If you’ve ever wondered are peas good for dogs as a way to mix up their diet, add some vegetable based protein and give your dog some of the same health and vitamin benefits that peas offer for humans, the answer is yes.
Yes, peas are good for dogs.
Dogs can eat peas and plenty of dogs do eat peas as part of a mixed, balanced diet that includes foods beyond the traditional dog diet of just meat.
Green peas are a source of
- vitamin K
- vitamin A
- vitamin Bs
Let us provide you with an insight in to whether adding some green peas to your own dog's diet might be something worth considering.
Are there benefits of feeding peas to dogs?
Dogs are generally scavenger feeders in the wild.
That means they’ll eat just about anything and in many cases, they’ll thrive on whatever food is easiest for them to obtain.
If dogs could eat peas in the wild, they’d do it. Easy peasy pickings for unfussy canines. A free source of protein would not be turned down by one of nature's great survivors.
Peas have become more popular, believe it or not, with strength and fitness enthusiasts. People who care a lot (well, a lot more than the average person) about their physical health have been increasingly opting for pea protein. This is also a popular choice for people who are vegetarian or vegan.
What’s the deal with pea protein?
Well, according to the protein professionals, peas pack a significant amount of health benefits including:
- Protein – contributes to the growth in muscle mass, and maintenance of normal bones.
- Vitamin K – contributes to normal blood clotting and the maintenance of normal bones.
- Vitamin B6 – contributes to normal energy yielding metabolism, normal psychological function, normal red blood cell formation, and normal protein and glycogen metabolism.
- Riboflavin – contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue as well as the normal functioning of the nervous system, and maintenance of normal skin and vision.
- Magnesium – contributes to normal protein synthesis, maintenance of normal teeth and plays a role in the process of cell division.
Are green peas good for dogs?
In this article we’re talking specifically about green peas for dogs.
As with all dog nutrition, you need to test and test carefully.
Dog food allergies are real.
Warning about peas and dogs
According to the AKC, you need to take the following precautions if you’re thinking of including peas in your dog’s diet:
Garden peas, of course, must always be shelled. But be cautious with pods, because they can get stuck in your dog’s throat and cause choking. And as with any new food, watch for adverse reactions, such as diarrhea or vomiting.
Peas aren’t good for dogs who have kidney issues because they contain purines that can be aggravating to the dog’s kidneys.
As humans who eat peas will know, never feed too many peas to a dog.
Peas are a vegetable and for dogs who eat a little too many peas they can suffer from digestive problems such as gas.
So, there you go. Peas can be good for dogs in small doses. Used as part of a balanced diet, peas offer a nutritious source of low cost, natural protein and fibre.
- Introduce carefully.
- Monitor the results.
Read more: Why and when should you consider switching your dog's diet?
Important: Always speak with your vet or a canine nutrition professional before making any big changes to your dog’s diet.
