Quinoa is an extremely healthy food for humans. It’s packed with protein, calcium, and other nutrients. But, can dogs eat quinoa? The answer is generally yes. The edible seed is actually an ingredient in some high-quality dry dog foods. Its strong nutritional profile makes it a healthy alternative to corn, wheat, and soy — starches that are often used to make kibble.

There is some concern that a type of chemical naturally found on quinoa could be damaging to dogs. The quinoa plant produces saponin to protect itself from insects, and it’s been suggested that saponin can cause irritation in the intestines of both humans and canines. However, the amount of saponin found on quinoa is typically too small to create any health problems.

It is possible that dog digestive systems are more sensitive to saponin than human digestive systems. If you’re concerned about saponin, wash the quinoa before cooking it. This should remove most of it.

If your dog has never eaten quinoa before, start by giving him a small amount. Though quinoa is generally a healthy food for dogs, some canines might have difficulty digesting it. If your dog experiences vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation after consumption, refrain from feeding it to him again.

You should never give your dog quinoa directly off your plate. Salt, garlic, and onions are typically added to quinoa recipes to cover up the bitterness, and these ingredients could prove toxic to your canine companion. If you do decide to offer quinoa to your dog, it should be cooked to make digestion easier. But it’s important to note that you should always consult a veterinarian before introducing any new food into your dog’s diet.

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Text Source: AKC