Can dogs eat it?
Can dogs eat lentils?
Last updated 23 September 2026 · How we write and check this
Short answer
Cooked, plain lentils are safe for dogs in modest amounts. Red, green, brown and puy lentils all work once boiled until soft. They add fiber and some protein but can cause gas, so a spoonful is plenty. Lentil soups and dals usually contain onion, garlic and spices, which rule them out.
Cooking lentils
Rinse dried lentils and boil them in plain water. Red lentils soften in about 15 minutes, while green and brown take 25 to 30. Drain and cool. Raw lentils should not be given, as they are hard and contain compounds that cooking breaks down.
Cooked lentils have about 115 calories per 100 g.
How much is sensible
One teaspoon of cooked lentils suits a small dog of about 5 kg (11 lb). A tablespoon suits a 15 to 20 kg (33 to 44 lb) dog. Large dogs can have up to two tablespoons mixed into a meal. More than that often leads to loose stools and flatulence, particularly the first few times.
Lentils in commercial dog foods
Many grain-free dog foods use lentils, peas and other legumes as major ingredients. Since 2018, researchers and regulators have been looking at a possible link between some legume-rich diets and a heart condition called dilated cardiomyopathy. The picture is not settled. A spoonful of lentils as a treat is a very different thing from a diet built around them, but if you have questions about your dog's food, ask your vet.
Dal, soups and stews
Lentil dal is typically cooked with onion, garlic, ginger and spices, and finished with ghee. Lentil soup usually starts with onion and stock. These are best kept for people. Cook a small plain portion separately if you want to share.
Signs lentils do not agree with your dog
Some dogs cope well with legumes, while others become gassy, bloated or develop loose stools even after a spoonful. Watch for rumbling tummies, frequent wind and softer stools in the 24 hours after a first taste. If you see these, drop lentils from the menu and stick to lighter vegetables.
Key takeaways
- Plain cooked lentils are safe in small amounts.
- Never feed raw lentils.
- Lentils can cause gas, so start with a spoonful.
- Dal and lentil soups usually contain onion and garlic.