eat corn cobs raw
Raw corn cobs are not good for dogs. They can cause digestive issues and choking hazards. If the dog eats a large piece of raw corn cob can cause issues like intestinal obstruction. It can also break or crack the teeth.
can dogs eat corn cobs cooked
Yes, dogs can eat corn cobs cooked. It is safe and healthy for dogs only when given in small amounts. Cooked corn cobs are soft and easy to chew. They can reduce the issue of choking hazard. Cooked corn cobs can also reduce the risk of intestinal blockages.
can puppies eat corn cobs
It’s better to avoid giving corn cobs to puppies. It is very toxic for puppies and causes issues like choking hazards, digestive issues, gastrointestinal upset, etc. There are also a lack of essential nutrients in corn cobs that are important for puppy growth.
How to safely feed corn cobs to dogs?
Corn cobs are not very toxic for dogs but can cause health issues. Raw and uncooked corn cobs are hard and cause issues like choking hazards, gastrointestinal upset, intestinal blockages, digestive issues, and teeth damage. If you want to safely feed corn cobs the best thing is to cook corn cobs. Cooked corn cobs can reduce the health risks. So, it’s best to cook corn cobs before giving it to your dogs.
What should I do if my dog eats corn cobs?
If a dog eats corn cobs in small amounts it is not very toxic. But if the dog eats corn cobs in excessive amounts it can cause health issues like choking hazards, gastrointestinal upset, intestinal blockages, etc. So, if the dog eats corn cobs consult it with your veterinarian.
Pros
Cons
Corn cobs are not toxic for dogs. They are good for dogs because they contain essential minerals, vitamins, and good sources of fiber that are good for dogs. But raw and uncooked corn cobs are not good for dogs because they can cause several health problems. Cooked corn cobs are good for dogs because they are easy for dogs to digest. Always consult with your veterinarian before giving something new to your dog.
