Can Dogs Eat Peas? Are Peas Good For Dogs?
Pets, especially dogs, are just as much a part of the family as anyone else. And if humans can eat peas then it would stand to reason that our faithful companions could too. But before you go filling up your dog’s water bowl with fresh shelled pea pods or throwing them into his food dish thinking he will love this addition, it is important to understand the potential health benefits or risks involved with feeding your dog peas.
Can Dogs Eat Peas?
According to the AVMA (American Veterinary Medicinal Association), yes dogs can eat peas in moderation without any major issues. Peas can be rich in vitamin C, a great source of fiber, and provide other vitamins and minerals for your pup! But it is important to note that the high levels of sugar found in some varieties might cause gastric distress if not consumed responsibly.
Health Benefits of Feeding Your Dog Peas
Peas contain a host of health benefits for your canine companion: They're high in vitamin A and potassium; the B vitamins help with energy and digestion. Peas have tons of fiber too!
When it comes to how much difference these little green balls can make on our pup's diet, they can improve their skin condition as well as regulate weight gain by cutting down caloric intake while making sure essential nutrients like protein remain available.
Wild Earth includes peas in our dog food which can help to provide Vitamin A, Vitamin B, as well as potassium to your dog's diet. You can read more about the benefit this has on our dog food by reading the review by Honest Brand Reviews.
Risks Involved With Feeding Dogs Peas
Many of you know how much your dogs love to eat peas. However, if they have kidney problems, it is best that no peas be given as a snack or part of their meal because these little green beauties contain uric acid which can lead to the production and accumulation of harmful stones in the kidneys.
When introducing your dog to peas or any type of new food it is important to speak with your veterinarian as they will have a better understanding of the current health of your dog. If you decide to feed your dog peas it is best to only do so in moderation and to monitor them for any signs of discomfort or allergies.
How to Safely Feed Peas To Dogs
It is important that you only feed fresh or frozen peas to your dog and not peas from a can. Frozen peas are better because they don't have extra sodium added like the ones in cans do. Secondly, be careful when it comes to feeding pea pods as a canine may find them dangerous if eaten whole due the possibility of them being a choking hazard for dogs. Finally, remember never give any kind of beans (including green) to pets suffering from matters related with urinary tract health such as bladder stones or UTI's: this is where purine can lead too sharp pain after urinating which will cause more harm than good.
Can Dogs Have Peas? Final Verdict
Yes dogs can have peas but it is best if they are only given peas in moderation and with the consent of your vet. Your vet will have a better understanding of the health of your dog and will be able to provide recommendations for healthy snacks for your dog. Peas and other veggies can provide a variety of additional vitamins and minerals to the diet of your dog but they should be used as occasional snacks in addition to a healthy dog food.
