You know, that vegetable that looks like a pea pod, and makes you question how much you know about peas!!
In recent years, we have seen this green pea-pod looking vegetable becoming more and more present in our supermarkets, especially in the frozen section.
Some of us have tried it, mostly by pure curiosity or because it sounded exotic, whereas vegetarians or vegans may have adopted it wholly since most health food stores also carry it.
But, what about dogs? is it safe for dogs to eat edamame since this is, at least in the western world, a type of food relatively new? Will edamame hurt dogs?
If you haven’t read our post on our home page where we explain what we mean by eat in can dogs eat? we recommend you check it out.
If you don’t want to read the techy stuff, go straight to our conclusion
FAQ
What is Edamame?
Edamame beans are whole, immature soybeans, sometimes referred to as vegetable-type soybeans. They are green and differ in color from regular soybeans, which are typically light brown, tan or beige.
Edamame beans are often sold while still encased in their pods, which are not meant to be eaten. You can also buy shelled edamame, without the pods.
But is edamame healthy? Soy foods are controversial. Some people avoid eating soybeans regularly, partly because they may interfere with thyroid function.
Nevertheless, despite these concerns, edamame and soybeans may also have several health benefits.
What kind of vitamins and nutrients do dogs need?
A dog’s nutritional needs are different than ours, obviously. However, like us, the right amount and combination of vitamins and nutrients are essential to ensure that dogs are healthy.
Vitamins are organic substances that the body needs to grow naturally. Typically, they are required in dog food in minimal amounts, and vitamin deficiencies can cause many health problems.
The most important vitamins that the dog’s body needs are:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B family
- Vitamin D
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
- Choline
Whereas for nutrients, they need:
- Calcium and phosphorus
- Potassium, Sodium, and Chloride
- Magnesium
- Iron
- Zing
- Copper
- Selenium
For more details information on each of those vitamins’ benefit to your dog read this great article by the national academy of science engineering medicine
Nutritional benefit of edamame to a dog’s diet?
So, how good are edamame for dogs? You could read the complete analysis of 100g of edamame on the the US Department of Agriculture. Alternatively, here is the summary table which is available on wikipedia.
Summary of vitamins and nutrients present in 100g of Edamame (Source: USDA via Wikipedia)Edamame beans are filled with nutrients that are useful for a dog’s overall health, growth, and development. They might be small, but they are loaded with protein, calcium, omega 3 acids, fiber, vitamins A, B, C, E & K , and nearly all nutrients.
The high dietary fiber in edamame beans helps with the regulation of the digestive system and weight management. Omega-3 acids and polyunsaturated fats help promote healthy skin and coats.
Overall, edamame beans could help promote a healthier diet for dogs and can help avoid diabetes, obesity, and other complications which are common as a dog gets older.
If you wondering how much edamame your dog should eat, check out The National Academies of Science, Engineering and Medicine recommendations below
Don’t over feed edamame to your dog because unpleasant side effects are common when dogs consume too many edamame beans at once. The most common side effect is bloating, making your dog gassy. And no one likes a farting dog!
Eating too much of these beans in one go can also cause vomiting and diarrhea due to excess fiber.
How do you prepare Edamame?
We should immediately point out that dogs can’t eat edamame whole, for risk of chocking on the pods.
In the US, most edamame is sold frozen. You can find it still in their pods, or already as beans.
Giving your dog raw or steamed edamame beans are your best option. Raw edamame beans are fresh, crunchy, and they don’t have salt, as well as additives that may not be good.
The same rule applies if you are going to steam the beans, and that’s to keep them as they are – free of added flavorings and ingredients.
Frying edamame beans either alone, with meat, or other ingredients may result in weight-related issues, if you over indulged your dog.
Similarly, baked edamame beans may also contain a lot of salt, spices, oil, and other harmful concoctions for your dog. As always, fatty foods can put your dog at risk for heart problem.
Finally, before concocting a new recipe for your dog, be sure that you have introduced him to all the different ingredients contains in the salad, otherwise your dog might get sick.
Can dogs eat edemane?
Yes, Dogs can eat edamame, however you shouldn’t feed your dog with these beans regularly since they still belong in the soy family. And one of the most common allergens in dogs happens to be soy.
Signs of soy allergy that you should watch out for include vomiting, diarrhea, excessive scratching or licking, hair loss, and ear infections. Beyond allergic reactions, other health issues associated with edamame beans and soy products are not easy to spot immediately. They include reproductive health problems, and damage to the thyroid, and liver.
So, if you are planning to give your dog edamame beans anytime soon, remember to give a small amount first and observe his reactions. It is always better to introduce new food in small portion, at long intervals.
FAQ
1 – can dogs eat edamame? Yes, however not on a regular basis as edamame is a soy bean and soy is a known allergen to dogs.
2 – can dogs eat edamame pods? No, dogs shouldn’t eat edamame pods for risk of choking.
3 – can dogs eat edamame shells? No, shells, also known as pods, present a choking risk for dogs.
4 – can dogs eat edamame beans? Yes, however not on a regular basis as edamame is a soy bean and soy is a known allergen to dogs.
5 – can dogs eat edamame skin? No, dogs shouldn’t eat edamame pods for risk of choking.
6 – how much edamame can my dog eat? You should start with 2 to 3 beans and check for any allergic reaction. Edamame is a soy bean, a known allergen to dogs.
7 – can dogs eat raw soybeans? Yes, dogs can eat raw edamame. Be aware that soy is known allergen to dogs, so check for any signs of allergy.
