Soy products are very popular in human health foods, and soy is also a common ingredient in dog food. However, soy has been linked to a few health problems in dogs and other species (including humans).
Are soy-based foods safe for your dog? What about treats? The answer depends on whom you ask — as well as the dog in question.
The Case for Soy
Dog food sold in the US has to pass certain minimum standards for health and digestibility. Soy and soy products generally pass the tests. This means that dogs can digest soy, and soy has not been proven to do anything negative to dogs who eat it.
Soy is the most complete vegetable source of protein typically used in pet food manufacturing and is a more affordable source of protein than meat or eggs. As such, dog food companies like soy because it helps them to stay competitive with prices — and the saving is passed on to you!
The estrogen-like chemicals in soy products might have some small health benefits for dogs with specific medical conditions, though not much research has been done on this topic yet.
Some dogs with dietary sensitivities and allergies to other foods can eat soy, making soy-based dog foods useful for them. You can also find hypoallergenic diets with hydrolyzed soy protein. This hydrolyzed protein is helpful for lots of dogs with food allergies since the protein has been broken down, so the immune system doesn’t recognize it.
The Case Against Soy
The plant estrogens that make soy medically useful for some conditions also make it possibly dangerous for others. Some experts suggest that excessive soy consumption contains enough estrogen that it might provide some estrogen-like activity in your spayed or neutered pet. Depending on their stage of life and medical conditions, this may not be ideal.
Soy consumption may also contribute to slightly lower thyroid hormone levels, so if your dog has hypothyroidism, this may not be the best food.
Lastly, there are some dogs who have soy allergies and sensitivities, though this is rare.
Not All Soy is Alike
Traditionally, soybeans were fermented, a process that dramatically reduced their plant estrogen level and made them more digestible.
Modern commercial soy products are often chemically processed or separated into various fractions (to make things like tofu, for example). The use of texturized soy protein-based products is very common in both human and dog foods, and too much of this texturized soy product can lead to loose stools.
The Bottom Line
There is a lot of “maybe” here — soy has not been officially proven to be “unsafe” in dogs. So far, all we can say is that soy is a good protein and energy source and acceptable to use in dog food. But like many other things in life, moderation is ideal.
Researching soy products in dog food is difficult, in part because experts sometimes appear to contradict each other. There are many possible reasons for this kind of disagreement, in part because there is a lot we still don’t know, and different people use their judgment to put together the pieces differently.
Any dog who has ever rummaged through the trash, or gone outside unattended, has eaten things a lot worse than soy products. Unless your dog has a particular sensitivity, soy is a fine ingredient for their dog food. A soy-based dog food, or a homemade diet featuring soy, is a more complicated question, and has actually been used for therapeutic diets that include liver problems and allergies.
For help formulating your own educated opinion on the topic, speak with a vet who has a particular interest in diet (no vet knows everything, after all!), or a board-certified veterinary nutritionist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs have tofu or soy?
Yes, dogs can have tofu or soy in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Tofu and soy products can be a good source of protein for dogs, especially for those that have allergies or intolerances to other sources of protein such as chicken or beef. However, it's important to keep in mind that dogs have different nutritional requirements than humans, and their diets should be primarily based on animal-based protein sources. Also, some dogs may have trouble digesting soy products, so it's best to introduce them to your dog's diet gradually and monitor for any adverse reactions. Furthermore, tofu and soy products should never be the primary source of protein in a dog's diet. If you're considering adding tofu or soy to your dog's diet, it's best to consult with a veterinarian or a veterinary nutritionist to ensure that your dog is getting a balanced and healthy diet.
Can dogs eat meat with soy sauce?
It's not recommended to feed dogs meat with soy sauce or any other seasoning or sauce that contains high amounts of sodium or other ingredients that may be harmful to them. Soy sauce contains a high amount of sodium, which can be dangerous for dogs if consumed in large quantities. Moreover, some soy sauce brands may contain other ingredients like onion, garlic, or other flavorings that can be toxic to dogs. If your dog accidentally consumes meat with soy sauce, monitor them closely for any signs of vomiting, diarrhea, or other gastrointestinal issues. It's best to stick to plain, unseasoned meats that are cooked without any added sauces or seasoning. If you want to add flavor to your dog's food, you can use small amounts of dog-safe herbs or spices such as parsley, basil, or turmeric, or consider using dog-friendly broths or stocks as a flavoring agent.
What happens if dogs eat soybeans?
If dogs eat soybeans, it's generally not harmful and can even be beneficial in small amounts. Soybeans contain protein, fiber, and other nutrients that can be a healthy addition to a dog's diet. However, it's important to note that soybeans should not be the primary source of protein in a dog's diet, as dogs require a diet primarily based on animal-based protein sources. However, soy is a common allergen in dogs, and some dogs may have difficulty digesting soy products, leading to gastrointestinal upset such as flatulence or diarrhea. If your dog has not consumed soy before, it's essential to introduce it gradually and monitor for any adverse reactions. Symptoms of a soy allergy in dogs may include itching, redness or swelling of the skin, ear infections, or gastrointestinal upset. These symptoms may not appear immediately after consuming soy but may develop over time with repeated exposure.
What are the benefits of soy for dogs?
Soy can provide several nutritional benefits for dogs when included in their diet in moderate amounts. Here are some potential benefits of soy for dogs: Soy is a plant-based protein source that is high in quality and contains all the essential amino acids that dogs require for a healthy diet. It can be a good alternative protein source for dogs with allergies or intolerances to animal-based proteins. Soybeans are a good source of fiber, which can help promote digestive health in dogs and regulate their bowel movements. Soybeans contain several essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B6, vitamin C, folate, magnesium, and potassium, which can contribute to a dog's overall health and well-being. Soybeans contain a good balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are important for maintaining healthy skin and coats in dogs. Soybeans are a rich source of antioxidants, including isoflavones, which can help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and may have potential health benefits for dogs.
More on Dog Nutrition
Are Fruits and Vegetables Good for Dogs?
10 of the Best Rated Dog Foods
Dog Treat Recipes
This information is for informational purposes only and is not meant as a substitute for the professional advice of, or diagnosis or treatment by, your veterinarian. It has however been reviewed for accuracy by Dr. Joe, a board certified veterinary nutritionist and graduate of Cornell University's program for Veterinary Medicine.
