Can Dogs Eat Quinoa

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Quinoa can be a lifesaver for those of us allergic to gluten. If you are a part of that group, you probably already know how healthy and beneficial quinoa is. However, many dog owners want to know the answer to the question, “Can dogs eat quinoa?” The best answer to that question is - Yes. However, there are a few things you should know before you decide to freely include it in your dog’s diet.

Why is quinoa good for dogs?

There are many reasons dogs could benefit from quinoa. In fact, it is included in the recipes of many dry dog foods, and for a good reason. This edible seed is considered a superfood, and it is included in the human diet for more than 4.000 years. Some of the best things quinoa can offer our dogs is;

• Amino acids
• Vitamin E
• Fiber
• Potassium
• Iron
• Calcium
• Phosphorus
• Zinc
• Cooper
• Manganese
• Thiamin

As you can see, the list of healthy nutrients seems to be endless, and your dog will really benefit if you include this seed in their diet. Just make sure you know how much quinoa you include.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Before you include anything new in your dog’s diet, you should talk to your vet. They know your dog’s physical health and allergies. It would be best to make sure your vet gives you the green light.

Can it be bad for dogs?

There is one potential reason quinoa could be bad for dogs - saponin. That is a chemical found in this plant. It uses it as a way of insect protection. It is usually not too disruptive to the dog’s digestive system. Still, some dogs seem to be more affected by it. Luckily, you can avoid that by simply thoroughly washing the quinoa before cooking.

Another possible health concern is for dogs with arthritis. This seed contains oxalates, and some dogs simply cannot handle them. This chemical can cause inflammation, so you should avoid giving it to a dog with inflamed joints.

IMPORTANT NOTICE: Many recipes that include quinoa require seasoning. If you decide to give this seed to your dog, do not include seasoning, especially too much salt, onions, garlic, or pepper.

How to include quinoa in the dog’s diet?

The best and safest way to include quinoa into your dog’s diet is by mixing it with their food. Make sure you rinse it to remove any traces of saponin. Cook it afterward, and let it cool down. You can mix about a teaspoon of quinoa into your dog’s usual kibble. Larger breeds like the German Shepherd or Doberman can get a teaspoon and a half. Make sure not to overdo it. The key to including new things in your dog’s diet is portion control.

World Dog Finder team