Corn?

What to watch out for

Plain corn kernels are not toxic to dogs. The AKC says kernels cut off the cob are safe in small amounts as an occasional treat, and PetMD agrees that raw and cooked corn are both safe in small portions, with cooked corn easier to digest. Many commercial dog foods and treats also contain corn.

The corn cob is the real hazard. PetMD warns that cobs can cause choking or lead to an intestinal blockage, especially in smaller dogs, and the AKC cautions that dogs may swallow pieces or the whole cob, so cobs should never be shared. A blockage is an emergency that often needs surgery.

Corn should be completely plain. The AKC says butter, salt and seasonings add unnecessary fat and sodium that may upset your dog's stomach, and PetMD adds that butter can lead to pancreatitis and obesity and too much salt can cause salt poisoning.

When introducing corn, watch for signs of allergy or digestive upset, and stop feeding it if you notice any.

What to give instead

Cut the kernels off the cob with a knife, and cook or steam them plain. Offer a small portion as a topper or treat, keeping all treats under 10% of daily calories.

Throw cobs away where your dog cannot reach them, including from the bin and compost. Do not give dogs a cob to chew. Skip corn that is buttered, salted or seasoned.

If your dog already ate it

If your dog ate a corn cob or a piece of one, call your vet right away, even if your dog seems fine, since cobs can cause an intestinal blockage.

Watch for repeated vomiting, loss of appetite, belly pain or bloating, lethargy, straining or no stools, or diarrhea. These are signs for urgent veterinary care. You can also call ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435 / Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661 (US; fees may apply). Outside the US, call your local emergency vet. Do not try to make your dog vomit at home.