Quinoa for Dogs and Cats?

Long time readers know that I've worked in the pet industry for over 20 years. My background is specifically in dog and cat nutrition, and in full disclosure I am a partner at a pet food company called Lucy Pet Products. Many of our recipes include quinoa, which is considered an ancient grain, but is actually a seed and is very healthy for people and pets. Our nutritionists developed dog and cat foods with quinoa because it is a high quality ingredient and an excellent source of energy and nutrients. Here is an excerpt of a blog post from the Lucy Pet website. 

The quinoa phenomenon is truly remarkable in North America. Once a relatively unfamiliar food to the US, this ancient grain has grown in popularity over the past few years, even appearing on pet blogs such as Petnet as a hot new health food for both humans and their four-legged friends. So the question remains: is quinoa good for dogs? In this article, we’ll explore many frequently-asked questions, including the quinoa for dogs benefits  – and what pet foods feature this superfood that has garnered so much attention as of late.

Quinoa FAQs: Commonly-Asked Questions About The “Ancient Grain”While many of us may have heard of quinoa – or even eat it ourselves – there is much that people do not know about this nutrient-rich ingredient. According to the Whole Grains Council, the majority of the world’s quinoa crop is grown in South America, about a third of which is organic. While there are hundreds of types of quinoa grown, the most common varieties are either white, red, or tan. Although this gluten-free food dates back thousands of years and is often referred to as an “ancient grain”, quinoa is actually a seed. Used as a healthy substitute for certain gluten-heavy carbohydrates such as rice and pasta, quinoa has continued to grow in popularity as health-conscious people search for ways to reduce their processed food intake and cut their caloric intake – especially the gluten-sensitive set. But how does this grain-free food benefit our dogs? Below, a few frequently asked questions regarding quinoa for dogs:

Q: Is Quinoa Safe For Dogs To Eat?A: A great deal of research has shown that quinoa is a highly nutritious food for humans. But according to the AKC, it’s also safe for dogs and cats, too – in fact, many premium dog kibble brands have begun using it as a substitute for less healthy starches such as wheat, soy, and corn. Loaded with calcium, protein, vitamin E, B-1, B-2, it also touts antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Furthermore, it offers trace minerals such as iron, magnesium, phosphate, and potassium, as well as heart-healthy monounsaturated fat and omega-3 fatty acids – so it’s no wonder that this ‘superfood’ has taken off in popularity for both health-conscious humans and their pets! Since it’s high in both protein and healthy carbs, quinoa is especially beneficial for active dogs and cats.

Q: Is Quinoa Good For Dogs With Allergies Or Food Sensitivities?A: Just as some humans experience food allergies, our canine companions can also experience allergic reactions to certain foods, including dog food ingredients. In the instance that your furry friend has been diagnosed by a veterinarian with canine allergies, the vet’s office may recommend an elimination diet. This type of diet basically entails determining what foods your dog may or may not be allergic to by introducing them to the animal one at a time to see how he reacts. If you notice itching, gastrointestinal problems (such as diarrhea/vomiting/constipation), or even chronic otitis (ear infections), it most likely means he’s allergic to that particular food. Your vet can provide further instructions on this process, but this method – also known as a “restricted diet” – can help to pinpoint what your dog can and cannot eat. In other instances, your dog may have a food sensitivity – such as a reaction to specific foods such as gluten – so he may require a gluten-free diet. In either case, your vet can determine his condition and the best steps to take to ensure he receives the proper nutrition at feeding time.

When diagnosing your dog, some vets will recommend what is known as a “limited-antigen” diet – meaning one protein and one carbohydrate at a time. Furthermore, the foods should be new to the dog – meaning he’s never eaten them before. Among the list of ‘novel’ carbohydrate ingredients – you guessed it, quinoa. Other sources of ‘good’ carbs may include oats, pumpkin, barley, and even dog food containing chickpeas, which is also a great source of protein. If you notice your dog’s allergy symptoms improving, high-quality dog kibble including these ingredients (such as quinoa) may be a great source of nutrition for your pooch.

Can Dogs Eat Quinoa: How To Add It To Their Diet, Naturally
As you can see, there are so many benefits to feeding a diet made with quinoa into your dog’s dietary regimen. Choosing quality dog foods such as Lucy Pet can really make a difference in your pet’s health and longevity. With our scientifically-formulated blends of balanced nutrition, our natural dog kibble and treats take the guesswork out of feeding your pup. Packed with healthful ingredients – including gluten-free, amino-rich quinoa, protein-studded chickpeas, premium meats and fish, vitamin and mineral-packed veggies (such as pumpkin), and other superior whole food sources – our dog food formulas are based on 40 years of research and studies by Dr. George C. Fahey. Take the next step in ensuring your furry friend’s vitality and make him a Lucy Pet dog today.

Lucy Pet has full transparency of every ingredient used in the formulas. You can learn more about each ingredient and where is it sourced from, right from the website.