Dogs don’t need to eat flour, and it can cause allergies in many animals. But to help bind ingredients, flour is a common ingredient in dog foods and treats. You should rely more on whole-grain flours, which are made from whole grains and contain all of the grain’s natural nutrients.
Chickpea Flour (aka Garbanzo Bean Flour)
Chickpeas, either roasted or raw, are dried and ground to make chickpea flour. While varieties made from raw chickpeas can be a little bitter, those made from roasted chickpeas have a stronger flavor. In your recipes, you can essentially use either without noticing a difference.
It’s one of the most nutrient-dense gluten-free flours, with double the protein of whole wheat flour and a high fiber content. It’s also low in carbohydrates.
Vitamin B6, B9 (folate), iron, manganese, magnesium, potassium, selenium, and zinc are among the vitamins and minerals that are abundant in this food.
Coconut flour is the most consistent substitute for another gluten-free flour. Its pretty much a 1:1 exchange. Alternatively, you can combine the two when making dog cakes or treats.
Coconut flour is made from ground coconut meat (thats the white part of the coconut). Its a minimally processed low carb, gluten-free flour which is high in plant-based protein and even higher in fiber. Depending on the composition of any particular flour, the fiber content of coconut flour can be between 35% and 60%. Fiber slows sugar absorption and coconut flour can lower blood sugar levels, for at least a few hours after eating it.
Coconut flavor may or may not be detectable in coconut flour. The most likely type of coconut flour to be flavorless in this regard is pure, organic coconut flour.
Vitamin B6, folate (vitamin B9), vitamin C, niacin, calcium, potassium, phosphorus, manganese, and selenium are among the vitamins and minerals found in coconut flour. Its also a rich source of amino acids.
Since coconut flour absorbs up to four times its own weight in liquid, it is necessary to use more eggs, oil, and other liquids in dog treat recipes that call for whole-wheat flour in order to achieve the proper dough consistency. Try combining coconut flour and whole-wheat flour in a 2:1 ratio if your dog is not gluten-intolerant to account for its absorbency.
Since many coconut flours do have a faint coconut flavor, they’re a good option for treats for sweet-toothed dogs, especially those that incorporate fruit.
Oat flour, which is simply oats that have been finely ground, is a wholesome, gluten-free, high-carbohydrate, low-sugar flour that is easy on the majority of dogs’ digestive systems.
Oat flour is a great source of a variety of vital antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, including Vitamin B1, B6, Copper, Folate, Iron, Manganese, Magnesium, Niacin, Phosphorus, Selenium, and Zinc (some of which are specific to oats).
Treats may come out more moist because oat flour retains moisture more than whole-wheat flour. The recipes that call for other gluten-free flours can also be made lighter by substituting 1/4 cup of the flour with oat flour.
If stored in an airtight container, oat flour will remain fresh for about three months in a cool, dry cabinet or larder. Put it in the freezer, wrapped tightly, where it will keep for at least six months, or the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to four months.
I believe that using quinoa flour in dog treat recipes or dog food in general is debatable. It is a flour made from finely ground quinoa seeds that is free of gluten and grains.
A variety of minerals, including Copper, Folate, Iron, Manganese, Magnesium, Phosphorous, and Zinc are abundant in quinoa flour. Additionally, it contains all nine of the necessary amino acids, which are crucial for health.
Since it has a strong, earthy flavor, this flour is best used in savory dog treat recipes.
To defend itself from insects and fungi, the quinoa plant naturally produces a chemical called saponin, and some of this substance is still present in quinoa flour. According to some experts, this can irritate and inflame the gut in some people and dogs. Others dont agree, and evidence either way is scarce. Some dogs may find quinoa and quinoa flour to be somewhat difficult to digest.
Since there are so many wonderful gluten-free flour options for baking, I personally decide against using quinoa flour until the results of the research are clear. However, conduct your own research and base your decision there. Many dog owners are content to use quinoa flour in their recipes for both themselves and their dogs; this is a matter of preference.
Sorghum flour, which is made from finely ground whole grain sorghum and is considered an ancient grain, is naturally gluten-free.
It also contains a variety of vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins, niacin, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium, as well as being a good source of plant-based protein, antioxidants, and other nutrients.
Sorghum flour is not suitable for your dog if he has generalized grain sensitivities. Make sure that the flour you purchase has been processed in a gluten-free facility if he only has issues with gluten.
Sorghum flour can be used in recipes in a 1:1 ratio with whole-wheat flour, but since it is a grain-free flour, you will need something else to help bind the other ingredients. Egg whites or corn starch make good binder. Or, if your dog isn’t gluten-intolerant, combine sorghum flour and whole wheat flour.
For instance, due to its high absorbency, coconut flour is difficult to bake with on its own. Mixing coconut flour with whole wheat flour can fix this.
The shelf life of whole grain flours is significantly shorter than that of processed and bleached flours. Compared to white flour, whole wheat flour has a significantly higher fat content. Whole wheat flour only keeps for about three months in your pantry. It will last an additional few months if you store it in the refrigerator or freezer.
Among the most popular and easily accessible flours in your local supermarket are whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, bread flour, cake flour, and self-rising flour.
Compared to other types of flour, bread flour has a very high level of protein and gluten. Bread flour can replace most flours in an equal ratio. Due to its common use in perishable goods like scones, bread flour isn’t ideal for dog treats. Bread flour is not gluten-free.
Garbanzo bean flour, which is made from chickpeas, is excellent for dogs. One of the market’s highest nutrient-dense flours is this one. Chickpea flour is gluten-free.
What Flours Are Best For Dogs?
When it comes to selecting flour for your dogs, you have a lot of options. Each of them is advantageous in its own way and beneficial in various ways.
Choose a flour for your dog’s meal that will enhance their health and enjoyment if you decide to feed them some.
The top dog-friendly flours are listed below:
It is a great source of important vitamins and antioxidants and is simple to digest. Among the nutrients are phosphorus, folate, vitamin B1, and vitamin B1.
It is free of gluten, contains all nine essential amino acids, and provides fiber. A lot of magnesium, iron, manganese, phosphorus, and zinc are also present.
This flour is produced by milling the historic grain sorghum. It is a great source of plant-based protein and is high in antioxidants.
Instead of grains, this nutrient-rich flour is made from whole wheat seeds. It is rich in vitamin B6, phosphorus, and potassium.
This can replace wheat and is easy to prepare while still being healthy for your pet. It’s beneficial for canines who react negatively to other types of flour.
This is packed with nutrients like protein, vitamins, and minerals to enhance your dog’s quality of life. If your dog has allergies, you can use it because it is gluten-free. Additionally, it has a healthy amount of fiber and few carbohydrates.
It is an excellent source of plant-based protein. In addition, it has magnesium, manganese, iron, and zinc, making it a fantastic substitute for wheat or soy flour.
Due to the presence of tryptophan, which reduces inflammation and eases anxiety, this flour is excellent for dogs who require calming and relaxing effects. Additionally, pumpkin seed flour is rich in vital minerals like magnesium and phosphorus, which support the growth of strong bones.
By the way, if you want to spice up and enjoy your dog’s meal, try adding some boiled chicken breast.
FAQ
What kind of flour is safe for dogs?
Flour-based dog treats can give your pet vitamins, nutrients, and fiber to help with their digestion. Popular types of flour for homemade dog treats include whole wheat flour, oat flour, almond flour, and chickpea flour.
Is white or wheat flour better for dogs?
If you are aware that your dog is not allergic to wheat (a k. a. no wheat allergies), then white flour is an option. If your dog is allergic to wheat or you have reason to believe she might be, look for a substitute. White flour is not the best option available, though, even if your dog is not allergic to wheat.
Can dogs have treats made with whole wheat flour?
A wealth of proteins and glutens, as well as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other nutrients, can be found in whole wheat flour. It can essentially be used just like AP flour. Because of this, whole wheat flour is a great option for dog treats.