Can Dogs Eat Beans? Here’s What You Should Know

There are many kinds of beans that are perfectly fine for human consumption. But, can dogs eat beans? The short answer is, yes. Beans can be included in a dog’s diet. They are high in fiber and also contain protein, making beans a yummy and healthy treat. Because they are a treat, beans should not comprise more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories.

Are Beans Toxic To Dogs?

Most beans are not toxic but there are some beans that should be avoided:

It is not the beans themselves that are toxic or harmful to dogs, rather it is the additives that are found in them. With canned beans it is sodium and preservatives that may be hard on your dog’s digestive system.

Fava beans, or broad beans, are not good for dogs. They contain PHA (phytohumagglutinin) that can be toxic if taken in high doses. These beans are larger and have tough skin making them more difficult to cook properly. Cooking them is what neutralizes the PHA. If dogs consume fava beans, they will likely vomit to get rid of them.

Baked beans are not good for dogs because they are a lot higher in fat than other beans. This is especially dangerous if your dog has diabetes. If your dog ends up eating a few baked beans there will not likely be any issues, but eating them for a long period of time may cause issues with the pancreas or damage to red blood cells.

Refried beans have a lot of other ingredients in them that are not good for your dog. There is oil, garlic, chili powder, cumin, and salt. Seasonings can be hard on a dog’s tummy and they may get sick if they eat refried beans.

What Kind Of Beans Can Dogs Eat?

Dogs can eat a variety of different beans:

1. Can Dogs Eat Green Beans?

Green beans are different from other beans. While the others are legumes, green beans are a vegetable. Dogs can eat green beans cooked or raw. Doge enjoy green beans whether they are raw or cooked and they are good for dogs when given in moderation.

Though they can eat green beans, avoid giving your pet canned green beans. When vegetables are canned, there are often many additives, including sodium that will not be good for your dog. It is best to feed your dog fresh green beans from the garden or the produce section of the grocery store.

2. Are Red Beans Safe For Dogs?

Kidney beans are also on the list of beans that are safe for dogs to consume. It is also important not to serve your dog kidney beans from a can.

Buy red kidney beans in bulk and then soak them prior to cooking them. This will ensure that the beans are soft and easily digestible. Though for human consumption you may add salt or other seasonings, leave them plain for your dog.

You can mix some cooked kidney beans in with your dog’s food or just give him a few for a little snack.

3. Can Dogs Eat White Beans?

Cannellini beans and great northern beans are both fine for your dog. It is important to cook them at home as you would kidney beans. This will ensure that they do not have any additives that are unsafe for your canine friend.

Preparing The Beans

Beans need to be cooked before you feed them to your dog. Because they are high in fiber, raw beans are hard to digest. Beans may give your dog gas but it helps if you soak the beans and then cook them. Just prepare them as you would to eat them yourself!

The Final Take

Overall, beans are good for dogs and they should eat them now and then as a treat. They have lots of vitamins, protein, and nutrients that are an important part of your dog’s diet.

Remember to always cook your beans at home and do not get them from a can. This is the only way you can be sure that beans are the only ingredient and that they do not contain spices, or other additives that will be unsafe for your dog.

You need to cook the beans before allowing your dog to eat them (with the exception of green beans which can be served raw or cooked) so that they will be easy for your dog to digest.

It is also important to remember that beans are a treat. They should not be used to replace other sources of fiber and nutrients in your dog’s diet and they should only be given in small amounts.

Beans, aside from being tasty, can help dogs in other ways as well. The fiber content may help your dog to feel full for longer. Some beans can also help to fight off bacteria. Beans that are high in magnesium, such as pinto beans, will help your dog to absorb vitamin C.

With all of these benefits, who can say no to beans? Just be sure that you feed your dog beans from the list of approved choices and cook them yourself at home. Make sure you do not season them. Feed them to your furry friend in moderation so that he can enjoy all of the health benefits that beans have to offer. They are a healthy snack for humans and for dogs. Just ensure that neither of you overdoes it and end up with gas and a sore tummy!