Green beans tout a number of health benefits for humans. But while this people food is safe for doggies, should it be included in your dog's diet?
Let's be honest: you take just one look at those sweet puppy eyes looking up at you by the dinner table and your heart completely melts. You just can't help but give your pooch some of the yummy human foods you're eating. For most dog owners, we know this feeling all too well. Now, this is all well and good, but it's important to be mindful of what you're giving Fido as a dog treat. Maybe you've fed your pup your leftovers from dinner, and now you're asking yourself, "Can dogs eat green beans?" For humans, we know that eating lots of green veggies is all part of having a well-balanced diet, but what about dogs? Well, as it turns out, veggies like green beans are not only safe for dogs, they're a healthy treat that they're more than happy to gobble up!
Can Dogs Have Green Beans?
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If the above is any indication, the answer is a resounding yes! Not only are green beans safe for doggo — they're a great healthy snack recommended by vets everywhere. In fact, feeding green beans to your dog is a healthy treat that comes with lots of health benefits.
Why, and How, You Should Be Feeding Green Beans to Your Dog
1. Green beans offer up plenty of good stuff for your pooch.
Green beans boast lots of good stuff for both humans and dogs alike. Benefits of green beans for dogs include essential vitamins and minerals like vitamins B6 and vitamins A, as well as vitamin C, vitamin K, calcium, potassium, and magnesium among others. Green beans even have beta-carotene!
2. Green beans may help your dog lose weight.
Due to the high fiber content, green beans may help them feel full when eaten. Green beans are a low-calorie treat that's perfect for overweight dogs or dogs suffering from obesity. Remember that green beans shouldn't be the only thing you're doing towards your dog's weight loss goals (like the Green Bean Diet). Any diet change needs to be coupled with adequate exercise.
3. Not all green beans are the same.
While all types of plain green beans are safe for your dog to eat (even raw green beans), avoid green beans that are cooked in oils and fats, with other ingredients like garlic and onions, and green beans with added salt.
4. Make sure to prep green beans for your dog properly.
Be sure to chop them up into small pieces, as large, whole green beans can be a choking hazard.
5. If your dog doesn't like green beans...
Try mixing green beans with other veggies, such as sweet potatoes, in their dog food. You can also sneak it in by making some homemade treats for doggo. Chances are, they will gobble them up in no time!
Has your dog tried green beans before? Let us know on the Wide Open Pets Facebook page!
