In general, lentils are highly beneficial for human cardiovascular health. They are a rich source of potassium, folic acid, which support heart health.
Likewise, lentils add essential nutrients such as vitamins, antioxidants, fiber, and other minerals to the diet.
You can use lentils as an excellent addition to a healthy diet. But can dogs eat lentils and get similar nutritional benefits too? Let’s try to figure it out together.
Do you have a specific topic related to “can dogs eat lentils?” question? Then use the table of contents below to jump to the most relevant section. And you can always go back by clicking on the black arrow in the right bottom corner of the page. Also, please note that some of the links in this article may be affiliate links. For more details, check the Disclosure section at the bottom of the page.
Here's what we'll cover:
Are lentils bad for dogs?
No, lentils are not bad for your dog. They are a great source of fiber, iron, and proteins. The high-fiber and low-calorie content can help your dog feel fuller when eating.
Since lentils are high in fiber, it keeps blood glucose levels stable after a meal. So, if your dog is diabetic, lentils might be one of the products to include in pups’ nutritional plan.
At the same time, you have to be cautious. Lentils are a part of legumes, and some vets recommend keeping dogs legumes consumption to the minimum. Since those include phytates, substances that dog’s body can’t break down.
That’s why phytates might bind with proper nutrients like zinc and iron, preventing its proper absorption. So when introducing lentils to a dog’s diet, remember about the balance and keep the serving small.
Are lentils safe for dogs?
Lentils are legumes that contain high-quality ingredients – thus, it is absolutely safe for your dog. Lentils provide your dog with high levels of fiber, protein, and micronutrients.
Similarly, lentils are considered the best source of fiber, which can improve the digestive tract function of your dog.
That’s why this ingredient is getting more and more popular in nutritionally balanced dog food. So, overall, lentils are safe if you control the portion size and serve lentils in a dog-friendly manner.
Can dogs eat cooked lentils?
Yes, your dog can eat cooked lentils. In fact, we recommend you always cooked lentils thoroughly before you give them to your dog.
Lentils and dogs’ fiber requirements
The daily requirement of fiber is 2.5–4.5% of the total amount of food your dog eat.
And 30-70% of all calories should come from carbs.
So, 100 grams of boiled lentils contain 8 grams of fiber, which shows cooked plain lentils is a good option for your dog.
Can dogs eat red lentils?
Just like other types of lentils, red lentils are a great source of plant-based proteins. Along with a wealth of essential vitamins like vitamin B and C, it also contains fiber and other essential minerals.
So, yes, your dog can eat red lentils. Red lentils will keep your dog’s digestive system healthy, protect the cardiovascular system from diseases, and maintain your dog’s muscle strength.
But as always, keep an eye on serving size. Take care of making the recipe dog-friendly. And keep an eye on potential allergic reactions if your pup has never been eating red lentils before.
Can dogs eat green lentils?
Green lentils provide a healthy dose of carbohydrates. A single serving of lentils contains 9 grams of starch, which provide your dog with quick energy. Green lentils are also rich in fiber content, and your dog’s daily requirement of fiber is 8 grams. So, yes, your dog can eat green lentils in moderation.
Can dogs eat lentils in a soup?
Organic lentil soup by Amy’s. More details .
Yes, your dog can eat lentil soup if it is cooked at home. Generally, experts forbid dog owners from buying soups at the store as it contains high quantities of preservatives and ingredients.
E.g., onions, which contain disulfides and thiosulphates and are highly toxic for your dog. This can lead to hemolytic anemia.
For instance, let’s have a look at organic recipe by Amy’s. Amongst the ingredients are filtered water, organic yellow split peas, organic red lentils, organic carrots, shallots, organic garlic, organic ginger, etc. Y
es, most of those ingredients look so fine, but you definitely shouldn’t share it with your pup. Shallots and garlic won’t agree with pet digestion, not to mention a substantial amount of spices. So, a home-made soup without onions and other questionable ingredients would be a safer bet.
Lentils in dog food
Alaska Pollock free grain dog food with lentils. More details .
Various brands that really care about their ingredients, customer service, and nutritional benefits of their food for their fluffy customers really dig into lentils. Like Alaska Pollock grain-free recipe by Nylo made with all-natural ingredients aimed to improve pup’s digestive health. If you want to give lentils a try starting with these balanced dog formulas might be your best choice.
Dogs and lentils. Summary
Lentils belong to the legume family. They are a great source of plant-based proteins, fiber, and essential nutrients like vitamins and antioxidants.
So can dogs eat lentiles?
You can feed it to your dog as it contains 8 grams of fiber per 100 grams, which will fulfill the fiber requirement of your dog. Lastly, many companies make dog food products, and most of them include lentils as essential ingredients.
Make sure you feed your dog with an appropriate quantity of these legumes because too much of any product, including lentils, is not the way to go. Your four-legged friend needs a balanced diet to fulfill the need in all the nutrients and macros the dog requires for well-being.
Thanks for the blog graphics: Canva.com
