Today, we are going to find out a common query, can dogs eat lentils? For humans, lentils have become a staple of our diets, not only providing added flavour but also vital nutrients.
Of course, human diets and dog diets differ significantly! So, if you’re wondering whether your dog can enjoy some lentils alongside you, the answer is yes! Lentils are safe for dogs to eat, providing nutrients and fibre to support overall health.
Find out more below and find out more common queries like can dogs eat green lentils? Discover whether different colours of lentils make any difference when it comes to feeding your furry friend.
Are lentils good for dogs?
We have some good news for dogs, as lentils are good for dogs as part of a balanced diet. Lentils can be enjoyed by dogs when cooked and only in moderation.
The nutritional content of lentils can benefit a dog’s health. These little pulses are an excellent source of fibre, protein, and iron. It is important to note that in order to ensure your dog is getting all the nutrients he needs, in the right ratios, 90% of their daily calories should come from Complete and Balanced dog food, tailored to the life-stage and life-style of your dog. 10% of their daily calories can then safely come from other sources.
Before feeding lentils to a dog, you should always soak and cook the pulses first. Once they have been cooked, all types of lentils, including red, brown, and yellow, are considered safe for dogs to enjoy. However, some dogs can experience side effects or allergies from eating lentils, with green lentils being the hardest to digest.
Are lentils good for dogs? Yes, but it is recommended that you consult with a veterinarian before adding any type of non-canine food into your dog’s diet.
Can dogs eat red lentils?
Red lentils are a popular, versatile ingredient used in many of our favourite dishes, including curries, soups, stews, dips, and pasta sauces. They add a nuttier, sweeter flavour compared to other lentils, but the question remains - can dogs eat red lentils?
More good news for our furry sidekicks! Yes, red lentils are perfectly safe for dogs to eat. They offer practically the same nutrition values as other lentils, but contain a lower amount of fibre due to being hulled (when the outer seed coat has been removed).
As with all lentils, prepare by soaking them in water for a few hours and then cook in boiling, unsalted and unseasoned water until they are soft. It’s best to serve red lentils plain and mixed with regular dog food.
Red lentils should be considered an occasional treat, so should be fed in moderation. Before you decide to add these lentils to your dog’s diet, consult with your veterinarian first.
Are red lentils healthy for dogs?
So, we know the answer to “can dogs eat red lentils?” But are red lentils good for dogs? As we discussed above, red lentils are dog-friendly and when fed in moderation as part of a well-balanced diet, they can be considered a superfood for dogs.
Red lentils, like other colours, have several nutritious benefits for dogs. Firstly, they are high in protein, supporting growth and repair of muscles, bones, cartilage, and other tissues. Red lentils are particularly beneficial for dogs who need more protein, as they provide all the amino acids that are important to animals.
Red lentils are also high in fibre, helping regulate a dog’s digestive system. They have a high iron content, which can boost energy levels, particularly for dogs who have low red blood cells or are anaemic.
They have a low amount of fat, reducing the chance of obesity, and have a good balance of potassium and sodium. Red lentils are high in potassium, helping maintain a healthy fluid and mineral balance, whereas their low sodium level is essential for proper muscle function.
Lastly, lentils, including the red variety, contain a great deal of vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, phosphorus, and B vitamins. Together, these nutrients help support a healthy metabolism, and play a vital role in tissue growth, cell function, and the immune system.
When should dogs not eat red lentils?
Dogs should not eat raw or dry lentils of any colour. Lentils must be cooked thoroughly before being fed to a dog, as they can be hard to chew and digest when raw. This can lead to digestive issues, such as an upset stomach.
Raw lentils and other legumes contain lectins, a type of plant protein that attaches to sugar molecules, sometimes preventing dogs from absorbing nutrients from other foods. Lectins are also known to get stuck to the walls of a dog’s stomach, sometimes leading to pain and gastrointestinal issues like diarrhoea and vomiting, as well as inflammation. Small amounts of lectins are beneficial for dogs, but too many can causedigestive upset.
Although rare, some dogs are allergic to lectins. If your dog shows signs of an allergy, such as being itchy or experiencing an upset tummy after eating lentils, consult with your veterinarian for further guidance.
Can dogs eat green lentils?
As we touched upon above, green lentils tend to be the hardest of all lentils to digest, sometimes causing bloating or loose stools. But, can dogs eat green lentils? Yes, they can!
Like red, yellow, and brown lentils, the green kind provides dogs with added nutrition, such as fibre, protein, and iron. They are also low in fat, and their high fibre content can be beneficial for weight management.
So, dogs can eat green lentils but only in moderation. Keep a close eye on your dog for any signs of bloating, and contact your veterinarian if symptoms persist.
The next time someone asks you, “can dogs eat lentils?,” you can confidently say, “yes, they can!” Just remember that lentils must be soaked and thoroughly cooked before serving plain small amounts with complete and balanced dog food.
Your dog can stay fuller for longer thanks to the high fibre content found in lentils, helping manage weight. Although lentils are good for dogs, they should only be given in moderation alongside a balanced diet, with the odd tasty treat thrown in!
Discover more answers to questions like ‘are lentils good for dogs?’ with our comprehensive article on what dogs can and can’t eat.
FAQs
Are chickpeas and lentils good for dogs?
Chickpeas and lentils are good for dogs to eat. Both need to be prepared beforehand by soaking and cooking thoroughly. Avoid canned chickpeas, as these often contain salt and other preservatives that can be harmful to dogs. Both are high in protein, fibre, and vitamins that support muscle growth and heart health, and should be mashed before feeding.
How many lentils can I feed my dog?
How many lentils you can feed your dog depends on its size, weight, age, and overall health. You should consult with your vet for precise guidance on a safe quantity for your breed. Remember, when feeding complete and balanced diets, your dog is receiving all the nutrients they need in just the right amounts and ratios, so, lentils should only be an occasional treat. You can mix a tablespoon of lentils with kibble once or twice a week.
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