The answer is yes, Dogs can eat plain arepas in moderation, but it’s important to avoid toppings or ingredients that could be harmful to them. Plain, unseasoned arepas made from cornmeal are generally considered as safe for dogs to consume as an occasional treat.
However, it’s essential to avoid ingredients like onions, garlic, or excessive salt, as these can be toxic to dogs. Additionally, always monitor your dog for any adverse reactions after consuming new foods.
What are the Health Benefits of Arepas for Dogs?
Here are some of the benefits of arepas for dogs:
Healthy Digestion: Arepas are made with whole cornmeal which contains a lot of fiber in it. Fiber is good for digestion and helps things move through smoothly.
Less Allergy Trouble: Arepas are usually free of gluten, which is good for dogs with sensitivities to wheat or gluten.
Quick Energy: The carbs in arepas can give a quick burst of energy. This can be a good source of nutrients for active dogs or those who like to play around a lot.
What are the Potential Health Risks of Arepas?
Here are some factors to consider:
Too Much Carbs: Arepas contain large amounts of crabs, and feeding too many arepas can lead them to overweight and other health problems.
Tummy Troubles: When dogs eat new foods like arepas, sometimes it doesn’t make their tummy feel good. This can lead to upset tummy or diarrhea, especially if your dog’s tummy is sensitive.
What Goes on Top: Arepas often have ingredients on top like cheese, meat, or spices, which can make dogs feel sick or even cause allergies.
Allergies: Even though arepas usually don’t have gluten, some parts could still cause problems for dogs who have allergies.
How to Serve Arepas To Your Dogs?
If you’re thinking about giving your dog arepas, here are some of the instructions for you:
1. Keep it Simple: Always serve in plain form, without adding any extra seasonings or ingredients that could be bad for your dog, like spices, salt, or toppings.
2. Just a Bit: Arepas should be just a small part of your dog’s diet. Give them a little piece that matches their size and what they usually eat.
3. Make at Home: If you’re making arepas yourself, use simple things like plain cornmeal, water, and a little bit of salt. Avoid adding seasonings that might not be good for dogs.
4 No Extras: Don’t put in anything like fillings, cheese, or meat. Just keeping it plain is better and safer.
5. Observe for Any Reaction: After your dog eats a small piece of plain arepas, watch out for any tummy problems or signs of allergies.
6. Not Too Much: Like with any treat, don’t give them too much. Arepas should be an every-now-and-then thing, not something they get all the time.
7. Good Ingredients: Make sure the arepas you give them don’t have anything bad in them. Check the label, especially if you buy them from a store.
