Are Peas Good for Dogs?

Peas are a nutritious and healthy source of vitamins and minerals, making them an excellent addition to your dog’s diet. Despite their small size, peas pack a ton of protein and fiber into their little casings. They’re also rich in iron and other vitamins and minerals that can help support your dog’s immune system, digestion, and overall health. Peas also contain antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and help keep your dog healthy as they age.

What Kinds of Peas Can Dogs Eat?

While peas can be good for your dog, not all types of peas are safe or nutritious for them to eat—especially if they’re prepared with extra ingredients like butter, salt, or spices.

Here’s a breakdown of different types of peas and whether they’re safe for your furry friend:

Frozen Peas

As long as they’re not seasoned with salt or other harmful ingredients, frozen peas are fine for dogs to eat in small quantities. You can even give your pooch frozen peas right from the freezer as a treat, though cooking them will make it easier for them to chew.

Canned Peas

Unfortunately, canned peas are not recommended for dogs because they contain high levels of sodium. Foods high in sodium can lead to dehydration and other health issues. An occasional bite or two of canned peas will probably be fine, but regular helpings from the can may cause long-term problems for your pup.

Chickpeas

Chickpeas are a great source of protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients for dogs. Just make sure they’re thoroughly cooked before feeding them to your furry friend.

Black-Eyed Peas

Black-eyed peas are safe for dogs to eat, but they should be cooked and served plain without any seasoning or spices.

Snap Peas

Snap peas are an excellent source of vitamins A and C for dogs. But because the outer pods may be tough for some dogs to digest, it’s best to serve snap peas cooked or chopped into small pieces.