Can dogs eat kidney beans? Kidney beans, which are blood-red kidney-shaped legumes, are enriched with proteins. They are an excellent addition to the human diet. But what about your canine companion?
Can dogs eat kidney beans? Are they safe for them? Do canines get any nutritional benefits from the beans? Boiled, canned, or raw, what type of beans are the best choice for dogs?
While making a lovely kidney beans dinner, all these questions might be hitting your mind. Right? It’s time to address all of them. So, here we go.
Can Dogs Eat Kidney Beans?–The Answer
Well! The short answer is yes. Yes, Dogs can eat kidney beans but in small amounts. They are rich in plant-based proteins. Many dog foods also contain small kidney beans to enhance their protein content.
Though dogs are not obligate carnivores like felines, they still need animal proteins in their diet. So, giving them a daily dose of kidney beans as a protein source is not a healthy option. It can put your canine’s intestine in trouble.
Nutritional Benefits Of Kidney Beans To Dogs
Now that you know the answer to the question, “Can dogs eat kidney beans?” The next equally important question is what benefits these beans hold for dogs. Let’s check it out.
As already stated, kidney beans are enriched with plant-based proteins. They contain 2-4 times more protein than grains. Apart from protein, they hold several nutrients too. What are those nutrients? Let’s uncover it.
Antioxidants
Kidney beans contain vitamin C and vitamin A. Both are powerful antioxidants. They fight against the free radicals inside the canines’ bodies and prevent the cell from oxidative damage.
They boost the pup’s immune system and also fight against some cancer cells. Moreover, these antioxidants are good for older dogs, too, as they improve their cognitive ability and prevent them from dementia.
Minerals
Kidney beans contain many minerals like magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, manganese, etc. that help your dogs grow. They keep your pups’ metabolism normal.
Vitamin K
The vitamin K present in kidney beans helps in blood clotting. It is important for the pups’ arteries because it prevents calcium deposition in arteries.
Did you Know?
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Dietary fiber
An adequate amount of dietary fiber is good for canines’ digestive health. It keeps bowel movement smooth and prevents your puppy from constipation.
Folate
Folate is also known as vitamin B9. It helps produce red blood cells and hence aids in preventing anemia in pups.
A small number of calories
Kidney beans are low in calories. They are an ideal choice for diabetic or obese dogs.
Due to all these benefits, experts also recommend healthy kidney beans for dogs but only properly cooked ones in moderate amounts.
How To Serve Kidney Beans To Dogs?
Kidney beans are a good snack for your pup. Here is how you can serve them to your four-pawed furry friend.
First, you need to wash them well. Soak them overnight in water. After that, cook them. Boiling is the best option. Do not add salt, any other spices, or herbs. They can disturb your canine’s stomach.
Once cooked properly, take them out on a plate. Let them cool. Mash them well so that your dog can easily chew. Serve by mixing with dog food or other healthy treats like vegetables. You can also serve them alone as a light snack.
Can Dogs Eat Kidney Beans?–The Bad Side
Properly cooked kidney beans are perfect for canine consumption. They become harmful if eaten in excess. If your dog overeats kidney beans, he will suffer from diarrhea, vomiting, gas, stomach pain, and other digestive issues.
The raw form of these beans contains lectin. It is a protein that is toxic to dogs. It blocks the absorption of nutrients in the gut and causes vomiting, diarrhea, gassiness, and stomach pain in canines.
Moreover, it also causes the canines’ red blood cells to clump together, which blocks the arteries and increases the risk of heart disease. Therefore, you should feed your puppy with well-cooked beans.
Can Dogs Eat Kidney Beans?–The Final Verdict
The answer is yes. Dogs can eat kidney beans but only in moderate amounts. They are enriched with proteins and contain many other nutrients. Still, overeating causes excessive drooling, gas, stomach pain, and other gastrointestinal issues.
Similarly, raw kidney beans are also toxic to dogs. They contain lectin, which can clump your pup’s red blood cells. Therefore, give your pup only properly cooked beans, without seasonings or spices, in adequate amounts.
