Yes, dogs can generally eat peas. Peas are actually very healthy for our furry friends. Peas are one of the preferred sources of protein because of their low fat content, which offers many beneficial properties. To give you an overview, we've listed the 5 benefits of peas in dog food:

• muscle building
• Prevent fluctuations in blood sugar levels
• Reduce risk of diabetes and strengthen the immune system
• Risk of diarrhea or constipation is reduced by regulating moisture in the intestine
• Reducing the risk of muscle wasting and cataracts through lutein and zeaxanthin

However, we will now explain to you what you should pay attention to when processing peas:

Canned peas with carrots – harmless or poisonous?

Peas are generally not toxic to dogs. However, it's important that they are cooked, as otherwise your pet may experience unpleasant flatulence. Legumes are harder to digest raw than cooked, but they are not toxic in their raw state.

However, canned peas should be avoided. Such products often contain relatively high levels of sodium and sugar. High sodium content can affect water and electrolyte balance, leading to an uneven distribution of water in the body. Excessive sugar consumption can lead to diabetes. Therefore, the classic canned pea and carrot mix should not be fed to your furry friend.

Vitamin bomb and protein supplier combined in dog food

Peas, also known as garden peas or table peas, are a member of the legume family and are thus the oldest known cultivated members of this plant family. This vegetable originated in Asia Minor and was used as a source of protein. There are various forms, including field peas, paler peas, marrow peas, and sugar snap peas.

Legumes like peas contain many important vitamins such as A, B6, C, and K. They are also rich in trace elements such as iron, potassium, zinc, and magnesium. Peas are therefore not only healthy, but can also promote muscle building thanks to their low fat and fiber content and amino acid composition. Due to their high vitamin content and low fat content, peas are a high-quality source of protein in dog food.

BARFing: The different processing methods:

Peas can be used in various ways as a vegetable supplement in a BARF diet. We'll show you the advantages and disadvantages of the different processing methods:

The legume as flour

Pea flour is a ground powder made from dried peas. This ingredient is often used as a grain alternative or to supplement nutrients, particularly in dog biscuits and dog food. Adding pea flour to vegan dog food is particularly beneficial due to its high vitamin and fiber content.

The flour contains fiber, which can aid digestion and increase the feeling of satiety.

Since pea flour hasn't been used as an ingredient in dog food for very long, there are few studies on its long-term effects on dogs. In general, if your pet is allergic to legumes, they should avoid consuming pea flour.

Pea flakes

Pea flakes are made by drying ripe peas and grinding them into fine flakes. The nutrients are largely retained. Because they are easily digestible, they can be used as a food supplement in a BARF diet.

pea pods

For example, if your dog suffers from allergies, soy can be used as an alternative. Soy has high protein quality and is therefore often used in dog food. Dried soybeans contain about 35% protein.

Pea soup

Pea pods should be fed with caution. Snow peas, for example, are often eaten by humans with the pod intact. While our furry friends can digest them, they pose a choking hazard. Therefore, it's best to cut pea pods into small pieces so your pet can enjoy them without any problems.

Dog food without the legume

You can also give your furry friend the legume in the form of pea soup. This is a particularly good option for four-legged friends who are lazy about drinking. However, make sure that you cooking your own food Do not add too many spices such as salt or sugar to the soup.