We all know beans are a great source of plant-based protein for humans, but can our dogs enjoy them too? Briefly, yes, dogs can eat beans, however, there are some concerns about how good beans really are for dogs, and if they may even be bad for them. That said, different types of beans come with their own pros and cons.
The problem is a bit more than that, beans are a little hard for dogs to digest and can definitely cause farting. Some beans also have antinutrients that may not be good for dogs.
According to Dr. Luciana Reis, DVM, in one study, “Fava bean safety in dogs has been scarcely explored and is not approved as a feed ingredient for pet food by the American Association of Feed Control Organization (AAFCO) yet due to concerns about potential toxicity from antinutritional factors.”
What this means is that beans, legumes and pulses contain compounds such as saponins, enzyme inhibitors, phytic acid, tannins, and lectins. These are called “antinutrients” because they can interfere with the dog’s ability to absorb many essential nutrients, such as taurine. But this doesn’t mean dogs can’t eat any beans, so let’s break it down.
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Content:
- Can Dogs Eat Green Beans
- Can Dogs Eat Black Beans
- Can Dogs Eat Lima Beans
- Can Dogs Eat Pinto Beans
- Can Dogs Eat Kidney Beans
- Conclusion
Can Dogs Eat Green Beans
Many owners give their dogs green beans as a low-calorie snack. They’re full of vitamins like A, C, and K, along with fiber and minerals. It’s pretty common to use green beans to help their dogs feel full without the extra calories. And, they’re especially great for pups who need to lose a little weight.
That being said, please remember, you shouldn’t rely on green beans for protein.
As one Reddit user says about whether you can feed your dog beans, "... it's not a 'good protein source' for them. Dogs need different nutrition from us. Feed them a vet-recommended diet."
So, while green beans can be a very occasional healthy snack, they shouldn’t be a major part of a dog’s diet.
If you want to keep an eye on your dog for signs of tummy troubles after they eat beans, consider using the Petcube Cam while you’re away.
Can Dogs Eat Black Beans
Black beans are not a normal part of the canine diet. It’s true that they contain fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. But, like with most legumes, too many beans can cause gas or digestive issues for your pup. Stick to small very amounts only, and be sure the beans are cooked and plain with no salt, seasonings, or added ingredients.
Can Dogs Eat Lima Beans
Lima beans, also known as butter beans, are generally okay for dogs in small amounts and occasionally. These beans are about 25% protein and 40% starch. But here’s the thing: lima beans can contain antinutritional factors like enzyme inhibitors that can prevent the dog from absorbing the protein. Uncooked, they also have toxic compounds called cyanogenic glycosides.
So, if you’re giving your dog lima beans, make sure they’re well-cooked and served in small amounts.
Remember that beans are quite hard on a dog’s digestive system, so when in doubt, rather opt for something like pumpkin POPs to soothe their tummies.
Can Dogs Eat Pinto Beans
Pinto beans are generally okay for dogs in small amounts, although you may have to deal with quite a bit of flatulence. Just like with the other beans, be sure they’re cooked properly and served plain. Also, do not use any canned pinto beans, as they often contain salt and other additives that aren’t good for dogs.
One thing to keep in mind with any bean, including pintos, is the potential for gas or digestive upset if your dog eats too many. Moderation is key.
Can Dogs Eat Kidney Beans
Kidney beans can be a good source of protein, fiber, and antioxidants for your humans, but there’s a catch when it comes to dogs. Raw or undercooked kidney beans contain a toxin called phytohemagglutinin, which can cause nausea, vomiting, or even more serious issues if your dog eats it.
To safely serve kidney beans to your dog, make sure they’re fully cooked and plain and skip any canned versions with added salt or preservatives.
Conclusion
So, while there’s no problem with giving your dog some green beans now and then as a healthy snack, the current research on beans in a dog’s diet is usually only short term tests. This means we don’t know what kind of long-term effects they may have and if they are really good for dogs. For the most part, since we all know beans can cause bloating and gas, it’s better to stick with other healthy treat options for dogs.