They are small and unassuming, so can dogs eat bean sprouts? This guide will tell you what you need to know.
They are a tasty addition to Chinese food and guinea pigs love them, but what about your furry friends? Can dogs eat bean sprouts?
As dog owners, we care deeply about our dog’s diet. When you are looking at sprouts for dogs, there are a lot of choices and not a lot of information. Keep reading and I’ll share all you need to know about bean sprouts and your dog’s health.
For ultimate pet safety, please ask your vet any questions you have regarding your dog eating bean sprouts.
- What Are Bean Sprouts
- Can Dogs Eat Bean Sprouts
- Are Bean Sprouts Good For Dogs
- Are Bean Sprouts Bad For Dogs
- Benefits of Bean Sprouts
- Can Dogs Eat Mung Bean Sprouts
- Can Dogs Eat Raw Bean Sprouts
- Can Dogs Eat Bean Sprouts Leaves
- Can Dogs Eat Cooked Bean Sprouts
- Can Dogs Eat Alfalfa Sprouts
- Can Dogs Eat Barley Sprouts
- Final Thoughts
- More Dog Food Resources
What Are Bean Sprouts
Bean sprouts are crunchy and low-calorie vegetables that people use on salads, in Asian pasta dishes, and in lots of other recipes.
They are not known as cruciferous vegetables and should not be confused with Brussels sprouts.
The most common type of bean sprouts used is grown by sprouting Mung beans. They are basically the early germination of beans, or otherwise known as edible bean shoots.
Can Dogs Eat Bean Sprouts
Yes, the good news is that dogs can eat bean sprouts. In fact, bean sprouts are nutritious and beneficial for your dog’s health.
The one thing to remember is that if your dog eats a high-fiber diet or happens to eat high fiber foods that day – like refried beans or green beans – let them eat bean sprouts on another day.
Some dogs are sensitive to fiber and too much in one day might cause gas or diarrhea.
More than likely your dog will be just fine eating some bean sprouts.
Are Bean Sprouts Good For Dogs
Yes, bean sprouts are actually really good for dogs. In fact, even a small amount of them can help support the prevention of liver disease and even kidney disease.
If you don’t know how your dog will react to them, the best way to introduce it to them is to give a small amount of bean sprouts on their food and see what they do.
Some dogs will gobble them up without a problem and other pups are pickier, refusing to touch them.
Are Bean Sprouts Bad For Dogs
Even though it’s not likely that they will have an adverse reaction, it’s always a chance you take when you give them something new to eat.
How they react mostly depends on how much bean sprouts they eat at once.
Since they are higher in fiber, the most that will happen is probably some gas and the urge to go poop. Still, it’s a good idea to watch for any signs of bad reactions and if you notice your dog having one, contact your local veterinarian.
Benefits of Bean Sprouts
There are lots of health benefits of bean sprouts for both humans and our fur babies. These are the most important ones.
Bean sprouts have the following beneficial nutrients in them:
- Vitamin A
- Vitmain B
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin K
- Amino Acids
They are beneficial for your dog’s immune system, skin, eyes, bones, and digestive system.
Can Dogs Eat Mung Bean Sprouts
The most common type of bean sprouts that you’ll find in the grocery store is made from mung beans. Yes, they are safe for your dogs and even make a healthy treat.
Can Dogs Eat Raw Bean Sprouts
Yes, raw bean sprouts are a healthy snack for dogs. As long as you feed your dog a well-balanced diet, raw bean sprouts make a healthy addition to it.
Remember, too many will make your dog gassy, so carefully moderate how much they eat.
Can Dogs Eat Bean Sprouts Leaves
Yes, a small portion of bean sprout leaves is safe for dogs to eat.
The leaves have more fiber in them, so it might affect your dog’s digestive system by making them gassy.
Can Dogs Eat Cooked Bean Sprouts
Yes, cooked bean sprouts are a healthy treat for your dog. As long as they are cooked plain, without any salt, garlic, onion, or spicy sauces, they are safe to give your pet.
Large amounts of bean sprouts – even cooked – might give your dog gas, so be careful how much they eat.
Can Dogs Eat Alfalfa Sprouts
There is a lot of conflicting information out there about alfalfa sprouts and dogs. Most sources agree that small amounts won’t harm your dog. There are some things to watch out for.
Alfalfa has phytoestrogens, which are endocrine disruptors. If your pet already has endocrine issues, don’t let them eat alfalfa sprouts, because it might create issues with their thyroid.
Since alfalfa is high in vitamin K, it might also reduce the effect of blood-thinning medications.
It’s also important to remember that even though alfalfa is a fantastic source of plant protein, dogs need meat-based protein. Don’t try to replace meat protein with alfalfa.
If you have any questions about your dog’s health and how they might react to alfalfa, please contact your dog’s veterinarian.
Can Dogs Eat Barley Sprouts
Yes, in small quantities, barley seed can be beneficial for dogs to eat. If your dog has celiac or can’t handle gluten, don’t let them eat barley sprouts. Barley contains gluten.
Otherwise, a small amount of sprouted seeds can give your dog amino acids and other beneficial nutrients.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, bean sprouts can be part of a healthy diet for dogs. It’s a good idea to always be careful with how much they eat since they are high in fiber.
Either sprinkle it on their regular dog food or offer it as an occasional healthy treat.
As always, please ask your veterinarian any questions you have about your dog’s health and whether bean sprouts are a good idea.
More Dog Food Resources
Here are some more resources about human foods dogs can eat and ones that are bad for them.
- Can Dogs Eat Artichokes
- Can Dogs Eat Beans
- Can Dogs Eat Bok Choy
- Can Dogs Eat Eggplant
- Can Dogs Eat Lentils
- Can Dogs Eat Okra
- Can Dogs Eat Olives
- Can Dogs Eat Radishes
Find lots more articles on food dogs can eat here on Spoiled Hounds!
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