Can Dogs Eat Kidney Beans? Nutrition Facts & Safety Guide

Updated on Feb 4, 2024

You may be wondering if your dog can be allowed to eat kidney beans. Perhaps you bought canned kidney beans and as you were preparing them for dinner, you thought about giving your dog some too. The short answer is yes, dogs can eat kidney beans but you’ll need to read on to find out when you can feed kidney beans to your dog and precautions to take.

Can Dogs Eat Kidney Beans?

Yes, dogs can eat kidney beans. In fact, dogs can eat legumes and reap the nutritional benefits they provide. Kidney beans are a source of protein and fiber and are rich in vitamins and minerals such as folate and iron.

Many people mix cooked kidney beans in with their dog’s food to add extra protein and fiber, but allow the dry food to do the work of keeping the teeth clean.

When Are Kidney Beans Bad for Dogs?

Do not feed your dog raw kidney beans because they contain a toxin called Phytohemagglutinin that is harmful if consumed and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Of course, it would also be difficult for your dog to eat a raw kidney bean because they are hard and nonpalatable.

Keep in mind that kidney beans may cause gassiness in your dog if fed in high amounts. It is ideal to incorporate them with other ingredients so you do not overfeed this ingredient. If you are going to use kidney beans, then it is best to cook your own instead of using canned beans, which can contain preservatives and added salt.

Essentially, beans are food for humans, so they should be limited in your dog’s diet and fed in moderation. Dogs can live on a vegetarian diet, though some say that a dog’s main source of protein should come from quality meat sources.

When Are Kidney Beans Good for Dogs?

If your dog suffers from digestive issues, kidney beans may help. Kidney beans are antioxidant-rich food that helps remove free radicals from the body and strengthen the immune system. Due to the amount of insoluble fiber they contain, they can help with relieving constipation and adding bulk to your dog’s stool. They can cleanse the digestive tract by removing toxins that can cause illness and disease.

Kidney beans are also great at improving blood sugar because they are a slow-release carb, making them effective at maintaining blood sugar levels. Speak to your veterinarian before feeding kidney beans to your dog with diabetes.

If your dog has some issues with being overweight, kidney beans will help your dog feel fuller for longer due to the high fiber content. Also, they are lower in calories and provide a high amount of protein, which makes them a great option for weight control.

Puppies and Kidney Beans

Puppies can eat kidney beans, but only in moderate amounts, for the same reason that you shouldn’t feed too many kidney beans to adult dogs. Puppies require different amounts of nutrition, so feeding a puppy formula is ideal. However, feeding your pup cooked and non-flavored kidney beans won’t harm them if fed in small amounts.

How to Feed Kidney Beans to Your Dog

Kidney beans need to be soaked and cooked thoroughly before feeding to your dog. Don’t add salt or other ingredients that could cause an upset stomach. Dogs can’t tolerate spices and herbs like humans can.

Mash up the beans so they are easier to chew and digest, then either mix them with dry dog food to help keep your dog’s teeth clean or serve them separately as a treat.

Are Kidney Beans Safe for Dogs?

It’s a common fact that dogs process human food differently, so we need to be aware of what types of foods are appropriate to feed to our dogs. Remember that even if they can safely eat human food, it is wise to keep it in moderation or find a specific dog treat or food that includes the ingredient you want to provide to your dog.

There are many benefits to kidney beans, such as providing fiber, protein, and antioxidants. Make sure you never feed your dog raw kidney beans, and seek nutritional advice from those who study dog nutrition so you can keep your canine companion in optimal health.

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