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Can Dogs Eat Quinoa?
Serve small amounts, and not every day.
Is quinoa safe for dogs?
Quinoa is a protein-rich seed often used like a grain, and appears as an ingredient in some commercial pet foods. Plain, fully cooked quinoa is safe for dogs in small amounts and is used as a grain-free carbohydrate in some pet foods.
How to serve quinoa to your dog
- Cook it plain, with no butter, salt, onion or seasoning
- Rinse it well before cooking to remove the natural bitter coating
- Offer a small, cooled spoonful as an occasional extra
What to avoid
- Quinoa cooked with onion, garlic, butter or a lot of salt
- Uncooked or undercooked quinoa, which is hard to digest
How much quinoa can my dog have?
Treats, including quinoa, should stay under about 10% of your dog's daily calories. As a rough starting point, small dogs can have 1 to 2 bite-size pieces, medium dogs 2 to 4, and large dogs a small handful. Introduce it slowly and do not make it a daily habit.
Signs your dog may be having a problem
Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, pawing at the mouth, loss of appetite, tiredness, a swollen or painful belly, or trouble breathing. Contact your vet right away if you see these signs, or if your dog has eaten any of the parts listed above.
Frequently asked questions
Can puppies eat quinoa?
Young animals have more sensitive digestive systems and a carefully balanced diet, so check with your vet before adding quinoa. If you get the go-ahead, start with an even smaller amount than an adult would get.
What if my dog ate too much quinoa?
The most common result is an upset stomach with vomiting or diarrhea. Offer water, skip further treats, and call your vet if symptoms are severe or last more than a day, or if your dog ate any of the parts listed under "What to avoid".
How often can my dog have quinoa?
Treat it as an occasional extra rather than a daily food. Once or twice a week at most is a sensible starting point for a healthy adult dog, and less for small ones.
More questions dog owners ask
Wondering about the other pet in your home? Can Cats Eat Quinoa?