Can Dogs Eat Cornstarch? 5 Pros and Cons in 2024

Cornstarch is a flexible ingredient. It is a result of extraction from the endosperm of the corn kernels. Also, it is also used as a food thickener. When you have a dog in the house, he is constantly beside you while you are carrying a food item.

Hence, it is important for you to know “Can dogs eat cornstarch?”. The answer is Yes. Dogs can eat cornstarch but in a controlled quantity. In fact, cornstarch is moderately beneficial for your furry friend. But, a protein known as zein present in corn can cause allergies in dogs. 

Cornstarch is a common ingredient in your pooch’s treats and some of the famous commercial dog foods. In fact, the digestive system of your pooch breaks down the cornstarch into glucose. This form of sugar is safe for dogs. 

Nutritional value of cornstarch

Cornstarch is a great source of carbohydrates. However, it also includes minerals, fats, proteins, fibers, and vitamins. Consequently, this means that cornstarch has most of the antioxidants and benefits required for dogs. 

Also, as a parent, your goal must be to provide every essential nutrient to your pooch. It will ensure a healthy and strong lifestyle for your furry friend.

Here is the nutrients list that you will find in 128 grams of cornstarch.

• Carbohydrate content: 117g
• Dietary fibre: 1.2g
• Vitamins: 0.5mg
• Fat: 0.1g
• Water value: 10.7g
• Minerals: 42.8mg
• Protein: 0.3g
• Total calories: 488

Is cornstarch safe for a dog’s skin?

There is an extensive variety of products available for dematting canine fur. However, one of the most used and cheaper products for removing mats is cornstarch. We assume it allows to take away the moisture in the knot and permits the comb to have a better grip on the hair.

To try this, certainly divide the fur across the matted location. Hold the complete mat in your hand at the bottom of the mat near your canine’s skin. This is to save you from any risk of brush burn by making use of excessive pressure on the comb. Sprinkle a bit of cornstarch powder on the affected location and lightly work in with your fingers.

How do you use cornstarch on dogs?

Cornstarch for dog tear stains

Tear stains affect many dogs. But the most affected are the white-coated dogs. There are many tear-stain products available in the market. However, we would suggest you go for cornstarch.

You just have to mix cornstarch in 1 tablespoon of water. Make a consistency similar to toothpaste. However, many people also recommend using hydrogen peroxide. 

Apply the cornstarch paste under your pooch’s eyes. Let it dry before wiping it. It is essential to apply the paste carefully. If not, it can enter the eyes and cause irritation. 

Cornstarch as a shampoo

A dry bath is the best alternative to a full bath. However, there are many dry bath products available in the market that are quite expensive. But, cornstarch can be used as a dry shampoo for canines. It is very affordable and convenient to use. 

You can mix baking soda and cornstarch in equal amounts and scrub it on your fido. Cornstarch will help to absorb the dirt and oil and baking soda is best for deodorizing the dog. You can also add essential oil to add fragrance. 

Cornstarch for wounds or hotspots

If you find a hotspot on your pooch, apply cornstarch to the affected area 3 to 4 times a day. Cornstarch will help to dry the wound and mitigate the itching. Immediately, you will see results. The wound will start healing in a couple of days. 

Cornstarch is very good for small wounds or hot spots. In case of big wounds, you should consult a vet. 

Cornstarch for nail bleeding

Many times it happens that you cut the quick while clipping your pooch’s nails. This will result in severe bleeding(sometimes). Indeed it will cause pain to your fido and you as well. 

A home remedy for this is to use cornstarch to stop bleeding. Cornstarch clots the blood vessel. Hold your canine’s paw in one hand and put a small amount of cornstarch on the affected nail. Apply a bit of pressure to let the cornstarch go inside the nail. 

Can dogs be allergic to cornstarch?

Cornstarch provides your pooch energy. As corn is an uncommon allergen for dogs, its scratch is also less allergic. pet foods that contain cornstarch are highly preferred for dogs. 

Anything consuming in excess can create problems. Similarly, if your dog consumes cornstarch in high quantities, his sugar level can rise and can affect his heart. However, it is very healthy if used in ideal quantities. Most starches including cornstarch do not cause gas. 

Altogether, dogs are not allergic to cornstarch. You can feed it to your fido without a second thought. Just make sure you are not giving it raw. 

Can dogs eat corn tortillas?

Tortillas are made from flour or corn. Flour tortillas can make your pooch obese fast. Corn tortillas are low in carbs, fat, and calories as compared to flour tortillas. However, corn kernels can be used as treats. Hence, make sure you keep an eye on how much your fido is eating. 

Consequently, dogs are not able to process grains efficiently. Some canines may have cereal sensitivity or allergic reactions. Also, tortillas do not have that much nutrition count. Therefore, it is better to avoid them.

Corn tortillas are far better than flour tortillas. But it does not mean that corn tortillas are good to feed. Feeding tortillas in a moderate quantity is not harmful. 

Although tortillas are not dangerous, they do not provide any healthy nutrients to the dog. In fact, it has four toxic ingredients: amylases, emulsifiers, xylanase, and nixtamalization.

Is cornstarch safe for dogs to ingest?

Corn star is safe for dogs to ingest. On the other hand, corn is a bit allergic to many dogs. The protein called zein present in corn develops allergies in dogs.

The symptoms of dog allergies include –

• Hives
• Skin irritation
• Itching
• Licking of the paws
• Vomiting
• Abdominal cramps
• Obsessive licking
• Diarrhoea

Final words

In conclusion, I would say that cornstarch is not toxic for dogs. It is a much better alternative to wheat-based products. It is gluten-free. Therefore, it would not cause gastrointestinal problems for canines. 

Just make sure you feed it in baked foods. It is not that nutritious but is safe when given in small amounts. Also, your pooch may develop a corn allergy.

Make sure you know what your fido is eating. In case you see any allergic symptoms, rush to the vet immediately.

Hope you enjoyed today’s article. Stay connected for more interesting and informative pieces of writing. Thank you. 

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