You’re fixing yourself a snack in the kitchen and you drop a piece of edamame on the floor. Your four-legged buddy bolts over and swallows it down. You think to yourself “Is Eating edamame is okay for dogs? Is it safe for dogs?”
Good question, right? As we’re becoming increasingly attentive to what we eat, it’s no surprise that we are also taking notice of how our dietary choices affect our four legged pals. Let’s figure this out.
Is Eating edamame is okay for dogs? Is it safe for dogs?
So last week I’m making myself this healthy lunch bowl thing with edamame, and I’m popping them out of the pods. One rolls off the counter and before I can even react, my dog Bailey swoops in and gobbles it up. I literally froze for a second thinking “wait… is that okay?” I mean, it wasn’t seasoned or anything, but still. Made me wonder how many other dog owners have had that exact moment.
You know those green soybeans in pods that you get at Japanese restaurants called Edamame? According to the American Kennel Club, soy-based foods like edamame can be safe for dogs to eat but there are some important caveats. Edamame stripped of any salt, spice or flavoring is a healthy snack you may want to share with your pup. It’s the sort of high-protein, low-fat food that’s also packed with fiber (according to veterinary nutritionists), antioxidants and essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin K, magnesium, and folate, stuff that’s actually beneficial in small amounts.
But don’t go showering these little green beans on your dog just yet. The line between treat and risk is pretty thin though. Yes, edamame might be full of nutrients, but your dog’s main diet should be proper dog food that hits all their nutritional needs. That’s just basic. Edamame should be a treat, not a meal replacement.
Does it matter how edamame is prepared before giving it to dogs?
How edamame is prepared also matters a lot for its safety for dogs. Boiled unsalted edamame is safe for dogs, but the seeds are usually found seasoned with spices, salt and even coated in oils all of which are dangerous to your furry friend and may cause digestive disturbances. So if you’re planning on giving your dog edamame, it HAS to be plain, no salt, no seasoning, nothing.
Also, if your dog has not eaten edamame before, feed them a small amount first to test their response. High fiber food may cause gas or bloating in some dogs.
Bottom line: : yes, dogs can have edamame as a treat, PetMD notes edamame isn’t toxic, just, just remember the golden rule: moderation is key, and watch how your dog reacts after eating it. And if you’re ever unsure, be sure to check with your vet.