Can Dogs Eat Pigeon Peas?
Sometimes, we like to spice up our dog’s diet with new textures and flavors in the form of new foods or additives at mealtime. After all, we like variety in our day-to-day meal choices, so doesn’t it make sense that our dogs might feel the same way?
So can dogs eat pigeon peas?
Dogs can eat pigeon peas, as well as other types of peas like green peas, black-eyed peas, or snow peas. They can eat these both cooked or raw– really, it is up to your dog’s personal preference! However, when you are serving them, you should be sure to serve them plain. This is because, while peas are fine for dogs to eat, additives and flavorings may contain ingredients that are not good for your pet or could even cause a reaction.
Of course, there are some foods that should be avoided at all costs, while others can be great additions to your pet’s food and can even be chock-full of benefits. One example of good food is pigeon peas. They add a fun crunch and flavor to dinnertime, and they are good for your dog, too. We learn more about them below.
What Are Pigeon Peas?
Pigeon peas are a type of pea also known as Gungo peas. It is a legume that was first domesticated in the Indian subcontinent about 3500 years ago and has now become popular in dishes from Asia, Latin America, and Africa. When it comes to flavor, pigeon peas are not as sweet as their green pea counterparts. They have more of a nutty flavor and a crisp texture, both of which can be compared to that of edamame.
Can Dogs Eat Pigeon Peas
Dogs can eat pigeon peas, as well as other types of peas like green peas or snow peas. They can eat these both cooked or raw– really, it is up to your dog’s personal preference! However, when you are serving them, you should be sure to serve them plain. This is because, while peas are fine for dogs to eat, additives and flavorings may contain ingredients that are not good for your pet or could even cause a reaction.
Of course, it is important to recognize that too much of a good thing can still be a bad thing. Your dog should only eat pigeon peas in moderation to avoid any reactions from eating too much. After all, fruits and vegetables are not a significant part of your dog’s diet like they are in our own diet. They should be relegated to a special treat.
Benefits of Pigeon Peas
Pigeon peas do have some benefits for your pet if used sparingly. They are a much healthier option than sharing fast food or greasy meat with your dog, and are packed full of vitamins and minerals that can help to improve your dog’s overall health.
Fiber
Fiber is important to a dog’s diet for a few reasons, and pigeon peas and other legumes are a great source of fiber. One of fiber’s benefits is that it helps to regulate your dog’s digestive system and can help it to go to the bathroom, especially if your dog has been suffering from constipation or other such issues.
Fiber also ferments into fatty acids in the body by the bacteria that lives in your dog’s lower intestines. It then helps to combat and prevent the overgrowth of bad, unwanted bacteria and also helps the colon recover from injury.
Vitamins and Minerals
Pigeon peas are high in many vitamins and minerals that can be good for your dog’s health. For instance, they are high in calcium, which can help to maintain your dog’s bones. Calcium can facilitate proper bone growth, as well as keep your dog’s bones strong and healthy as they age. Dogs with more calcium may also be able to better avoid certain injuries, especially as they begin to get older.
Another mineral in pigeon peas is potassium. Potassium is an electrolyte that is very important for heart health in your dog. It assists with electrical charges in your dog’s heart, nerves, and muscles. If your dog does not have enough potassium in its body, it may suffer from lethargy or a lack of appetite.
When Feeding Your Dog Pigeon Peas
As mentioned previously, pigeon peas can be a great addition to your dog’s diet when added in moderation. Moderation is the key word here. Too many pigeon peas may cause issues like gas bubbles, discomfort, or diarrhea in your dog. This is why you should limit the amount of pigeon peas you give your dog to a few spoonfuls a day. Of course, this does vary based on the size of your dog– if you have a smaller dog that has a lower body weight, the peas will affect them more than a larger breed. If you are unsure, you can contact your vet to discuss safe serving sizes for your pet.
It’s also important for you to be sure that the pigeon peas you are feeding your dog are plain. Sometimes, frozen or canned peas will include ingredients like onions, salt, or spices for flavor, which can be bad for your furry friend.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are green pigeon peas good for dogs?
Green pigeon peas are not toxic or otherwise very harmful to dogs, so your dog can enjoy these as a snack or a treat in moderation. However, fruits and vegetables are not necessary to our dogs’ diets like they are to ours, so your dog is not getting any amazing health benefits by eating green pigeon peas.
Are pigeon peas safe to eat?
Fresh pigeon peas can be used just like normal peas and can be eaten either raw or cooked. Yes, they are safe for us to eat, and your pet can even enjoy some of them, too!
Are peas harmful to dogs?
Peas are not harmful to dogs, as long as they are not consumed in mass quantities. They should not be used for a meal substitution, for example. Peas such as snow peas, snap peas, and pigeon peas can all be eaten by your dog, in moderation, of course.
Are peas and pigeon peas the same?
Pigeon peas are a type of pea, but they are not the same kind of pea as the green pea– which is what most people think of when they think of peas. Pigeon peas have a higher starch content and are not as sweet when eaten.