Dogs should not be given hummus. Hummus is a spread typically made from mashed chickpeas and tahini and mixed with herbs, spices, and oil. Although hummus is not toxic to dogs, it does contain ingredients that are generally unhealthy for them, such as garlic and onion. Even if the recipe does not contain any of these ingredients, the salty and high-fat content of the spread can be unhealthy and potentially cause digestive issues.
Can Dogs Have Hummus?
Yes, dogs can have hummus in small quantities, as long as it does not contain any garlic or onions. It is important to note that hummus should only be given to a dog in moderation. Too much can cause gastrointestinal upset due to its high-fat content.
What Is Hummus?
Hummus is a popular Middle Eastern dip or spread made from cooked, mashed chickpeas, tahini (sesame seed paste), garlic, lemon juice, and salt. It is typically served with fresh vegetables and warm pita bread, as part of a Mediterranean or Middle Eastern meal. Hummus can also be enjoyed with crackers, pita chips, or crudités. Hummus can be found in many grocery stores as well.
Can Hummus Kill Dogs?
No, hummus itself will not kill a dog. However, a dog should not be given large amounts of hummus due to the presence of garlic, onions, and legumes, all of which can cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and vomiting in dogs.
Is Hummus Safe for My Dog to Eat?
In small amounts, hummus can be safe for dogs to eat. However, it is often best to avoid feeding your dog hummus as it is high in fat and contains garlic, both of which can be potentially toxic for dogs if ingested, especially in large amounts.
Can Puppies Eat Hummus?
No, it’s not recommended for puppies to eat hummus. Hummus contains garlic and onion in some recipes, which are toxic to dogs.
Is Flavored Hummus Safe for Dogs?
No, flavored hummus is not safe for dogs. Hummus is a dip or spread made primarily out of chickpeas, which are a type of legume. Some types of legumes can cause gastrointestinal problems in dogs. Additionally, hummus usually contains a large amount of garlic or onion, which can cause digestive issues and damage red blood cells in dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Low-Fat Hummus?
Yes, dogs can safely eat a small amount of low-fat hummus. It is important to make sure that the hummus is plain and does not contain any added onion, garlic, or other spices that can be toxic to dogs. Hummus is a source of protein, fat, and carbohydrates. As with any human food, it should only be used as a treat and should not be part of a balanced diet for your pet.
My Dog Ate A Little Bit Of Hummus
Your dog eating a little bit of hummus isn’t necessarily dangerous. Since hummus is made primarily of chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic, you don’t have to worry too much about your pup getting an upset stomach. The garlic in hummus can be harmful if eaten in large amounts, so you should keep an eye on your pup to make sure that they don’t have any signs of GI distress, such as vomiting or diarrhea. If your dog does experience any digestive upset, consider contacting your vet.
Can Dogs Eat Red Pepper Hummus
No, dogs should not eat red pepper hummus. Red pepper is an ingredient that can be toxic for dogs and can cause digestive upset.
3 Types of Nutrients in Dog-Friendly Hummus
- Protein: Protein is essential for the proper growth and development of dogs as it helps to support muscles, organs, and other body systems. Protein can be found in hummus as it is usually made from chickpeas, which are a great source of protein.
- Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates provide energy to the body and are a great source of fiber for dogs. Hummus is usually made from legumes such as chickpeas, which are naturally high in carbohydrates.
- Fat: Fat is an essential part of a dog’s diet and helps provide essential fatty acids. Hummus often contains a variety of healthy fats from sources such as olive oil, which can provide beneficial vitamins and minerals for your pup.
How Much Hummus Is Toxic To Dogs?
There is no set amount of hummus that is toxic to dogs since it depends on the size of the dog. However, it is best to avoid feeding hummus to your pet as it can contain ingredients that dogs should not eat such as onions and garlic.
Are Dogs Allergic To Hummus?
No, dogs are not allergic to hummus.
Why Can’t Dogs Eat Hummus?
Dogs should not eat hummus because it contains garlic and onion, which can be toxic to dogs. Hummus also typically contains tahini, which is made from sesame seeds which can cause upset stomachs and gas in dogs if eaten in large quantities.
The Harmful Ingredients In Hummus
- Refined Oil: Refined oils, such as soybean, canola, and vegetable oil are frequently used in hummus recipes and contain unhealthy fats, inflammatory compounds, and chemical solvents.
- Preservatives: Common preservatives found in store-bought hummus products, such as citric acid, are additives designed to increase shelf life and enhance flavor. They may contain up to 1,000 times more sodium than homemade hummus.
- Added Sugar: Added sugar, which is often found in store-bought hummus, increases the calorie content of hummus and promotes inflammation and disease.
- Salt: Excessive salt can increase the sodium content of hummus and may lead to high blood pressure, obesity, and other chronic health conditions.
- Monosodium Glutamate (MSG): Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a sodium-rich compound found in many processed foods, including hummus. It is linked to a number of potential adverse health effects, such as headaches and digestive problems.
3 Health Risks of Feeding Hummus to Dogs
- Allergy Risk: Certain ingredients present in hummus, such as garlic and sesame seeds, may cause an allergic reaction in some dogs. Symptoms of an allergy may include itchy skin, hives, coughing, sneezing, and wheezing.
- Gastrointestinal Upset: Too much hummus can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs due to its high-fat content.
- Obstruction: Certain ingredients in hummus, such as chickpeas, can be hard to digest and cause an obstruction in the gastrointestinal tract. This is especially true for puppies and small dogs.
What Do I Do If My Dog Has Eaten Hummus?
If your dog has eaten hummus, it is important to monitor them for any signs of discomfort or illness. Depending on how much they ate, they may experience mild gastrointestinal distress such as vomiting or diarrhea. If they appear to be in any distress, it is important to contact your veterinarian for further advice.
Other Foods to Avoid Feeding Dogs
- Onions
- Garlic
- Chocolate
- Grapes
- Raisins
- Macadamia nuts
- Caviar
- Yeast dough
- Coffee
- Tea
- Fat trimmings
- Raw eggs
- Raw meat
- Moldy foods
- Salt
Dog-friendly And Safe Non-Toxic Hummus Alternatives
- Pumpkin Puree: Pumpkin puree is a natural, safe, and healthy alternative for a dog-friendly hummus recipe. It can be served with a variety of dips and vegetables, making it a great option for pups.
- Mashed Avocado: Another great alternative is mashed avocado. Unlike hummus, this option is highly nutritious and packed with essential vitamins and minerals for your pup.
- Greek Yogurt: Greek yogurt is a great source of protein and calcium for dogs and can be served as a dip or as an ingredient in many favorite dog treats.
- Mashed Banana: Mashed bananas can serve as a yummy, non-toxic treat for your pup. Just make sure to mash it up and add some cinnamon for a tasty snack.
- Peanut Butter: This safe, all-natural treat is a great alternative to hummus due to its creamy texture and natural sweetness. Make sure to avoid giving your pup any peanut products with added sugar or artificial ingredients, though.
- Apple Sauce: This healthy alternative is easy to make at home and provides your pup with essential vitamins and fiber. Serve it as a dip or use it in place of hummus as a sandwich or wrap filling.
FAQ
Q. How much hummus can a dog eat?
A. Dogs should not eat hummus. Many ingredients in hummus, such as garlic, garlic powder, and sesame paste, can be toxic to dogs when consumed in excess.
Q. Can dogs have garlic?
A. Garlic can be toxic to dogs and should be avoided as an ingredient in their food. Symptoms of garlic poisoning in dogs include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue, breathlessness, loss of appetite, elevated heart rate, and pale or yellowing gums. In serious cases, garlic can cause red blood cell damage that leads to anemia.
Q. Can dogs eat honey?
A. Yes, some dogs can eat honey in small amounts, but it is not recommended. Honey can contain bacteria that are toxic to animals and cause food poisoning. It is also very high in sugar, which can lead to weight gain, and synthetic ingredients that can upset the stomach.
Conclusion
Yes, dogs can eat hummus in moderation. Hummus is high in calcium and protein and is a good source of iron for dogs. However, it’s not recommended to feed your pup an excessive amount of hummus due to its high-fat content. To keep your dog healthy and safe, ensure you only feed them a small amount of hummus occasionally.