Can Dogs Eat Quinoa?
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Packed with nutrients, quinoa is often called a superfood for good reason. It’s a gluten-free seed (often mistaken for a grain) that offers complete proteins, fibre, vitamins, minerals, and even omega fatty acids – all things that can benefit your dog’s health.
So if quinoa is so nutritious, you might be wondering… can dogs eat quinoa safely?
Here’s everything you need to know.
Table of contents
What is Quinoa?
Quinoa is a seed that is often eaten in place of a grain; also known as a pseudo grain. It comes from the Chenopodium quinoa plant, first grown for food around 7000 years ago in the Andes.
Types of Quinoa
There are over 3000 types of quinoa! However, the most commonly grown types are red, black and white. The different types do have slightly varying nutrient profiles. White quinoa is the most commonly consumed, however.
Is Quinoa Gluten-Free?
Quinoa is gluten-free, which is great news for sufferers of gluten intolerance or allergy.
Nutritional Value of Quinoa
All types of quinoas have exceptional nutritional value. Examples of this include;
A rich source of complete proteins. Quinoa contains all the essential amino acids required by the body which is uncommon in plant-based proteins
A source of complex carbohydrates, with a naturally high fibre content
Multiple vitamins and minerals such as manganese, calcium, magnesium, iron and B vitamins
Unsaturated fats, featuring omega-6 and omega-3.
Is Quinoa a Superfood?
Quinoa has gained popularity in recent years due to its high nutrient content and potential health benefits. It has been given the superfood title for these reasons.
Health Benefits of Quinoa for Dogs
Is quinoa good for health? The answer is yes! There are many benefits reported for quinoa in human health, and our canine companions will likely share some of these. Potential health benefits include –
- Better digestive health – the high fibre content can help to improve your dog’s stool consistency and frequency. Plus, if your dog has a gluten allergy or intolerance, then a grain-free option can help to improve any related digestive troubles.
- Weight management – quinoa is low in fat, high in protein and a good source of fibre, all of which can be great for breeds which struggle with weight issues e.g. Labradors
- Regulation of blood sugar – complex carbohydrates are absorbed more slowly and are less likely to cause spikes in blood sugar than simple, starchy carbohydrates.
- Grain-free option – for dogs with diagnosed allergies, quinoa can be a great choice. Grain-free diets can help to reduce issues like itchy skin and digestive upset in susceptible individuals. Many gluten free foods can be low in protein and fibre, which is where quinoa can help!
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Antioxidant properties - saponins, betalains, and polyphenols found in quinoa (and other plants) have antioxidant effects, meaning that they can reduce oxidative stress and damage in the body.
Quinoa FAQs
Can dogs eat quinoa every day?
Yes, dogs can enjoy quinoa every day as long as it is properly prepared and forms part of a balanced diet.
Is quinoa good for dogs with allergies?
It depends on what your dog is allergic to! If your dog has allergies to animal proteins such as chicken or beef, then quinoa can be a helpful alternative protein source. Similarly, if your dog reacts to gluten, then choosing quinoa as an alternative to grains is a good answer.
Is quinoa good for dogs with diarrhoea?
If your dog’s diarrhoea is due to a lack of fibre in their diet or a gluten intolerance, then quinoa may be helpful. However, you should always get your pet checked over by a vet to rule out other causes of diarrhoea.
Is quinoa good for dogs with kidney disease?
If your dog suffers from kidney disease, then it is best to speak to your vet about their dietary recommendations.
Is quinoa good for dogs with pancreatitis?
Quinoa is relatively low in fat which could be helpful for dogs suffering from pancreatitis, but it is best to speak to your vet about this.
Is white quinoa good for dogs?
White is the most commonly consumed type of quinoa. While it may contain slightly lower amounts of omega-3 and vitamin E than black or red types, it is still highly nutritious
Can dogs eat couscous?
Yes, couscous is not toxic to dogs, so they can eat it in moderation. However, couscous does not contain as many nutrients as quinoa and could cause more spikes in blood sugar.
Considerations
How Much Quinoa can Dogs Eat?
Quinoa should be offered as part of a balanced diet. The exact amount your dog should have will vary depending on their age and size. At Years we take the guesswork out of it, using quinoa alongside other delicious ingredients to ensure your pet receives all their essential nutrients.
Rice vs. Quinoa? Which is Healthier?
Both rice and quinoa have nutritional value, but quinoa is a better choice if you want to include more fibre and complete proteins in your pet’s diet.
Couscous vs. Quinoa? Which is Better?
Couscous is a type of pasta made from small granules of semolina wheat. Quinoa is higher in protein and fibre than couscous, so would be the healthier choice.
Should Dogs Eat Quinoa?
Quinoa has earned the superfood title and for good reason! This seed packs a nutritional punch and are there are many benefits of quinoa for dogs . At Years, all our recipes are grain-free and have been carefully formulated with quinoa to ensure your pet receives the optimum nutrition. If you have any questions, then don’t hesitate to contact us for further information.
A Complete Nutrition System For Your Dog
Feed your dog everything they need to thrive with our fresh dog food and they will receive
- Truly personalised plan based on their life-stage, breed, weight and activity level that contains all of the essential nutrients they need.
- Unique Wholefood recipes made with prime cuts of meat, seasonal ingredients and up to 400 million gut friendly bacteria in your dogs daily meal.
- Exciting meals freshly prepared by chefs serving up delicious meals that are freshly steamed to lock in nutrients and allows you to store meals in your cupboard.
