Split Peas for Dogs: A Complete Guide
Split peas — which are dried, husked and split field peas — have been cultivated by humans across Europe and Asia since at least 2,000 BC. In medieval and early modern Europe, “pease porridge” (a thick soup made from boiled split peas) was a staple food for the working class. Working dogs, farm dogs and hounds commonly ate leftover porridges, grains and legume scraps mixed with offal or stale bread.
The modern history of dogs consuming split peas on a large scale began with the “grain-free” marketing boom of the late 2000s and 2010s. As consumer demand shifted away from corn, wheat and soy, pet food manufacturers needed cheap, high-protein and high-starch alternatives to bind kibble together. They turned heavily to pulses — specifically split peas, whole field peas, pea flour, pea fibre and pea protein.
Can dogs eat split peas?
Yes, dogs can eat split peas, says our in-house dog nutritionist. Like other legumes, split peas provide a healthy extra source of amino acids and plant protein for dogs. They contain soluble and insoluble fibre that supports healthy bowel movements and digestion together with helpful nutrients such as B vitamins, iron, potassium and zinc and are an invaluable source of plant protein for any dog fed a purely plant-based diet.
Health benefits of split peas for dogs
Feeding dogs split peas provides a safe and nutritious source of plant-based protein, dietary fibre and essential vitamins and minerals for dogs.
Key health benefits of split peas for dogs include:
- Digestive health support: the rich dietary fibre content of split peas regulates digestion and helps ease both constipation and loose stools.
- Weight management: high fibre and protein help your dog feel full after eating which curbs begging behaviours between meals.
- Blood sugar stability: the low glycaemic index slows down carbohydrate breakdown, helping to maintain steady glucose levels throughout the day which greatly benefits dogs suffering from diabetes.
- Heart health maintenance: natural potassium and dietary fibre contribute to lower cholesterol and stable blood.
How many split peas can dogs eat?
As with any other legumes, split peas should not make up any more than 10 percent of your dog’s daily calorie intake.
Please read “The 10 percent Rule of Homemade Dog Food” for further information.
That said, there are nutritional benefits to combining split peas with other legumes within the same meal to make a more complete nutrient profile.
How to feed a dog split peas
To feed your dog split peas, always use dried split peas and boil or steam them until they are completely soft.
Preparing split peas for dogs:
1. Rinse the dried split peas thoroughly in clean water to remove any dust or debris.
2. Place the rinsed peas in a pot, cover them with water and bring them to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat and simmer the peas for 20 to 30 minutes or until they are completely tender and soft.
4. Cool the cooked split peas completely before serving.
5. If required, mash the cooked split peas gently with a fork to help your dog digest them easily and absorb the nutrients better.
Frequently asked questions
Q. Are split peas safe for dogs to eat?
A. Yes, cooked split peas are safe for most healthy dogs.
Q. Can dogs eat raw or dried split peas?
A. No. Splits peas for dogs must always be cooked.
Q. What are the health benefits of split peas for dogs?
A. Split peas offer several nutritional benefits:
They are rich in soluble and insoluble fibre which aids digestion and helps dogs feel fuller for longer.
They provide an extra boost of plant-based protein to help maintain muscle tissues.
Split peas are packed with essential nutrients like potassium, iron, zinc and B vitamins.
Split peas are naturally low in fat and calories, making them a great option for weight management.
Q. How should I prepare split peas for my dog?
A. Cook the split peas thoroughly until they are completely soft.
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