Soybean

What is soy?

Soy is a legume that originates from East Asia and can be processed into various products. The best known are

• Soy milk
• soy yoghurt
• tofu
• Soy sprouts
• Soy flour
• Soy bread
• Soy sauce
• Soybean oil

Soybeans contain a lot of high-quality protein, which is comparable to that of meat. They also provide many vitamins, minerals and trace elements that are important for your dog's health.

Can dogs eat soy?

Yes, dogs can eat soy as long as they are not allergic or intolerant to it. Most dogs tolerate soy well and can benefit from it. Soy can be a good alternative, especially for dogs that are allergic to animal protein.

However, you should make sure that you only give your dog cooked soybeans or unsweetened and unseasoned soy products. Raw soybeans contain toxic substances that dissolve when cooked. Sweetened or flavored products may contain sugar or salt, which can be harmful to your dog.

What are the benefits of soy for dogs?

Soy has a number of benefits for dogs, which we present to you here:

• Soy is a plant-based protein source. This means that it contains less fat and cholesterol than animal protein. This can be good for dogs that are prone to obesity or cardiovascular problems.
• Soy is hypoallergenic. This means that it is less likely to cause allergies than other protein sources. This can be good for dogs that are allergic to meat or other animal products.
• Soy is sustainable. This means that it uses fewer resources and causes less environmental damage than animal farming. This can be good for you if you care about the planet.

What are the disadvantages of soy for dogs?

Soy also has some disadvantages for dogs that you should be aware of:

• Soy can cause digestive problems. This is because soy is difficult to digest and can cause bloating or diarrhea. This can happen especially in dogs that are not used to soy or are given too much of it.
• Soy can lead to hormonal imbalances. This is because soy contains phytoestrogens, which can have a similar effect to the female hormone oestrogen. This can lead to problems such as hypothyroidism or growth disorders, especially in neutered dogs or puppies.
• Soy can be genetically modified. This is because the majority of soybeans grown worldwide are genetically modified to make them more resistant to pests or herbicides. This can pose health risks for your dog or raise ethical concerns.