There is some concern that a type of chemical naturally found in quinoa could be damaging to dogs. The quinoa plant produces saponin to protect itself from insects, and it’s been suggested that saponin can cause irritation in the intestines of both humans and canines. However, the amount of saponin found in quinoa is typically too small to create any health problems. It is possible that dog digestive systems are more sensitive to saponin than human digestive systems. If you’re concerned about saponin, wash the quinoa before cooking it. This should remove most of this chemical.
Quinoa is an extremely healthy food for humans. It’s packed with protein, calcium, and other nutrients. But, can dogs eat quinoa? The answer is generally yes. The edible seed is actually an ingredient in some high-quality dry dog foods. Its strong nutritional profile makes it a healthy alternative to corn, grains like wheat, and soy—all starches that are often used to make kibble.
Here at the AKC, we field many queries from anxious dog owners about what is and isn’t safe for their canine companions to eat. Questions range from the obvious (“Can dogs eat cheese?”) to the trendy (“Can dogs eat kale?”) Check out more “Can dogs eat…” articles on AKC.org to see which foods are harmful to your pup.
You should never give your dog quinoa directly off your plate. Salt, garlic, and onions are often added to quinoa recipes, but these ingredients could prove toxic to your canine companion. If you do decide to offer quinoa to your dog, cook it to make digestion easier. But it’s important to note that you should always consult a veterinarian before introducing any new food into your dog’s diet.
How to Cook Quinoa for Dogs
Preparing quinoa that is safe for dogs is easy. All you have to do is follow these simple rules…
It’s important that you thoroughly rinse the quinoa before you boil it. Quinoa naturally contains trace amounts of saponins – a toxic compound that exists in many plants, including lots of the vegetables we eat. The amount of saponins a human would ingest from consuming quinoa is too small to do any harm to us, and may even be beneficial. However, they might upset your dog’s stomach. Rinsing the quinoa will wash away many of the saponins.
What to watch out for when adding quinoa to your dog’s diet
While quinoa is not toxic to dogs, not every dog can enjoy it. How do you know if your dog is having issues with quinoa? Watch out for these symptoms:
If your dog is drooling after eating quinoa, it could signal and allergic reaction. Contact your vet to discuss the best course of treatment.
Obviously, not wanting to eat after a tasty treat like quinoa is not a great sign, you’ll want to work with your vet to get to the bottom of this. The vet will do a quick exam to figure out why your dog might not be hungry and get him the best treatment possible.
One of the main reasons why you want to watch your dog when introducing quinoa is that there is some concern that saponin a chemical naturally found on quinoa could be damaging to dogs. The quinoa plant produces saponin to protect itself from insects, and it’s been suggested that saponin can cause irritation in the intestines of both people and dogs. However, the amount of saponin found on quinoa is typically too small to create any health problems.
There is some possibility that dog digestive systems are more sensitive to saponin than human digestive systems. If you’re concerned about saponin, wash the quinoa before cooking it. This should remove most of it and make it easier on your dog’s stomach.
If your dog generally has a sensitive stomach, they may just not be able to properly digest quinoa. If you think this is a possibility, discuss it with your vet prior to feeding. You don’t want to make your dog sick unnecessarily.
Can Dogs Eat Quinoa
With so many buzzwords in the world of dog food, it can be overwhelming at times for pet parents to navigate the litany of nutrition options available on the market. From knowing what types of food to feed a specific dog breed or even the best diet for an overweight pooch, there is an endless array of options to choose from. The good news? Some of the latest food trends are actually healthy for our furry companions, too. Take for example the quinoa phenomenon – once a relatively unfamiliar food to the US, this ancient grain has grown in popularity over the past few years, even appearing on pet blogs such as Petnet as a hot new health food for both humans and their four-legged friends. So the question remains: is quinoa good for dogs? In this article, we’ll explore many frequently-asked questions, including the quinoa for dogs benefits – and what pet foods feature this superfood that has garnered so much attention as of late.
Quinoa FAQs: Commonly-Asked Questions About The “Ancient Grain”While many of us may have heard of quinoa – or even eat it ourselves – there is much that people do not know about this nutrient-rich ingredient. According to the Whole Grains Council, the majority of the world’s quinoa crop is grown in South America, about a third of which is organic. While there are hundreds of types of quinoa grown, the most common varieties are either white, red, or tan. Although this gluten-free food dates back thousands of years and is often referred to as an “ancient grain”, quinoa is actually a seed. Used as a healthy substitute for certain gluten-heavy carbohydrates such as rice and pasta, quinoa has continued to grow in popularity as health-conscious people search for ways to reduce their processed food intake and cut their caloric intake – especially the gluten-sensitive set. But how does this grain-free food benefit our dogs? Below, a few frequently asked questions regarding quinoa for dogs:
Q: Is Quinoa Safe For Dogs To Eat?A: A great deal of research has shown that quinoa is a highly nutritious food for humans. But according to the AKC, it’s also safe for dogs and cats, too – in fact, many premium dog kibble brands have begun using it as a substitute for less healthy starches such as wheat, soy, and corn. Loaded with calcium, protein, vitamin E, B-1, B-2, it also touts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, it offers trace minerals such as iron, magnesium, phosphate, and potassium, as well as heart-healthy monounsaturated fat and omega-3 fatty acids – so it’s no wonder that this ‘superfood’ has taken off in popularity for both health-conscious humans and their pets! Since it’s high in both protein and healthy carbs, quinoa is especially beneficial for active dogs and cats.
Q: Does Feeding My Dog Quinoa Pose Any Risks?A: When processing for cooking, the quinoa seed coating is removed. In nature, the raw seed coating (called saponins) may be a bit bitter, which is why it is removed, but quinoa is a safe food for dogs. And because this coating is usually removed during the cooking and processing phase (if it’s listed in your dog food ingredients), it won’t taste as bitter in your pup’s kibble, since high-quality dog food recipes will add other natural ingredients and seasonings to make it more appetizing.
As in introducing any new food to his diet regimen, keep an eye on your dog if you change his kibble and see how he reacts to it. It’s best to give your dog a small amount at a time, transitioning gradually over a period of several days.
Q: Is Quinoa Good For Dogs With Allergies Or Food Sensitivities?A: Just as some humans experience food allergies, our canine companions can also experience allergic reactions to certain foods, including dog food ingredients. In the instance that your furry friend has been diagnosed by a veterinarian with canine allergies, the vet’s office may recommend an elimination diet. This type of diet basically entails determining what foods your dog may or may not be allergic to by introducing them to the animal one at a time to see how he reacts. If you notice itching, gastrointestinal problems (such as diarrhea/vomiting/constipation), or even chronic otitis (ear infections), it most likely means he’s allergic to that particular food. Your vet can provide further instructions on this process, but this method – also known as a “restricted diet” – can help to pinpoint what your dog can and cannot eat. In other instances, your dog may have a food sensitivity – such as a reaction to specific foods such as gluten – so he may require a gluten-free diet. In either case, your vet can determine his condition and the best steps to take to ensure he receives the proper nutrition at feeding time.
When diagnosing your dog, some vets will recommend what is known as a “limited-antigen” diet – meaning one protein and one carbohydrate at a time. Furthermore, the foods should be new to the dog – meaning he’s never eaten them before. Among the list of ‘novel’ carbohydrate ingredients – you guessed it, quinoa. Other sources of ‘good’ carbs may include oats, pumpkin, barley, and even dog food containing chickpeas, which is also a great source of protein. If you notice your dog’s allergy symptoms improving, high-quality dog kibble including these ingredients (such as quinoa) may be a great source of nutrition for your pooch.
Q: What Are The Health Benefits Of Quinoa For My Dog?A: As we’ve covered, quinoa has a vast array of beneficial vitamins and minerals that can really boost your dog’s diet and overall health. Let’s take a closer look at how quinoa can benefit your canine companion from A to Z:
Amino Acids: Crucial to dogs as well as humans, essential amino acids must be derived through proper diet – and quinoa is packed with this vital nutrient. In addition to protecting muscles while increasing muscle growth, it also reduces fatigue – making it an excellent dietary ingredient in any dog’s food regimen.Vitamin B1: Also known as Thiamine, quinoa is rich in Vitamin B1, which supports canine metabolism as well as proper brain function.Calcium: Another mineral found in quinoa, calcium supports healthy bones and teeth, and is especially beneficial to pregnant canines and nursing female dogs. The nutrients from calcium support the dog’s body from puppyhood to adulthood.Carbohydrates: When it comes to dog food, all carbs are not created equal. Many dog foods use cheap carbs and fillers – often corn, rice or wheat – and they don’t always provide the best source of carbohydrates for your dog. Quinoa, on the other hand, is a nutritious complex carbohydrate source, providing your pooch with a steady stream of clean energy. Since the type of sugar molecules found in quinoa takes longer to break down, the nutrition is absorbed more slowly into the dog’s system, sustaining energy levels for a longer time than conventional carbs.Copper: Essential for maintaining bone health and supporting connective tissues, this mineral also helps to form the myelin sheath, a protein-based substance within the dog’s body that acts as an insulating layer. Myelin forms around the nerves, including those found in the brain and spinal cord, and protects the nerve endings while allowing efficient conductivity of electrical impulses along with the nerve cells.Fiber: People aren’t the only creatures who need fiber to stay ‘regular’ – our dogs can benefit from it, too. Quinoa is a great source of naturally-occurring fiber, which can help to regulate normal bowel movements and aid in the prevention of constipation.Vitamin E: Just as humans benefit from the beauty-bonuses Vitamin E has to offer, it can also aid our four-legged friends – whereas it nourishes our skin, nails, and hair, Vitamin E can make our furry pals’ coats smooth, sleek, and shiny.Iron: In order to protect dogs from anemia, a diet rich in iron is recommended for their overall health and vitality. Adequate iron levels ensure that the red cells are able to develop properly while performing their function – so quinoa is a great source of iron for canines.Magnesium: Essential to maintaining a dog’s muscle and nerve function, this mineral keeps bones strong while sustaining a regular heartbeat. Additionally, magnesium regulates blood sugar levels and is key to the production of proteins and energy within the body. Manganese: Yet another highly beneficial mineral to your pooch, manganese aids in carbohydrate and protein absorption, as well as the digestion process. It also ensures proper enzyme function within a dog’s body.Phosphorus: Fundamental for the body’s utilization of fat and carbs, phosphorus also works with proteins in order to promote the healthy growth & regeneration of tissues and cells in your dog’s body. Since it’s so rich in phosphorus, quinoa is an excellent source for your dog’s overall health, as it supports his heart and kidney functions.Potassium: A highly beneficial mineral to your pup, potassium helps regulate the delicate balance of electrolytes and other fluids in the body. Additionally, it plays a key role in canine nervous system function – yet another reason why quinoa really is a ‘superfood’ ingredient in any dog’s diet.Zinc: In addition to aiding in a dog’s metabolic processes, zinc is also a potent antioxidant. Because a deficiency can pose a danger to your dog’s health, choosing foods rich in zinc – such as quinoa – can protect his overall well-being and vitality.
Can Dogs Eat Quinoa: How To Add It To Their Diet, NaturallyAs you can see, there are so many benefits to feeding a diet made with quinoa into your dog’s dietary regimen. Choosing quality dog foods such as Lucy Pet can really make a difference in your pet’s health and longevity. With our scientifically-formulated blends of balanced nutrition, our natural dog kibble and treats take the guesswork out of feeding your pup. Packed with healthful ingredients – including gluten-free, amino-rich quinoa, protein-studded chickpeas, premium meats and fish, vitamin and mineral-packed veggies (such as pumpkin), and other superior whole food sources – our dog food formulas are based on 40 years of research and studies by Dr. George C. Fahey. Take the next step in ensuring your furry friend’s vitality and make him a Lucy Pet dog today.