Can Dogs Eat Chickpeas (Garbanzo Beans)?

Yes, dogs can eat chickpeas (or garbanzo beans)! They’re not a replacement for meat, but they are a great source of protein. If your dog’s never tried chickpeas before, it’s a good idea to start small—some dogs might find them a little tricky to digest at first. But don’t worry, they’re a healthy addition to your dog’s diet. Just make sure you’re serving them plain, without any salt, seasonings, or additives. And hey, if you’re grabbing a can from the shelf, take a quick look at the label to keep things safe and simple.

cooked chickpeas in a bowl, on a plate and a wooden spoon and a dog

Table Of Contents

How to feed your dog chickpeas?
- Important to remember – dogs shouldn't eat hummus
How good are chickpeas for dogs?
Are chickpeas hard to digest?
FAQs

When it comes to sharing human food with our dogs, it’s important to remember that they digest things differently than we do. For instance, their bodies aren’t built to handle salt the way ours can, so even a little bit of salty food can be too much for them. That’s why feeding dogs table scraps isn’t always the best idea—what’s harmless for us could upset their stomachs or even cause bigger health issues over time. And that’s why we can’t give them chickpeas we prepared for ourselves (mine are drizzled with olive oil, salt, and garlic powder!).

How to feed your dog chickpeas?

If you’re thinking about adding chickpeas to your dog’s diet, a simple and healthy option is to prepare a food bowl with chickpeas, rice, and cooked chicken meat. It’s a balanced meal that offers protein from the chicken, fiber from the chickpeas, and carbs from the rice. Just remember to keep everything plain—no salt, seasonings, or extra ingredients. Your dog will love it, and you’ll feel good knowing they’re getting a nutritious meal. You can also add cooked carrots and cucumbers to this bowl!

Important to remember – dogs shouldn’t eat hummus

When it comes to hummus, that’s a no-go for dogs. We actually wrote a whole article about whether dogs can eat hummus because it’s such a common question. The problem with hummus is that it’s packed with ingredients like spices, garlic, and lemon juice—things that can really upset a dog’s stomach. The acidity from the lemon juice, in particular, can be hard on their digestive system, leading to discomfort or worse. So, while chickpeas on their own are fine, hummus is something to keep far away from your dog’s bowl.

How good are chickpeas for dogs?

Dogs have specific nutritional needs. A well-balanced diet for dogs should primarily include high-quality proteins, healthy fats, and the right balance of carbs. While meat is typically the main source of protein for dogs, other foods like vegetables and legumes can offer additional nutrients. That’s where chickpeas come in. Although hummus is off-limits due to its added ingredients like garlic and lemon juice, plain chickpeas are actually a healthy option for dogs.

Chickpeas are packed with:

Protein: Helps support muscle development and repair.

Fiber: Helps in digestion, regulates bowel movements, and helps maintain a healthy weight.

Iron: Supports healthy blood and energy levels.

Magnesium: Promotes healthy bone development and nerve function.

Potassium: Supports heart health and helps maintain fluid balance.

While chickpeas are a nutritious addition, they won’t make your dog healthy on their own. The key is to feed them as part of a healthy and balanced diet that meets all of your dog’s nutritional needs.

Are chickpeas hard to digest?

Chickpeas can be a bit hard to digest because they’re rich in fiber. Fiber is an important part of a dog’s diet, but how well they digest it can vary depending on their own metabolism, eating habits, and individual health needs. Generally, fiber plays a big role in keeping your dog’s digestive system running smoothly. Fiber prevents constipation, makes it easy for dogs to regulate bowel movements, and can even help with weight management. Similar to humans, fiber will make your dog feel fuller for longer.

However, too much fiber isn’t always a good thing. For dogs with sensitive stomachs, a high-fiber diet might lead to gas, bloating, or even diarrhea.

Extra fiber is often recommended for dogs who struggle with constipation or those who need to lose weight, as it helps move things along in the digestive tract and curbs hunger. On the other hand, if your dog has a sensitive digestive system or tends to get gassy, you might want to be careful with fiber-rich foods like chickpeas.

For dogs that are sensitive to grains, chickpeas or garbanzo beans can be a great alternative. Many commercial dog foods use grains like corn, wheat, or soy as fillers, which can sometimes cause allergies or digestive issues in certain dogs. Chickpeas, being a legume, are a grain-free source of carbohydrates and protein. They also have a lower glycemic index compared to some grains, which means they won’t spike your dog’s blood sugar levels as much.

So, while chickpeas are a healthy addition to your dog’s diet, how well your dog digests them depends on their overall health and dietary needs. If your dog is new to chickpeas, start with small amounts and see how they handle it. As with any dietary change, it’s always a good idea to consult with your vet, especially if your dog has specific health concerns.

In summary:

Fiber in chickpeas: Regulates bowel movements, prevents constipation, and helps with weight management.

When extra fiber is good: For dogs with constipation or those needing weight management.

When fiber is bad: For dogs with sensitive stomachs, leading to gas, bloating, or diarrhea.

Chickpeas as an alternative: Great for dogs sensitive to grains, offering a grain-free source of carbs and protein, and better for managing blood sugar levels.

Remember, chickpeas are healthy, but they work best as part of a balanced diet tailored to your dog’s unique needs.

Love, life, and fur forever!

FAQs

Can dogs eat chickpea pasta?

Yes, dogs can eat chickpea pasta in moderation. Just make sure it’s plain and doesn’t contain any added salt, garlic, onion, or other seasonings that could be harmful to your dog. Chickpea pasta is full of protein and fiber, but like any new food, introduce it slowly to see how your dog’s digestive system handles it.

Can dogs eat canned chickpeas?

Dogs can eat canned chickpeas, but you need to be a bit cautious if you often use them. Canned chickpeas often contain added salt and preservatives, which aren’t good for our dogs. The best ones are the low-sodium canned chickpeas, and the best way to give them to your dog is to rinse them under lots of water to remove the extra salt.

Can dogs eat raw chickpeas?

They can’t, really. Raw chickpeas are not meant for consumption, and they are extremely hard to digest, which causes an upset stomach or even choking. It’s best to cook chickpeas before feeding them to your dog to ensure they’re soft and easier to digest.

Can dogs eat cooked chickpeas?

Yes, dogs can eat cooked chickpeas. Both roasted and boiled chickpeas are safe, but they should be plain—without any added salt, spices, or oils. Boiled chickpeas are generally easier for dogs to digest compared to roasted ones, which can be harder and crunchier. If you’re roasting chickpeas, make sure they’re cooked until soft enough for your dog to chew comfortably. Cooked chickpeas are a healthy addition to your dog’s diet when served in moderation.