Can Dogs Eat Peas?

Your dog is understandably part of your family. Like most people, you want to feed your fur babies the best food you can. For some people, that equates to buying the best kibble they can afford. For others, it means either making your own dog food or simply giving them a plate from your meal. 

Regardless of which camp you land in, it’s essential to learn what foods your dogs can have safely and which ones are toxic to your animals. Today, we’re going to talk about peas and whether dogs can eat them or not. 

Benefits of Peas for Dogs

You may have noticed that many dog food brands include peas or chickpeas in the ingredient lists. Dogs can benefit from the fiber in the peas. Peas also have several vitamins and minerals packed into a small package. 

Those vitamins and minerals are tools for helping vision, immune systems, skin, digestion, nerves, the heart, and others. The peas are low in calories, and you can find them almost any time of the year. On a hot day, peas can aid in hydration for your fur baby. 

There are multiple varieties of peas available for you to try giving your dog. From the small, green sweet pea also known as an English pea to the chickpea, dogs love the sweetness of a pea, and they provide your pup with added nutrients. However, like anything else you feed your dog, you should check with your veterinarian before you allow your fur baby to eat peas. Continue reading to learn about the risks of feeding your pup peas. 

Warnings About Letting Your Dogs Have Peas

Feeding your dog peas doesn’t come without risks. As with anything, you must consider overall health, allergies, and safety before adding something new to your dog’s diet. Avoid feeding your dogs peas if they struggle with kidney problems. Peas have purines inside, and purines can lead to kidney issues because the purine produces uric acid, which can cause kidney stones and other health problems. 

Some dogs can have peas with no problems. It doesn’t matter the size or whether they are shelled or not. Other dogs, though, have problems swallowing the pods or larger peas. Which then creates a choking hazard for the dogs. 

Feeding Peas to Your Dog

Peas are generally sweet. So, your dog is likely to love them. They are also low calorie, so you can put them on top of kibble or give them as a once in a while treat just because they want a treat. 

Canned peas aren’t a good option. They likely contain added sodium or preservatives. However, frozen peas typically don’t have added salt (be sure to read the label). Cook the peas and puree them, offering a spoonful or two for a treat or as a topping for other food. 

Can Dogs Eat Peas? What About Chickpeas? 

Dogs can have several varieties of peas. However, canned peas should be avoided due to the sodium content. Frozen peas are good for dogs as long as peas are the only ingredient in the ingredients list. Black-eyed peas are safe for dogs, but snap peas should be avoided. 

Chickpeas and split peas are good sources of protein and carbohydrates for dogs. However, there are some studies that link them to canine dilated cardiomyopathy. For this reason, you should consult your vet before feeding chickpeas or split peas to your dog. 

Can Dogs Have These Other Vegetables?

We decided to investigate to see if dogs can have other vegetables in their diets. These are our findings. Asparagus is not recommended. Onions, garlic, and spicy peppers are to be avoided at all costs.  However, bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, lettuce, cucumbers, cauliflower, celery, and pickles are okay to give your dog as they have health benefits for your furry friend. 

Can Dogs Eat These Fruits?

Fruits are another food group that can sometimes be safe for dogs and sometimes isn’t. We compiled this list of fruits as a way of letting you know which ones you can try with your pet. 

Bananas, dates, cantaloupe, and other melons are okay without their rind and seeds, but only occasionally because they are high in sugar. Oranges, kiwi, and even apples are good sources of vitamin C, but some dogs don’t like the citrus in oranges. Blueberries are an excellent treat that can be served fresh or frozen. Papaya is okay as long as you have carefully removed the seeds. Papaya seeds, like cherries contain cyanide which is poisonous for your pet. 

Can Dogs Have Seafood?

Many of us enjoy seafood in our diets. It’s natural to wonder if it’s safe for our dogs to eat. Seafood is like any other food; it’s wise to consult your veterinarian before trying it. 

Salmon is found in several pre-packaged dog foods with good reason; it’s full of Omega 3s which boost immunity and help create a shiny coat. Canned tuna is also okay for your furry friend as long as you choose tuna packed in water rather than oil. Seaweed is something you only want to give your dogs as pre-packaged snacks but not raw.

As for shellfish, shrimp is okay once in a while. Crab can cause an allergic reaction, so you must watch carefully if you choose to feed your dog crab. Lobster can be given to your dog, but only with vet approval, and only with a simple preparation. 

Can Dogs Have Beans?

Do you eat a lot of beans? If so, you are likely wondering if your dog can eat beans. The beans we researched seem to be okay in moderation, but they have the potential of causing gas. 

Beans such as limas, pintos, and black beans are nutritionally sound, but they cause gas. Garbanzo beans, also known as chickpeas, have come to be included in many pre-packaged dog food products. They should be given in a form that is as close to the natural form as possible. Green beans are good for dogs as long as they aren’t seasoned with something toxic; they are a great source of iron, calcium, and several other vitamins. 

Can Dogs Eat Dry Fruit and Nuts? 

Are you wondering if your dog can eat dry fruit and nuts? That seems to be a yes and no prospect. Some nuts are okay, and some aren’t. 

Almonds and raisins are not recommended for dogs. Almonds are difficult for them to digest, and raisins (as well as the grapes that create them) can cause kidney damage. Cashews are usually safe and non-toxic. Pistachios are good for their brain function and growth. 

The Takeaway

Do you want to make your own dog food? Or are you just interested in feeding your dog the same foods you eat? Either way, it’s essential to know what you can safely give them. You don’t want to choose food that will make your dog sick. 

Peas are a good treat for your dogs. However, you should avoid giving your dog canned peas or other canned vegetables due to sodium and preservative levels. Use moderation when choosing to feed your dog table foods and consult your veterinarian first. 

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