Maybe. It depends on the variety. Though legumes are a great source of fiber and protein, and some varieties contain beneficial vitamins and minerals, they shouldn’t be used as a replacement for animal protein. Nor should they be served in large quantities. Most importantly, be sure you know which legumes are safe to eat.
Healthy Legumes
- Black beans
- Butter beans, or lima beans
- Chickpeas
- Green beans, or string beans
- Kidney beans
- Pinto beans
- Lentils
Legumes to Avoid
Tips for Serving Legumes Safely
If you do decide to incorporate legumes into your dog’s diet, be sure to never use raw or canned beans. Raw beans can be difficult for your dog to digest, or may contain toxins that are neutralized during the cooking process. Canned beans contain preservatives that are too taxing on your dog’s system and undermine health benefits of legumes. It’s best to serve healthy legumes in moderation, and to start with dried beans, soak them overnight, then cook them without seasonings.
For More Information
We offer a number of articles on which foods are safe or unsafe for your dog to eat, from breads and grains to meats and beverages.
The information provided in this article is not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
