If you have ever wondered if your dog can eat black eyed peas, then the answer is yes – dogs can eat black eyed peas! Just make sure to prepare them right!
What are black eyed peas?
Black eyed peas, also called cowpeas, are a bit of a misnomer – they are in fact a type of bean, not a pea! In appearance, they are small in size, kidney shaped and exhibit a black marking along one edge. Looking at the bean, you could say that it resembles a black eye, and a possible reason why they are known by that name.
Black eyed peas have a long history of being cultivated, going back to at least the 17th century. They are eaten all across the world, including Asia, Africa and America. In the Southern United States, they have become known for their use in African American “soul food”, and its also said to bring wealth and prosperity for those who eat it!
Can dogs have black eyed peas?
Yes! It is a type of bean, and like many other beans (such as lima beans, kidney beans and soybeans) they are dog friendly. Just make sure they are fed to your dog in small quantities, as part of a balanced diet, and by following the preparation tips in the section below, under “How to prepare black eyed peas for dogs?”.
Black eyed peas nutrition
For every cup (approx. 170g) of cooked black eyed peas, there is around 11g of fiber. There is also 13g of protein, 35g of carbs and 0.9g of fat. Not only that, the beans also contain many other vitamins and minerals – Vitamin B6, Thiamine, Folate and Magnesium are some examples. Because of this, they can be considered a good source of nutrition for your pet.
How to prepare black eyed peas for dogs?
For dogs, you must be mindful of how to prepare black eyed peas if you plan on feeding them any. Follow the below tips to prepare black eyed peas, or cowpeas, for your dog:
- Serve them cooked so your dog can digest them
- Serve them plain – avoid things like oil or seasoning
- If using dried beans, soak them before cooking (e.g. by boiling)
- Feed them in moderation – too much too quickly can make your dog’s tummy upset (not to mention giving your dog gas, or flatulence!)
- Avoid the canned variety as they can contain added nasties like preservatives or too much sodium
- Sprinkle them on your dog’s regular meals
- Blend or mash them into a softer consistency
- You could also serve small portions of black eyed peas by themselves, as a snack or treat
Conclusion
Black eyed peas are safe to feed your dog. They really can be a nutritious food for your dog – provided you follow the preparation suggestions listed above. They should always be served plain, cooked, and in controlled quantities, that way your pooch will be happy and healthy!
