Can Dogs Eat Chickpeas?

Plain chickpeas are not listed as poisonous to dogs by the vet sources we read, so a few as a treat should be fine for most dogs. The risk is what comes with them. Salt, garlic, and onion (which can show up in canned chickpeas and hummus) can make dogs sick.

Are plain chickpeas okay for dogs?

Plain chickpeas, with nothing added, are the only kind to consider. We could not find a veterinary source that gives an exact safe amount, so we won’t make one up. Start with one or two and watch how your dog does.

The AKC gives similar advice for another bean, edamame: serve it plain, with no salt, spice, or oil, and begin with only a few. It’s a sensible way to approach chickpeas too.

Why salt, garlic, and onion are the problem

Most chickpea dishes are not plain. Here is what the sources say about the extras:

• Salt. The ASPCA says too much salt can cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, and even death. It can also make dogs very thirsty and make them pee more.
• Garlic and onion. The ASPCA says these can upset the stomach and damage red blood cells, which can lead to anemia (too few red blood cells). Pet Poison Helpline says poisonous amounts of garlic do the same. It also notes that Japanese breeds such as Akitas and Shiba Inus are more sensitive.

Is there a heart disease concern?

Possibly, if chickpeas become a big part of the diet. Since 2018, the FDA has looked into reports of a heart disease called dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) in dogs. Many of the dogs ate foods that were grain-free and had a lot of peas, lentils, other beans, or potatoes. Chickpeas are in that group.

The FDA says the reports are not enough to prove a cause. The AKC quotes a veterinary expert who says there is no proof that these ingredients cause DCM in most dogs. So a treat now and then is not the worry. A food built on chickpeas is something to talk over with your vet.

Other kinds of chickpeas

Can dogs eat canned chickpeas?

Only with care. We found no vet source on canned chickpeas themselves. But the ASPCA warns about salt, and canned foods can have salt added. Check the label for salt and other seasonings. If it lists salt, skip it. Even without salt, your dog should only get a small amount.

Can dogs eat hummus?

No. Hummus often has garlic, and some kinds have onion. Both can damage a dog’s red blood cells. A lick off a finger is unlikely to be a big dose, but a spoonful or a tub is a reason to call your vet. Don’t offer it on purpose.

Can dogs eat dried or raw chickpeas?

We could not find a vet source on dried or raw chickpeas, so we can’t say they are okay. Skip them and ask your vet.

Can dogs eat chick peas?

“Chick peas” is just another way to write chickpeas. They are also called garbanzo beans. Everything above applies.

What to do if your dog ate chickpeas

• Plain chickpeas: A few usually need no action. Watch your dog for stomach upset.
• Canned with salt, or a seasoned dish: Look at the label and call your vet if your dog ate a lot.
• Hummus or anything with garlic or onion: Call your vet or a hotline. Garlic and onion can upset the stomach, and a vet can check your dog for anemia.

Call your vet right away if you see a cough, trouble breathing, or low energy. These can be signs of heart disease, not just a tummy ache.

Other treats to try

Dogs do not need chickpeas. If you want a snack to share, see our guide to foods that are toxic to dogs first so you know what to avoid. Our guides on apples and bananas cover two easy treats.