Can dogs eat quinoa? Yes, quinoa is an edible seed found as a chief ingredient in some high-quality kibble (dry dog food). Quinoa’s strong nutritional profile makes it a healthy alternative to corn, soy, and wheat starches used to prepare kibble. This article will address the benefits of quinoa for dogs and some key points any pet owner should be aware of.
Table of Contents
What is Quinoa?
Quinoa is a super grainy snack that can replace rice and grains. It is a gluten-free, whole-grain carbohydrate that also appears to be a whole protein, meaning it includes the nine essential amino acids, according to the Whole Grains Council.
Many are curious if quinoa is a grain. The answer is that quinoa is a seed from the Chenopodium quinoa plant. As a result, it isn’t a grain. Oats and barley are examples of whole grains (or cereal grains) described as seeds from grasses rather than plants.
Nutritional Benefits of Quinoa
Quinoa is calorie-dense with only 100 grams containing 372 calories. Moreover, these are good calories as quinoa contains riboflavin, thiamin, niacin, iron, protein, and calcium. It also contains healthy fats and carbohydrates, which dogs need.
Quinoa is a gluten-free superfood. It also contains several essential amino acids not found in many other foods. If your veterinarian has suggested a high-protein/high-complex-carbohydrate diet for your pets, inquire into using quinoa in their meals.
The following are benefits of quinoa for dogs. :
Full of Nutrients (incl. lots of Vitamin B12)
Powerful Antioxidants
Possesses Healing Properties
Enhances Cardiovascular Systems
Helps Combat Inflammation
Helps Prevent Heart Disease
Helps Prevent certain types of Cancers
Lower Risk of Diabetes
Risks of Quinoa
Although quinoa is not poisonous to dogs, it is not suitable for all dogs. Keep an eye out for the following signs:
Drooling
Loss of Appetite
Vomiting
One of the biggest reasons you should keep an eye on your dog while choosing quinoa is that saponin, a natural chemical found in quinoa. The quinoa plant releases saponin to shield itself from predators, linked to gastrointestinal inflammation in humans and pets. The amount of saponin present in quinoa is usually insufficient to cause any health issues in humans. However, the digestive tracts of dogs may be more susceptible to saponin than those of humans. If saponin is a problem, wash the quinoa before cooking it. Most of it should be removed, making it easier on your dog’s stomach. If your dog has a sensitive stomach in general, quinoa may be difficult for them to digest. If you suspect this is the case, consult your veterinarian before feeding them any quinoa.
Are Quinoa Seeds Safe for Dogs?
Quinoa seed is edible and is safe for dogs to have but not in its raw form. It should be cooked at all times. Even though quinoa seed is commonly a healthy meal for dogs, some dogs might have trouble digesting it.
Can Puppies Have Quinoa?
Quinoa is suitable for puppies, but only in tiny amounts. Since we all know the puppy’s stomachs are sensitive, you must be very careful about the amount of food you feed them, or they might undergo an upset stomach.
Ways to Add Quinoa to Dog’s Diet
Start with a small amount of quinoa and gradually raise it as your dog becomes used to the new food.
If you want to add quinoa to your dog’s diet, make sure you’re not just giving it to them off your plate. Quinoa is usually flavored with oils, salt, and spices such as garlic or onion when cooked for human consumption. Garlic and onions, all of which are poisonous to dogs, can make the dog sick.
How To Serve Quinoa to Your Dog?
To cook quinoa for your dog, first, give it a thorough rinse. After that, cook it in liquid (the ratio is 1 part quinoa and two liquid parts). For a taste boost, when it comes to the liquid, choose your preferred dog-friendly broth made from bones or simply some simmered vegetables.
Remove the quinoa from the heat until the liquid has evaporated. Allow cooling after fluffing it with a fork. It would be best if you served it warm to your dog. Make sure it isn’t too hot. Serve it with dog-friendly fruits and vegetables, wet or dry fish.
Conclusion
Like any new food, you’ll need to gradually include quinoa in your dogs’ food to avoid upsetting their abdomens. Oversee any unfavorable results and add more to your dog’s diet over 5-7 days until you’ve reached an optimal course for your dog’s size and activity level. Do not stuff your dog as it can cause them to gain weight or nutritional irregularities. If you have inquiries about quinoa quantities your dog can have in the context of their particular diet, consult your vet immediately.
