Can Dogs Eat Chickpeas?
For many people, chickpeas (also known as garbanzo beans) are a staple. So, it’s natural to wonder: Can dogs eat chickpeas? And if so, how should they be prepared? And how much is safe?
If you’re a fan of chickpeas, read on to find out everything you need to know about sharing these beans with your pup.
Are Chickpeas Good for Dogs?
As long as the chickpeas are freshly prepared and thoroughly cooked, they are a safe and nutritious treat for dogs. In fact, chickpeas are a common ingredient in many dog foods and treats. The beans contain a number of components that, if fed in conjunction with a well-balanced commercial dog food, can add to your dog’s general nutrition.
Chickpeas are rich in protein, a very important nutrient for dogs. Although not a replacement for meat, protein-rich foods (especially those low in calories, like chickpeas) are very nutritious for our canine friends.
These beans also contain:
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Folate
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Potassium
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Fiber
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Vitamins A and B
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Magnesium
Canned Chickpeas
You might think that all chickpeas are created equal, but that’s not necessarily true. When chickpeas are canned, a large amount of sodium is typically used, and this is not so healthy for our dogs.
If you want to share canned garbanzo beans with your dog, purchase a low-sodium variety and wash them thoroughly to remove as much salt as possible. But aside from the sodium levels, canned chickpeas are still healthy for your pup.
Dried Chickpeas
Only offer your dog dried chickpeas after the beans are thoroughly cooked and soft. When dry, chickpeas can present a choking hazard for dogs and are much harder for them to digest. Cook the chickpeas until they are soft enough to mash with a fork—only then are they safe to offer to your dog.
Can Dogs Eat Hummus?
Though hummus is primarily made from chickpeas, it’s not safe to feed your dog. This is because hummus contains many other ingredients that are not dog-friendly, including garlic, onion, and spices.
That said, you can make a doggie hummus by taking plain cooked chickpeas, mashing them with a fork, and adding them to your dog’s kibble.
How To Prepare Chickpeas for Dogs
If you’d like to share chickpeas with your pup, just make sure they are fully cooked, soft, and don’t contain too much sodium. If you would like to make a dog-friendly hummus, you can mash the beans with a fork and put the paste in Kong® toys, on a lick mat, or use it as a food topper.
Remember that, although they are fairly protein-rich and calorie-poor, the trick with chickpeas (or any dog treat) is moderation. No more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories should come from treats!
How Many Chickpeas Can a Dog Eat?
How many chickpeas your dog can eat depends on their size. Follow the portion guidance below, and talk to your veterinarian before adding any food to your dog’s diet.
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Extra-small dog (2–20 pounds) = A tablespoon of chickpeas two to three times per week
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Examples: Yorkies, Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Pugs
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Small dog (21–30 pounds) = 2 tablespoons of chickpeas two to three times per week
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Examples: Basenjis, Beagles, Miniature American Shepherds
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Medium dog (31–50 pounds) = 3 tablespoons of chickpeas two to three times per week
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Examples: Basset Hounds, Border Collies, Australian Cattle Dogs
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Large dog (51–90 pounds) = 4 tablespoons of chickpeas two to three times per week
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Examples: Pit Bulls, German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, Australian Shepherds
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Extra-large dog (91+ pounds) = 5 tablespoons of chickpeas two to three times per week
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Examples: Newfoundlands, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Saint Bernards, Great Pyrenees
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Other Foods You Can Feed Your Dog
If you would like other healthy human food options to supplement your dog’s well-rounded diet, consider:
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Vegetables, such as carrots, cucumbers, green beans, and broccoli
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Fruits, including apples, bananas, and blueberries
Just keep in mind that portions of human foods—even healthy ones—should be kept small for your dog.
Featured Image: Iuliia Zavalishina/iStock / Getty Images Plus via Getty Images
