Can Yorkies eat quinoa?

Quinoa is a nutritious seed-grain that provides plant protein and fibre, and a small spoonful of plain cooked quinoa can be a wholesome addition. Two prep points matter. First, rinse it well before cooking — the natural coating (saponins) can taste bitter and upset a sensitive stomach. Second, cook it plain in water with no salt, oil, or seasoning; the quinoa salads and pilafs we make usually contain onion, garlic, or dressing that aren't dog-safe.

What Yorkie owners need to know

• Rinse quinoa well before cooking to remove the bitter saponin coating that can upset a stomach.
• Cook it plain in water — no salt, oil, garlic, onion, or seasoning.
• Introduce a small amount and watch for soft stools, as with any new grain.

How preparation changes the answer

Safe preparation

• Rinse the raw quinoa thoroughly in a fine sieve until the water runs clear.
• Simmer in plain water until soft and fluffy, with no salt or seasoning.
• Cool it and stir a small spoonful into their regular food.

Nutrition at a glance

Possible benefits

• Provides plant protein with all essential amino acids.
• Supplies fibre, iron, and magnesium.
• A wholesome grain alternative that's gluten-free for sensitive dogs.

Risks & things to watch

• The saponin coating can cause bitterness and stomach upset if not rinsed.
• Any new grain can cause soft stools if introduced too fast or in too large an amount.
• Seasoned quinoa dishes often contain onion, garlic, or salt that are harmful.

If your Yorkie ate too much

A little extra plain quinoa may just cause soft stools. If your dog ate seasoned quinoa with onion or garlic, or seems unwell, contact your vet.

Frequently asked questions