Can Your Dog Eat Tortillas Safely? (Corn, Wheat, Flour)

There are many reasons why tortillas have become so popular in recent years. They can be used for a variety of dishes, they’re affordable, and they’re easy to store and prepare. Whether you like them with eggs and cheese or filled with your other favorite ingredients, tortillas are a versatile food everyone can enjoy. 

You may wonder if you should share this delicious treat with your dog. Since there are several different types of tortillas, you’ll find out what you need to know to decide if you want to give your dogs a bite. Let’s jump into the facts!

Corn Tortillas

Corn tortillas are a flatbread made from masa harina, a kind of corn flour. They are popular in many Latin American countries and are often used to make dishes such as tacos and enchiladas. Corn tortillas have fiber and magnesium and can be made with just a few simple ingredients. All it has is masa harina, water, and salt. 

Dogs need magnesium for strong bones and teeth. Fiber is vital for keeping their digestive system healthy. Since they are low in sodium, you can give them to your dog safely along with a balanced diet. It would be best to limit how often you feed this to them. As giving too much too often can cause rapid weight gain. This is because they have a lot of carbs. 

Flour Tortillas 

There are many debates on whether flour tortillas are healthy or not. Many people believe that because they are made out of flour, they are loaded with carbohydrates and thus are unsuitable for dogs. However, in moderation, many health benefits come from eating flour tortillas. For one, they are a good source of protein. 

They contain a small amount of essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron and magnesium. It comes down to your dog; if there are any health concerns, avoid giving them to them. These are higher in fat than corn tortillas and carbs. If your dog is trying to manage their weight, there are far healthier options than giving them a tortilla, even for a snack. A flour tortilla is not toxic for your dog. If your pup ate one, they should be fine as long as they don’t have gluten intolerance or celiac disease. If they do, they may have discomfort.

Wheat Tortillas 

Wheat tortillas are a good source of calcium and potassium, two essential nutrients for maintaining strong bones and muscles. They have low fat and calories, making them a great treat option for your dog. And because they’re made with whole wheat flour, they’re also a good source of fiber, which can help your dog feel full and satisfied. 

Of course, the few nutrients in wheat tortillas are not enough for your dog to eat daily. Your dog will not have any adverse effects from it if they are normal and healthy dogs. Dogs sensitive to gluten and wheat may not enjoy the consequences, so it’s best to avoid them with dogs with stomach troubles. 

Wheat Allergies

Dogs can be allergic to wheat just like humans. Your dog shouldn’t have flour or wheat tortillas if they have a wheat allergy. A wheat allergy in dogs is similar to the symptoms in humans, such as itchiness, runny nose, difficulty breathing, and swelling. A veterinarian can diagnose a wheat allergy through a blood, urine, or stool test. 

If your dog is diagnosed with a wheat allergy, the best thing you can do is to remove wheat from their diet. Many dog food brands offer grain-free options, and your vet can help you find the right food for your dog. With proper management, dogs with wheat allergies can live happy and healthy lives. 

Gluten Intolerance 

Dogs that are gluten intolerant should not have flour or wheat, but corn tortillas are okay in moderation. Though they share similar symptoms, wheat allergy and gluten intolerance are two very different conditions. Gluten intolerance is a digestive disorder triggered by ingesting gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. 

In contrast, dogs with gluten intolerance may be able to tolerate small amounts of gluten without experiencing any symptoms. Dogs with gluten intolerance may vomit or have diarrhea. So if your dog has these side effects after eating wheat products, it’s essential to consult a vet to test whether your pet has a gluten intolerance.

Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs 

Scottish terriers, Great Danes, and Irish setters are just a few dog breeds more likely to have a sensitive stomach. These dogs often do not handle grains well, and they may experience digestive issues if they eat food that contains wheat or corn. As a result, many owners of these breeds choose to feed their dog’s grain-free diets. While grain-free food is more expensive than traditional kibble, it can help keep your dog’s stomach healthy and prevent digestive problems. If you’re unsure about your dog’s dietary precautions or special needs, try searching here to learn more about them here. 

Conclusion 

Although there are better food options you can give your dog that offer much more benefits; tortillas will not harm your dog. Make sure that they eat a well-balanced diet, and you don’t treat them with tortillas too often to ensure they stay healthy. Feeding them too often can lead to weight gain and several other risks. 

However, dogs with sensitive tummies or certain allergies should steer clear of tortillas. Many dog owners want to make their pup feel special, and there are several better alternatives, like healthy treats! If you feel more adventurous, you can make your dog a healthy treat yourself! Your dog will feel like a king or queen. 

You may also like:

• Are Goldfish Crackers Safe for Dogs to Eat?
• Can Your Dog Eat Papaya? Risks and Benefits
• Can Dogs Eat Sweet Potatoes Safely? It Depends
• Can Dogs Eat Spinach Safely?
• Can Dogs Eat Crackers Safely? What Are The Risks?

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Brent Hofacker/Shutterstock.com