Are snap peas good for dogs?
Well, let me put those worried thoughts to rest! As a proud doggo parent myself, I’ve done the research to find out if our beloved canine companions can safely munch on these crunchy green treats. And you’ll be pleased to know that the verdict is…Yes, dogs can eat peas!, snap peas are generally safe for dogs to eat in moderation!
But don’t just take my word for it. Let’s look into 5 interesting points about feeding snap peas to dogs so you can make an informed decision.
Are Snap Peas Good For Dog ?
First thing’s first, let’s get acquainted with these little green pods. Snap peas (also called sugar snap peas) are edible-pod peas that contain 3-8 peas inside their crunchy shells. Unlike garden peas that need to be shelled, the entire snap pea pod is edible – talk about convenience!
These nutrient-packed veggies are loaded with vitamins A, B, C, and K, plus minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium. They’re also a good source of fiber and plant-based protein. So from a nutritional standpoint, snap peas seem like they could make a healthy snack for Fido.
But before you start tossing them into your pup’s bowl, there are a few key points to consider…
Moderation is Key
Yes, dogs can eat peas! While snap peas are not toxic to dogs, they are not a required part of a dog’s diet either . As obligate carnivores, dogs have different nutritional needs than omnivorous humans. Too many plant-based foods like veggies can potentially cause gastrointestinal upset in our pups.
That’s why snap peas should only be given as an occasional snack treat, not a meal replacement. Think of them as a fun, crunchy addition to your dog’s regular diet, not a main dish.
How much is too much? Most experts recommend limiting veggie treats like snap peas to no more than 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake to avoid tummy troubles. For smaller dogs, that could be just a few snap pea pieces per day.
Snap Peas Prep Properly
Before sharing snap peas with your pooch, there are a couple food safety tips to keep in mind:
Wash them thoroughly to remove any dirt, pesticide residue, or bacteria
Cut or break into bite-size pieces to prevent choking, especially for small dogs
Never feed from a can – canned veggies are packed with excess salt
Opt for fresh, frozen or dehydrated snap peas over cooked ones with added oils/seasoning
Giving your pup plain, unseasoned snap peas straight from the garden or grocer is best. That way you can avoid any potential tummy issues from added ingredients.
When to Avoid Snap Peas
While they make a decent snack for most dogs, there are a few instances where you’ll want to skip the snap peas:
💥 Kidney disease – Peas are high in purines which can exacerbate existing kidney problems in dogs. Talk to your vet first.
💥 Pea allergies/sensitivities – While rare, some dogs may have food allergies or sensitivities to peas that could cause vomiting, diarrhea or skin issues. Introduce slowly.
💥 Weight management concerns – For overweight dogs trying to slim down, the carbs and calories in snap peas may not be worth it.
Stick to low-cal veggies.
As with any new food, go slow when first giving snap peas and watch for any adverse reactions. If your pup seems to tolerate them well in small amounts, you can feel good about using them as an occasional treat!
Fun Ways to Serve Snap Peas
Now for the fun part – how to serve up these tasty morsels to your hungry hound! Plain unseasoned snap peas make a simple, crunchy treat.
But you can also get creative:
💥 Mix frozen snap peas into dry dog food and let defrost for extra moisture.
💥 Dehydrate or air fry to make crispy snap pea chips sprinkled over kibble
💥 Stuff into hollow chew toys or make frozen pupsicles for hot summer days
💥 Use snap peas as training treat rewards during obedience sessions
Snap Peas For Dogs
Several types of peas are available, including:
💥 Snap peas, also known as sugar snap peas
💥 Snow peas
💥 English peas
💥 Garden peas
It’s perfectly fine to offer these peas to your dog either in their fresh state or after they’ve been thawed. Frozen peas are also an option. However, it’s important to avoid canned peas, as they contain high levels of sodium.
The possibilities are endless for working this healthy, low-cal veggie into your dog’s diet in fun, tasty ways. Just be sure to practice moderation so Fido doesn’t go overboard.
So there you have it – the scoop on whether snap peas are a-OK for your favorite furry friend. While not a diet staple, these crunchy green treats can make a tasty addition to your pup’s meals and snacks when given properly and in moderation. But as with any major diet change, it’s always wise to consult your veterinarian first, especially for dogs with specific health needs.
Now if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a plate of snap peas calling my name…with just a few set aside for my hungry little sous chef! Bon appétit, pups!
