Can Dogs Eat Bean Sprouts? | Dogs & Mung Bean Sprouts

Bean sprouts are essentially the infant shoots of beans. They are stars in many Asian cuisines, and can be found tucked away in the supermarket aisle. So, can dogs eat bean sprouts?

Health Benefits of Bean Sprouts for Dogs

Drumroll, please! Can dogs eat bean sprouts? Yes, indeed! Bean sprouts pack a bunch of health benefits for your fur baby:

1. They’re a jackpot of vitamins A, C, and K. Vitamin A for an Amazing coat, vitamin C for Champion immunity, and vitamin K for Kickass protection against bleeding disorders.
2. Low in calories and fat – so your pupper stays in Instagram-worthy shape.
3. The antioxidants are like tiny superheroes, battling diseases.
4. Protein power to maintain a healthy weight.
5. Promoting a healthy digestive system with the goodness of fiber.
6. The dynamic B-vitamin squad (thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin B12) is all here.
7. High in iron, potassium, and magnesium – because your dog deserves the best!
8. Folic acid-rich – essential for expecting dog moms.

Editor’s Note 🐕

You love your pooch, right? So, check with your vet before tweaking your pup’s diet. Buy sprouts from a trusted source and cooking them reduces the risk of food poisoning.

Risks of Feeding Your Dog Bean Sprouts

Bean sprouts aren’t all sunshine and rainbows. Just like us humans, some dogs have delicate stomachs. And we both know the price of eating bean sprouts anyway – stinky issues. Gastrointestinal distress isn’t only about diarrhea and vomiting, though. Your pooch may suffer from stomachache, loss of appetite, and lack of energy.

Next on our list of risks is bacteria. Now, this actually applies to all the veggies (that both we and dogs eat). 👏 WASH 👏 THEM 👏 WELL. And for an extra-super-important step, cook them thoroughly.

At last, sometimes the culprit is the beans themselves. Not all beans are created equal. Alfalfa sprouts, for example, contain goitrogens and oxalates, which can mess with thyroid glands. Not to mention, your dog can actually be allergic to the bean sprouts (yikes).

How Much Bean Sprouts Can Dogs Eat? 

The amount of bean sprouts you should feed your dog largely depends on their size, age, and overall health. Think of them as a garnish on your dog’s diet, not the main course. So, for instance, if you have a 30-pound dog, you might add a few teaspoons of cooked sprouts to their meal. Smaller dogs shouldn’t have more than 1 teaspoon. 

Remember, the idea is to complement their diet, not to replace essential proteins and other nutrients they get from their main food. As a general rule of thumb, treats (which is what bean sprouts should be considered) should make up no more than 10% of your pup’s total caloric intake.

How to Serve Bean Sprouts to Your Dog?

Yes, dogs can eat bean sprouts, but with some precautions:

1. Cook them until they’re soft. Steaming, boiling, or sautéing works. No raw sprouts, please!
2. Wash them thoroughly, and always start with a small amount.
3. Always get your beans from a reputable supplier.
4. Toss out any leftover sprouts after a few days to avoid spoilage.
5. Like with all things, moderation is key. Your vet knows best!

Can Dogs Eat Bean Sprouts? The Final Verdict

So, can dogs eat bean sprouts? Yes, but not without limits. They offer a plethora of nutritional benefits, but they also come with a fair share of risks. Consult your vet before introducing bean sprouts into your dog’s diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Dogs Have Bean Sprouts Raw? 

No, cooking is a must to kill any potential bacteria.

What Beans Are Toxic to Dogs?

Fava beans are a no-no for dogs, while edamame and lima beans might cause tummy trouble.

What Sprouts Are Good for Dogs?

Pea, broccoli, radish, clover, and sunflower sprouts get the green light, but always wash them before serving.

What Kinds of Vegetables Can Dogs Eat?

Kale, carrots, green beans, broccoli, celery, beets, and cucumbers are all dog-friendly. Steer clear of onions and garlic, though.

Are Mung Beans Safe for Dogs?

Yes, as long as they’re cooked. They can be a nice nutrient boost for your fur baby. Moderation is the mantra!

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