Skip to main content

Can dogs eat green beans? You’ll want to learn more before making this snack

Here's what to know before offering this veggie to your pet

a man serving pregnant woman in black dress food with dog underfoot
Amina Filkins / Pexels

Fad diets are par for the course in the human world. Yet, they exist for dogs, too. The green bean diet had a moment in 2010. The diet involved gradually swapping green beans for a portion of a dog’s regular food. The pet parent increases the portion of green beans and decreases the amount of regular food in increments until the dog reaches the desired weight.

Veterinarians disapprove of the diet. What about green beans, though? Can dogs eat green beans?

Recommended Videos

Green beans are indeed a nutrient-dense food for humans. The vegetable contains vitamins A, C, K, B6, and B9 (folates) and minerals, such as calcium, iron, potassium, and manganese. However, even so-called superfoods for humans, like avocados, pose health risks for dogs, and we want what’s best for our furry family members. Let’s dig into whether green beans are healthy — or even safe — for dogs.

Can dogs eat green beans?

yellow lab in kitchen with wood floor getting pet
Samson Katt / Pexels

Some human foods are toxic for dogs, but green beans aren’t one of them. Plain green beans are generally safe for dogs and can even qualify as a healthy treat for pups. The keyword is treat, though, and there are a few caveats to consider before serving a dog green beans.

Are green beans healthy for dogs?

The vitamins and minerals in green beans offer health perks for dogs. Green beans boast:

  • Fiber (digestion)
  • Protein (muscle development and coat)
  • Vitamin A (vision)
  • Vitamin C (immune health)

Additionally, fiber and protein can help with feelings of fullness, making a dog less likely to overeat. Green beans are also low in calories.

Notably, dogs don’t need these vitamins through green beans or any human food. A standard dog food with the AAFCO seal has all the nutrients most dogs need to thrive, and your vet can give you the best insights on nutrition for your pet if they need a specialized diet.

Green bean safety risk

Healthy treats can still pose safety hazards. Green beans are no exception, especially when prepared using certain ingredients, such as:

  • Green beans with salt, which is often the case with canned vegetables
  • Green beans cooked with oils and seasonings, like garlic and onions
  • Large, whole green beans present a choking risk.

Additionally, pet parents will want to consider their dog’s weight before serving them green beans.

Many dogs are overweight or obese and at a higher risk for chronic conditions, including joint pain, heart disease, and diabetes. Dog parents want to give their pets the healthiest life possible, including assisting with weight loss efforts when possible. Green beans have fiber, protein, and few calories. Sounds like a slam dunk for weight loss, right?

Not necessarily. Green beans should be considered a treat since a dog’s vital nutrients come from their standard dog food. Ensure that about 90% of your dog’s food comes from their regular food. The rest can come from low-calorie treats, and green beans fit that bill. A vet may recommend fewer treats for dogs that need to lose weight.

How to serve green beans to a dog

pug standing on wood floor kitchen
Ivan Babydov / Pexels

Now that you know the pros and cons of green beans for dogs, you can decide whether you want to offer them as a treat. If the answer is yes, take these steps to make the experience a delicious (and safe) one for your pet.

  •  Wash the green beans. You might already take this step for yourself because green beans can have pesticide remnants. Do the same for your pet.
  • Lower choking risks. Reduce choking odds by slicing green beans into smaller, thin slices.
  • Start small. Gradually introducing green beans to your pet lets you monitor how they take to the treat and avoid overfeeding.
  • Don’t season. Avoid seasonings like garlic and onions. (Reminder: They’re toxic.) Other seasonings can cause tummy aches, which aren’t fatal (but also aren’t fun).

Look for signs of discomfort like vomiting and diarrhea. If your dog displays these symptoms after eating green beans, this veggie may not be suitable for your pet. Also, decrease the number of green beans you share if your pet stops eating their regular food.

Final thoughts on dogs and green beans

woman in yellow pants training white dog
Anna Tarazevich / Pexels

Green beans are a nutritious dish for humans, and they have vitamins and minerals that also offer health benefits for dogs. Think of filling fiber and muscle-building protein. Yet, dogs get everything they need to thrive from standard dog food, so pet parents will want to consider green beans a low-calorie treat.

Additionally, plain green beans are the safest type to serve to a dog. Green beans seasoned with salt (including canned green beans), garlic, and onion pose health risks to dogs. Dogs that are obese may need to steer clear of treats or have fewer than pets at a healthy weight. Your pet’s vet is your best resource for nutrition advice.

BethAnn Mayer
Beth Ann's work has appeared on healthline.com and parents.com. In her spare time, you can find her running (either marathons…
Can dogs eat turkey? Be careful this Thanksgiving
Here's what to be aware of when feeding your dog Thanksgiving food
Yellow Lab begs at the Thanksgiving table

As everyone gathers around the table for this year’s Thanksgiving feast, make sure your four-legged family members are included, too. Not all people food is safe for dogs, so it will take a little more thought and effort than just tossing over some table scraps.
Can dogs eat turkey? If you're wondering whether pups can snack on poultry or other Thanksgiving fare, you'll just want to be sure whatever you're giving them is safe. A lot of the ingredients and dishes that are already on your table can be slightly modified to be made safe for your pup, so preparing people food for dogs can be easier than you think. Read on to get some canine-friendly ideas for feeding your dog on this yummy, cozy holiday. Remember to be grateful for your pup, too!
Here are some of the best (and worst) Thanksgiving foods for dogs.

Can dogs eat turkey? How to prepare Thanksgiving turkey for dogs

Read more
Chicken and rice: When (and how) to make it for your dog
It's great for a pup who is feeling under the weather
A girl bends down to hand a Dalmatian a bowl of food in front of a pink wall

Turns out, there’s a meal that everyone at home will enjoy! Chicken and rice is a simple yet delectable combination of comfort food that’s not only tasty for dogs but beneficial for them, too. With their neutral properties, they're an especially enticing meal option when Fido isn’t feeling quite himself, even though perfectly healthy dogs enjoy this delicacy as well.
Despite the popularity of chicken and rice for dogs, there’s still so much to know. Switching your dog’s food is no small matter, and it should be done with utmost care. Nonetheless, you won’t get an argument from your pup when you give him this yummy meal!

Why you should feed your dog chicken and rice

Read more
Here’s why old dogs have seizures and how you can best help them
A seizure looks scary but you and your pup can manage through them together
Chocolate brown Labrador retriever with a graying muzzle

With their graying muzzles and laid-back demeanors, old dogs have a dignified air you don't see in young, hyper puppies. You've been through a lot with your dog, and you want to ensure he maintains the best quality of life for as long as possible.

Seeing your old dog having seizures is alarming, but we have some good news. While your pup may feel frightened and confused during a seizure, he's not in any pain. Whether your dog has a history of seizures or this is the first one he's had, here's what you need to know about seizures in older dogs. 
Is it common for old dogs to have seizures?

Read more