Quinoa is an extremely healthy food for humans. It is rich in protein, calcium and other nutrients. But, can dogs eat quinoa? The answer is usually yes. Edible seeds are actually an ingredient in some high-quality dry dog foods. Its rich nutritional profile makes it a healthy alternative to grains like corn, wheat, and soy (all starches commonly used to make kibble).
There are concerns that a chemical naturally occurring in quinoa may cause harm to dogs. The quinoa plant produces saponins to protect itself from insects, and saponins are thought to cause intestinal irritation in humans and canines. However, the saponin content in quinoa is usually too low to cause any health problems. A dog's digestive system may be more sensitive to saponins than a human's. If you're concerned about saponins, wash the quinoa before cooking. This should remove most of this chemical.
If your dog has never eaten quinoa before, give your puppy a small amount first. While quinoa is generally a healthy food for dogs, some dogs may have difficulty digesting it. If your dog develops vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation after eating it, do not feed them any more.
You should never give your dog quinoa straight from the plate. Salt, garlic, and onions are often added to quinoa recipes, but these ingredients can be toxic to your canine companion. If you decide to give your dog quinoa, cook it to make it easier to digest. But it's important to note that you should always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new food into your dog's diet.
