No, hummus is not safe for dogs. While the primary components of hummus, such as tahini and chickpeas, are safe for dogs, hummus also contains large amounts of garlic, which is very harmful to your pet. Furthermore, hummus also contains different types of spices that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal issues in dogs.
Caution: This food is generally considered risky by the veterinary community. Dogs should not eat this food and should be monitored for adverse effects.
| Food Safety | Exercise caution, avoid feeding |
| Nutritional Issues | Thiosulfate from garlic, sodium from salt, fat from oil |
| Potential Risks | gastroenteritis, thiosulfate poisoning, pancreatitis |
| Poisoning Symptoms | weight gain, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain, anemia |
Feeding Hummus to Dogs
Hummus is a popular Middle Eastern dip which traces its roots back to ancient times, with the earliest recorded recipes dating as far back as the 13th century. The dish is traditionally made by blending garbanzo beans, also known as chickpeas, with tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and spices, resulting in a creamy spread that’s enjoyed by humans, but is unsafe to dogs because the seasonings. Unseasoned and cooked chickpeas are safe for dogs. Make sure to use unseasoned canned chickpeas as too much sodium is dangerous to your pup.
How Much Hummus Is Unsafe for Dogs?
While a couple of tablespoons of plain hummus made solely from chickpeas will be okay for dogs, but even a small amount of hummus with garlic and other ingredients will harm your dog’s health since garlic is toxic to canines. Therefore, it is either best to stay away from it or look for dog-friendly alternatives with no oil, garlic, and other condiments.
Garlic contains thiosulfate, which is a poison and can be fatal to your dog, even in small amounts. According to the Animal Poison Control Center as little as 5 grams of garlic per kilogram of dog weight can be toxic to your dog.
What Makes Hummus Unsafe?
Traditional hummus can be dangerous to your dog as it includes citric acid, red pepper, cumin, or other ingredients that are bad for your dog’s stomach. Furthermore, the garlic inside hummus can lead to hemolytic anemia or renal failure in dogs if eaten in large amounts.
Signs Your Dog Ate Too Much Hummus
Too much hummus may elevate your dog’s blood pressure and calorie intake, resulting in fast weight gain. Other signs that confirm your dog ate too much hummus include abdominal discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhea. All of these are common symptoms of gastrointestinal problems. Check the label to see if the variety of hummus consumed contained garlic. If so, take your dog to the pet urgent care immediately.
Common Hummus Ingredients
- Chickpeas/Garbanzo beans: Both chickpeas and garbanzo beans are a great source of protein and other nutrients and are safe for dogs.
- Salt: Eating large amounts of salt can lead to heart and cardiovascular issues in dogs in the long term.
- Garlic: Garlic is highly toxic for dogs and can cause anemia and liver failure.
- Spices: Certain spices can cause diarrhea and vomiting in dogs, including paprika which is a common ingredient in hummus.
- Olive oil: Olive oil is typically safe for dogs in moderation. In fact, it’s a great source of healthy fatty acids.
Can Dogs Eat Chickpeas?
Yes! Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, can provide health benefits for dogs when consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced diet. The following are potential risks to consider.
Health benefits:
- Protein source: Chickpeas are a good source of plant-based protein, which is essential for maintaining muscle mass and overall health in dogs.
- Fiber: Chickpeas contain dietary fiber, which can aid in digestion and help maintain healthy bowel movements.
- Nutrient-rich: Chickpeas are packed with essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, magnesium, and potassium, which can contribute to overall health and well-being.
Potential risks:
- Gastrointestinal issues: Overconsumption of chickpeas can cause gastrointestinal discomfort in dogs, including gas, bloating, and diarrhea.
- Allergies: Some dogs may be allergic to chickpeas, which could lead to skin irritations, itching, or other allergic reactions.
- Weight gain: Chickpeas are relatively high in calories, and overfeeding can contribute to weight gain, which can lead to obesity and associated health problems.
Final Thoughts
You can safely include chickpeas or unflavored hummus in your dog’s diet, but it is important to start with a small amount and monitor your pet’s reaction. It’s always best to consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new food into your dog’s diet, as they can provide tailored advice based on your pet’s specific needs and health conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Nothing will happen if your dog eats only a couple of spoons of hummus. However, if the hummus contains large amounts of garlic, it can cause anemia and organ failure in dogs.
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Chickpeas are generally safe for dogs in moderation. In fact, they are a great source of fiber, protein, and other healthy nutrients.
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You can safely give your dog a couple of spoons of hummus. However, ensure that you’re only giving garlic-free hummus as an occasional treat.
