Can Dogs Eat Peas? Benefits, Risks, and the FDA Investigation

The Short Answer

Peas are one of those foods where the answer is “yes, but let me explain.” Cooper gets frozen peas as training treats sometimes — they’re the perfect size, he loves them, and at about 1 calorie per pea, I don’t have to worry about overdoing the treats during a long training session. But the FDA investigation has made a lot of dog owners nervous, and understandably so. Let me walk you through what we actually know.

Types of Peas That Are Safe for Dogs

• Green peas (garden peas) — fresh or frozen, both work great
• Snow peas — flat pods that are entirely edible
• Sugar snap peas — crunchy pods with sweet peas inside
• Split peas — cooked only, as part of a meal (not as a primary ingredient)
• Frozen peas — actually the most convenient option, and dogs love the cold crunch

Avoid canned peas. They’re typically loaded with sodium, which isn’t great for dogs. If canned is all you have, rinse them thoroughly under running water before serving.

Nutritional Benefits of Peas

Peas pack an impressive nutritional punch for such a tiny vegetable:

• Vitamins A, B1, B6, C, and K — supporting everything from vision to immune function
• Iron — essential for healthy red blood cells
• Zinc — supports immune health and skin condition
• Potassium — important for muscle and heart function
• Fiber — promotes healthy digestion
• Protein — higher plant protein than many other vegetables (about 5g per half cup)
• Lutein — an antioxidant that supports eye and skin health

The FDA Grain-Free Diet Investigation

In 2018, the FDA began investigating reports of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) — a serious heart condition — in dogs eating grain-free diets. Many of these diets use peas, lentils, and other legumes as primary ingredients to replace grains. This understandably alarmed a lot of dog owners.

Here’s what the research has found so far:

• The link is not fully proven. The FDA found a statistical association between grain-free diets high in legumes and DCM cases, but hasn’t established a direct cause-and-effect relationship.
• It’s about concentration, not occasional feeding. The concern is with diets where peas and legumes are among the top ingredients — meaning your dog is eating large amounts every single day. Giving your dog a handful of peas as a treat is a completely different situation.
• Taurine may be involved. Some researchers believe that high legume content might interfere with taurine absorption or synthesis. Taurine is an amino acid critical for heart function.
• Breed matters. Certain breeds (Golden Retrievers, Doberman Pinschers, Great Danes) appear more susceptible to diet-related DCM.
• The investigation is ongoing. As of 2025, the FDA has not issued a definitive conclusion. They continue to monitor and investigate.

When to Avoid Peas

While peas are safe for most dogs, there are a few situations where you should be cautious:

• Dogs with kidney issues. Peas contain purines, which produce uric acid when metabolized. Dogs with kidney disease or a history of urate kidney stones should avoid peas.
• Dogs prone to gas. Like all legumes, peas can cause gas and bloating in some dogs. If your dog is already gassy, peas might make things worse.
• Dogs on grain-free diets. If your dog’s food already lists peas or pea protein as a top ingredient, you’re better off choosing a different treat to avoid excessive legume intake.

How to Serve Peas to Your Dog

• Frozen peas — straight from the bag. No cooking needed. Perfect for training or hot days.
• Fresh peas — rinse and serve. Snow peas and sugar snaps can be given whole to larger dogs; cut them for small dogs.
• Steamed peas — lightly steamed, then cooled. Easier to digest than raw for sensitive stomachs.
• Mashed into food — mix a spoonful of mashed peas into regular food for added nutrition.
• Pea puree ice cubes — blend peas with water, freeze in ice cube trays. A fun enrichment treat on hot days.

How Much Peas Can Dogs Have?

• Small dogs: a tablespoon of peas per serving
• Medium dogs: 2-3 tablespoons
• Large dogs: up to a quarter cup

As with any treat, follow the 10% rule: treats (including peas) shouldn’t make up more than 10% of your dog’s daily calories.

Related Reading

Want to explore more healthy vegetable options for your dog? Our guides on green beans, carrots, and spinach cover other excellent choices. For the bigger picture, check out our complete guide to human foods dogs can eat and our toxic foods list to keep your dog safe.