How many disputes between supporters and opponents of peas as a food component for barking pets. Can dogs eat peas? If so, how much, when and in what form?
A number of breeders and professional veterinarians are inclined to think that this product must be unequivocally, completely and categorically excluded from the diet of canines.
They have one argument, but a very weighty one – the low digestibility of peas, as a result, constipation, bloating and other problems. But there are people who are sure that this type of legume is not only acceptable for dogs, but even necessary.
Let’s try to carefully consider both points of view, leaving the final choice to the reader.
Why can a dog eat peas? – Benefits
Supporters recommend these obvious benefits of the peas not only for humans, but also for the animal.
The presence of antioxidants in a fairly large amount, almost comparable to apples. These elements contribute to the removal of harmful compounds, heavy metals, radionuclides and free radicals from the body.
The presence, to a greater or lesser extent, of the minerals necessary for a quality life of a pet dog.
No cholesterol and sodium.
Absence of fats. It should be noted that this is, in fact, a big plus for urban pets with limited time and space for movement.
Perhaps the main advantage of peas is their high protein content, and the composition is very similar, almost identical, to the animal. This product will not be able to replace meat, but it is completely supplemented.
Why are peas not good for dogs?
The digestive system of a dog, even the largest, is much shorter than a human. The low digestibility of peas, as a result, constipation, bloating and other problems. For this reason, hard-to-digest peas. Peas are one of the heaviest options in this regard.
Read More: Can Dogs Eat Fruit?
What happens if Dog eats peas?
Flatulence
An integral part of feeding a dog with peas. And the issue is not even in an unpleasant smell, but in regular bloating. All this ultimately leads to various diseases of the internal organs, slowly but surely turning into a chronic course.
Purine
Peas contain purine. This is exactly the substance that contributes to the intensive release of uric acid. “So it’s great, a kind of diuretic that allows you to cleanse the body of harmful substances and waste products,” the prepared reader will say. However, not all so simple. Regular intake of peas will lead to excessive stress on the kidneys.
How to cook?
If, based on the results of our article, you decide that you can have peas for a dog, then you need to understand how to cook it.
There are two options: porridge and soup, everything else is either derivative or undesirable.
Cooking tip:
Don’t use salt at all. For a dog, it is not a necessary flavor enhancer, as it is for us.
Do not add seasonings like pepper.
Boil well. Peas should be as soft as possible in order to digest faster.
If you offer porridge, then you can and even need to add other vegetables to it, in particular, carrots, potatoes, as well as greens – celery, for example.
It’s a good idea to add meat to soup and porridge in the form in which the animal is used to eating it.
