Can Dogs Have Canned Beans? What Pet Parents Need to Know

Dogs are part of our families, and we often want to share our food with them. When I’m opening a can of beans for my chili, my dog Baxter always gives me those pleading eyes. But should I give in? Can dogs have canned beans safely? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about feeding your furry friend canned beans.

The Quick Answer

Yes dogs can eat certain types of beans but canned beans should be limited due to their high sodium content. While beans themselves offer protein and fiber benefits for dogs, the sodium in canned beans can be problematic, especially for dogs with heart conditions.

Benefits of Beans for Dogs

Beans can actually be quite nutritious for your pup when served properly

• Protein source: Beans provide plant-based protein essential for muscle and tissue repair
• Fiber-rich: They promote digestive health and can help with weight management
• Vitamin-packed: Beans contain iron, potassium, magnesium, and folate
• Antioxidant properties: Help boost your dog’s immune system
• Low in fat: Good for dogs who need to watch their weight

As Dr. Sandra Mitchell from PetMD notes “When cooked plain beans can be a great source of protein and fiber for Fido while being low in fat.”

The Problem with Canned Beans

While beans themselves are generally safe, canned beans come with some significant drawbacks:

High sodium content: The biggest issue! A 1/2 cup serving of canned beans can contain 600-800mg of sodium. That’s almost half the daily recommended limit for humans, and way too much for dogs.

Excessive sodium can lead to:

• Increased blood pressure
• Fluid retention
• Strain on heart and kidneys
• Increased risk of heart disease

According to the experts at The Kitchen Know How, “For dogs prone to heart problems or on sodium-restricted diets, canned bean options are particularly dangerous. But even healthy dogs will consume unhealthy levels if fed canned beans regularly.”

Which Beans Are Safe for Dogs?

Not all beans are created equal when it comes to canine consumption. Here’s what your dog can safely enjoy (when prepared properly):

✅ Safe Beans for Dogs:

• Green beans (technically a vegetable, not a bean!)
• Black beans
• Kidney beans (cooked only)
• Lima beans
• Pinto beans
• Garbanzo beans (chickpeas)
• Navy beans
• Soybeans/Edamame

❌ Beans to Avoid:

• Raw beans (toxic to dogs)
• Refried beans (contains harmful spices and too much fat)
• Baked beans (contains sugar and potentially harmful ingredients)
• Chili beans (contains onions, garlic, and spices toxic to dogs)
• Coffee beans (contains caffeine, very toxic to dogs)

Jan Dempsey, Purina Senior Nutritionist, explains, “Beans have to be prepared the way they would be for people. Beans already contain a lot of fiber, but uncooked they are almost indigestible.”

How to Safely Feed Beans to Your Dog

If you still want to share beans with your pup, here’s the safest approach:

Best Preparation Methods

1. Cook dried beans at home rather than using canned
2. If using canned beans occasionally, rinse thoroughly to remove some sodium (can reduce sodium by up to 40%)
3. Look for low-sodium canned options if you must use canned
4. Never add seasonings, salt, oil, or butter – plain is best
5. Mash beans well to prevent choking hazards

Proper Serving Sizes

Remember, beans should only make up a small portion of your dog’s diet (less than 10% of daily calories). Here are some guidelines:

• Small dogs: 1-2 tablespoons maximum per day
• Medium dogs: Up to 1/4 cup maximum per day
• Large dogs: Up to 1/2 cup maximum per day

Introducing Beans Gradually

When adding any new food to your dog’s diet, start small:

1. Begin with just a teaspoon of mashed beans mixed into regular food
2. Monitor for any digestive issues (gas, bloating, diarrhea)
3. Gradually increase amount if no problems occur
4. Stop immediately if you notice any adverse reactions

Signs Your Dog Isn’t Tolerating Beans Well

Keep an eye out for these symptoms after feeding beans:

• Excessive gas
• Bloating
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Lethargy
• Signs of discomfort

If you notice any of these, stop feeding beans and consult your veterinarian.

FAQs About Dogs and Beans

Can dogs eat canned black beans?

Yes, dogs can eat black beans, but they have a difficult time digesting them in large quantities. If using canned black beans, rinse thoroughly to remove excess sodium.

Are canned kidney beans safe for dogs?

Cooked kidney beans are safe for dogs in moderation. However, canned kidney beans contain high sodium, so fresh cooked is preferable. Never feed raw kidney beans as they’re toxic to dogs.

Can beans make dogs sick?

Beans prepared with spices, fat, or in large quantities can make dogs sick. Some dogs may also have bean allergies or sensitivities. Raw beans contain phytohemagglutinin, which is toxic to dogs.

Can dogs eat lima beans?

Yes, dogs can eat lima beans when properly cooked. Dried lima beans are not suitable as they can damage teeth and cause digestive issues.

Can beans replace meat in my dog’s diet?

No! As noted by Purina’s nutritionists, “Dogs can eat soybeans, but feeding just beans is bad for dogs if it’s replacing meat in their diet. Feeding dogs a diet rich in soybeans, like a human vegetarian diet, won’t give your dog the quality protein he needs.”

The Bottom Line

While beans themselves offer nutritional benefits for dogs, canned beans pose significant risks due to their high sodium content. If you want to share beans with your furry friend:

• Choose home-cooked dried beans instead of canned when possible
• If using canned beans, rinse thoroughly and give only occasionally in small amounts
• Always introduce new foods gradually
• Monitor for any digestive issues

When in doubt, always check with your veterinarian before adding new foods to your dog’s diet. Every dog is different, and what works for one might not work for another.

Remember, as PetMD advises: “Always check with your veterinarian first before giving your dog any new foods, especially ‘people foods.’ What might be OK for one dog might not be good for your dog, depending on multiple factors, such as their age, health history, health conditions, and diet.”

I’ve found that my own dog enjoys a few black beans mixed with his kibble as an occasional treat, but I always make sure to cook them myself to avoid the sodium issues. What about your pup? Have you tried sharing beans with them?