Can Dogs Eat Edamame Shells?

Dogs are surprisingly intelligent and warm.

Most of them are playful and affectionate but also fierce protectors.

We embrace them as part of the family and make them our friends. 

When preparing edamame for lunch or supper, you may decide to include your fluffy companions by giving them the shells.

However, you are not sure if edamame shells are healthy for them.

Yes, dogs can have edamame shells, but in moderation.

They contain fiber, protein, iron, and magnesium.

Give them sparingly because they are tough and cause digestive problems.

This article will examine whether different dog groups can eat edamame shells, their nutritional value, and other healthy treats.

Can Dogs Eat Edamame Shells

Can puppies eat edamame shells?

Yes, puppies can eat edamame shells in small quantities.

They contain protein vital for their growth and development.

Avoid choking and intestinal blockage.

Call your veterinarian for advice if the puppies eat too many edamame shells. 

When feeding your puppy edamame shells for the first time,  give a small portion, then observe their reaction.

If they show any sickly symptoms, stop feeding them with the edamame shell and settle for other healthy foods.

Edamame Shells

Can dogs with constipation eat edamame shells?

Yes, dogs with constipation can eat edamame shell.

They are rich in dietary fiber that helps in digestion and prevents constipation. 

However, too much of its fiber content can cause constipation. 

To determine how much edamame shells you should give your dog, use their age and body size.

For instance, older dogs should have more than younger ones.

Moreover, adhere to the treat rule by giving only 10% edamame shells in their diet.

Can elderly dogs eat edamame shells?

Yes, elderly dogs can have edamame shells.

They contain nutrients that are beneficial to elderly dogs.

Calcium helps elderly dogs to maintain healthy bones because they wear out as the dog gets older.

The dietary fiber helps digestion as the elderly dogs are more prone to digestive problems than the younger ones.

Nutritional value of edamame shells

Protein 

Protein helps the dogs’  body repair damaged cells and build new ones.

It’s also a building block for muscles and other tissues in your body.

Getting enough protein may help dogs maintain a healthy weight by helping them feel full longer, thus avoiding overeating.

Dietary Fiber

Fiber helps regulate bowel movements in dogs by adding bulk to the stool and making it easier to pass.

It also promotes healthy cholesterol levels by reducing the amount of cholesterol absorbed from food in the intestine.

Calcium

Calcium is a mineral that plays an essential role in building strong bones and teeth.

It is also necessary for muscle contraction, blood clotting, and transmitting messages through the nervous system.

Iron

Iron is a mineral that binds with oxygen in red blood cells to carry it throughout your body where it’s needed most — in muscles and organs where energy production occurs.

Iron deficiency can cause anemia Signs of iron deficiency include pale gums, weakness, fatigue, and loss of appetite.

Magnesium

Magnesium is a mineral that helps develop bones and teeth, helps muscles contract, and supports a healthy immune system.

Alternative treats for dogs besides edamame shells

Sweet Potato: Sweet potatoes are full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

They’re also a good source of fiber and contain vitamin C.

Apples: Apples make an excellent treat because they’re full of fiber and antioxidants.

Plus, they help clean teeth! Antioxidants help support the immune system, and fiber keeps your dog’s digestive system healthy.

Peanut Butter: This is the perfect treat for dogs who love peanut butter.

It’s full of protein — just make sure you choose natural peanut butter without added sugars or salt.

It is also an excellent source of vitamin E, which helps protect against heart disease.

Broccoli: Broccoli is packed with vitamins A and C, calcium, iron, and potassium.

It also helps clean teeth by removing plaque buildup on teeth.

Plain Yogurt: Yogurt is another great source of calcium for your dog — it helps build strong bones and teeth.

It is also a source of probiotics that help aid digestion and boost your dogs’ immune system. 

Mango: Mango is a sweet tropical fruit rich in vitamin C, potassium, and antioxidants.

They are also high in fiber and may help lower cholesterol levels.

Blueberries: Blueberries are high in antioxidants which help improve memory and cognitive function, reduce inflammation and protect against heart disease. 

Ways to serve edamame shells

Crushing the edamame shells

Crush the edamame shells into small pieces before serving them to your dog so he can easily digest them.

You can crush the edamame shells into small pieces with the back of a spoon.

Otherwise, you can crush them by placing them in a plastic bag and rolling over them with a rolling pin or hammering them with a mallet. 

Milling

You can mill the edamame shells into powder when they are dry.

Milling makes it easier for your dog to eat them without choking on any hard parts of the shell.

You can crush the shells in a mortar, pestle, or blender if you don’t want to mill them yourself.

  • Serving along with other foods

Sprinkling the powder on other foods like chicken or beef will make the taste more appealing to your dog, especially if he has never had edamame before.

Otherwise, you can serve some boiled edamame shells along with other vegetables.

Can edamame shells cause any risks to dogs?

Yes, edamame shells can pose a danger to your dogs due to their toughness and size.

If too much is eaten, it may cause blockages in your dog’s digestive tract.

There is also the risk of choking, especially for younger dogs.

To safely serve your dogs with edamame shells, cut them into small pieces if still raw or crushed if dry.

When you notice that many edamame shells have been swallowed, call a veterinarian immediately to rule out a blockage and choking.

You can also look out for other symptoms such as stomach gurgling or rumbling noises.

Conclusion 

Hopefully, this article has helped you know whether dogs can eat edamame seeds.

The next time you prepare a delicious meal using edamame, don’t throw the shells away.

Ensure you safely serve them to avoid choking and internal blockage, leading to fatal consequences.

Remember that edamame shell should not be served as a main meal, but rather a treat that should not exceed 10% of their diet.

Megan Turner

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