Quinoa for dogs: benefits and harms

Quinoa is the seed of a plant that humans have been growing for thousands of years. Recently, it has gained popularity because it is gluten-free and a source of a wide range of nutrients. People often eat it as an alternative to rice and other grains. But can you give quinoa to your dog? Read on to find out if quinoa is good for dogs and how to prepare it.

Can a dog have quinoa

Today, quinoa is an ingredient in many dog ​​foods. It is often used to replace grains such as wheat, corn and rice. Quinoa is not only a source of complex carbohydrates, fiber, essential amino acids and fatty acids, but also contains a number of vitamins and minerals. These include:

• Iron.
• Calcium.
• Copper.
• Zinc.
• Phosphorus.
• Potassium.
• Magnesium.
• Manganese.
• Vitamin E.
• B vitamins.

The essential nutrients in quinoa help keep pets healthy and shiny coats, maintain healthy teeth and nails, and keep bones strong. Nutrients help support metabolism, blood sugar levels, brain function and are good sources of energy for daily activities.

Is Quinoa Safe for Dogs?

The quinoa seed coat contains a natural chemical called saponin that protects it from insects during growth. This chemical is known to cause intestinal irritation in both humans and dogs, according to the American Kennel Club. In addition, when feeding a four-legged pet with a balanced diet, it is not recommended to add additional ingredients to the diet, including quinoa, as this leads to an increase in calories and disrupts the balance of nutrients in food. Over time, this can cause health problems.

Some dogs develop digestive problems when eating plant foods that have not been cooked properly. Feeding quinoa to these pets can cause stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation. 

Oxalates found in plants can also exacerbate inflammation in dogs. This leads to increased pain in dogs with arthritis. Keep in mind that quinoa is often cooked with other ingredients such as salt, onions, beans, meat, and spices that can be detrimental to a dog’s health. For this reason, quinoa prepared for humans should never be fed to a dog, even if it is a small piece from the owner’s plate.

How to give your dog quinoa

Can a dog eat quinoa porridge? Yes, if properly cooked and offered in small quantities. In any case, it is best to avoid the associated risks and not give your dog food from your table.

Before feeding your dog new foods, it is best to consult your veterinarian.