Can Dogs Eat Beans?

Corey Williams
·2 min read
Can Dogs Eat Beans?

Beans, beans, they’re good for your heart—the more you eat, the more you (and your dog) fart.

Unpleasant side effects aside, is it OK for dogs to eat beans? Let’s investigate.

Yes, Dogs Can Eat Some Beans…

Chris Clor/Getty Images
Chris Clor/Getty Images

Dogs can eat some (not all!) beans.

A rich source of protein and fiber, they can actually be quite healthy in moderation. But it’s important to remember that beans should not be the main protein in a dog’s diet. Dogs and people are not the same. While humans can safely enjoy vegetarian or vegan diets, canines cannot. Since they should be considered a treat, beans should not make up more than 10% of your dog’s diet.

Let us be abundantly clear: Beans cannot replace meat in a dog’s diet. Period.

WATCH: 3 Homemade Dog Treats


Health Benefits of Beans In Dogs

Beans are a good source of protein, fiber, potassium, iron, and magnesium.

One thing to consider if your pet is on the chunky side: Beans do have a relatively high amount of calories, so they may not be the most diet-friendly choice.

Beans That Are Safe For Dogs

According to Trupanion, a pet insurance company, these types of cooked beans are safe to enjoy with your furry friend:

  • Pinto beans

  • Black beans

  • Kidney beans

  • Soybeans

  • Garbanzo beans

  • Green beans (Fun fact: Green beans are not actually beans! They’re safe for dogs, though, so we included them on this list).

  • Butter beans

  • Lima beans

  • Lentils

Related: Can Dogs Eat Watermelon?

...But They Might Get Gassy.

Photographer, Basak Gurbuz Derma/Getty Images
Photographer, Basak Gurbuz Derma/Getty Images

Shocker, right? This is yet another reason to keep your dog’s bean consumption moderate. If you can’t stand the smell, though, it might be best to avoid them altogether.

What to Do About Dog Gas

That said, hindsight is 20/20. If your dog ate beans and is now an unbearably stinky fart machine, call your vet. They’ll probably tell you not to feed your dog beans again. They may also recommend a prescription medication or antacid if the farting persists—but make sure to get your vet’s OK before medicating your pup.

Also, Some Types of Beans Are Not OK For Dogs.

Aleksandra Piss/Getty Images
Aleksandra Piss/Getty Images

Again, dogs aren’t people. Some things that are safe for humans can be dangerous, and even fatal, for dogs.

Beans to Avoid

  • Raw red kidney beans contain a toxin that’s dangerous for dogs.

  • Coffee beans can cause neurological damage and sometimes death.

  • Fava beans can cause unpleasant digestive issues like vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach pain.

  • Canned beans have way too much sodium for your furry friend.

  • Canned chili beans are especially bad, because they also contain spices, garlic, and onions.

  • Refried beans also have additives that are not good for your pup.

  • Baked beans are loaded with sugar and other additives.