Can Dogs Eat Lentils in Addition to Their Dog Food?

The answer is yes, dogs can eat lentils. In moderation, lentils are very nutritious for dogs. Apart from fiber and protein, they’re a source of iron, B vitamins, phosphorus, zinc and carotenoids among other micronutrients. A different question is, can dogs eat lentils of all varieties and are they equally beneficial? Find out!

What Are the Benefits of Lentils for Dogs?

Let’s start with the nutritional value. Legumes in general are low in calories but high in fiber. Just like peas, lentils contain complex carbohydrates and a good amount of protein. They’re especially high in the amino acid lysine.

So, what benefits can dogs eat lentils for?

• Helping with weight loss or management. Thanks to their fiber content, lentils help dogs feel fuller longer and lose or maintain their ideal weight.
• Boosting energy levels. Lentils are a good source of carbohydrates which can provide a quick burst of energy for dogs.
• Supporting the digestive system. Lentils can help improve bowel regularity and digestion due to their high fiber content.
• Supporting joint health. The lysine in lentils helps promote collagen production, which is important for healthy joints.
• Improving overall health. Lentils are a good source of antioxidants, which can protect cells from damage.

So, lentils can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet. They’re especially beneficial for dogs who are overweight or struggling with digestion issues.

Do Lentils Cause Heart Disease in Dogs?

You may have heard about the FDA linking certain brands of dog food to the increased risk of heart disease. What did they have in common? They were grain-free, but contained legumes instead. This has led some people to believe that all legumes, including lentils, are bad for dogs.

However, the truth is that no definitive link between legumes and heart disease in dogs has been found. The FDA’s warning was based on a single study which looked at a small number of cases.

Also, the dogs were eating legumes every day in their main food, which is very different from having some as a snack. If you only give your dog a small amount of lentils from time to time, you have nothing to worry about.

What Amount of Lentils Is Safe for Dogs?

Just like with people, lentils can be part of a healthy diet for dogs when consumed in moderation. A good rule of thumb is to start with around one tablespoon at a time. Too much fiber can lead to stomach upset in dogs, so it’s essential not to give them too many lentils at once. As always, we recommend you speak with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet’s diet.

What’s Better for Dogs: Raw or Cooked Lentils?

Raw lentils can seem more nutritious. However, cooking helps break down the lentils’ tough outer hulls, making them easier for your dog to eat and digest. Raw legumes also contain lectins, which are proteins that can cause vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain in dogs in high doses. So, cooking lentils will make them easier on your dog’s stomach.

Are Red, Green and Brown Lentils Equally Healthy?

Red lentils are the most delicate of all the lentil varieties and cook the quickest, usually in about 15 minutes. They have a mild, earthy flavor and can be used in soups or purées.

Green lentils are firmer than red lentils and take a little longer to cook, around 30 minutes. They hold their shape well when cooked and have a slightly nutty flavor.

Brown lentils are the most common type of lentil and can take anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes to cook, depending on how soft you want them. They have a hearty, earthy flavor and are often used in stews and soups.

Can dogs eat lentils of all varieties? Yes. All three types provide dogs with similar benefits, so it’s fine to rotate them in your dog’s diet. Just make sure that the lentils are cooked before feeding them to your pup.

Can Dogs Eat Lentil Soup?

Unless you cook it specially for your dog without any spices, salt or other additives, we do not recommend feeding your dog lentil soup. The broth in most soups is high in sodium, which can be harmful to dogs. And many soups also contain onions and garlic, both of which are toxic to dogs. So, it’s best to stick with cooked lentils as a healthy snack for your pup.

Add More Variety to Your Dog’s Diet With Lentils

Can dogs eat lentils? Yes! If you’re looking for a healthy, affordable way to add more variety to your dog’s diet, they’re a great option. They’re packed with nutrients, can be easily cooked, and are easy on the wallet. So go ahead and give your pup a bite of heaven with some delicious lentils today.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Better for Dogs – Rice or Lentils?

Lentils are more nutritious than rice, but they’re also more difficult to digest and can cause bloating in large amounts. Rice is easier for dogs to digest, which makes it a better choice for many pups. However, both are safe additions to canine diets.

Can Dogs Eat Lentils and Chickpeas?

Yes, chickpeas are also safe for dogs to eat. As with any other new foods, it’s a good idea to start your dog off on a small amount at first and see how they react. Just like with any other food, if you notice any signs of an upset stomach or diarrhea, stop feeding your dog the new food immediately.

Do Lentils Make Dogs Gassy?

It can happen. Some dogs are more sensitive to fiber than others, so you may notice some gas or bloating in your pup after introducing lentils into their diet. If this happens, try introducing lentils slowly into your dog’s diet over the course of a few days. This should help them adjust to the new food.