Zack Keithy, our author, has been a certified veterinarian technician for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers. Learn more about us here.
Miso soup is a traditional Japanese soup made from fermented soybean paste called miso, which is then combined with dashi soup stock and ingredients like green onions, seaweed, and tofu.
It’s well known for its savory umami flavor and is a popular dish in Japanese cuisine, and I know I totally love it.
But what about our pets? Can dogs have miso soup too?
No, it is not recommended to feed miso soup to dogs. Although it offers several nutritional benefits, like boosting the immune system and aiding in digestion, the high salt content, along with possible added ingredients like onions or garlic, can be harmful to dogs and cause health issues like dehydration, diarrhea, or even sodium ion poisoning in severe cases.
In this post, you will learn more about the potential issues that may arise and find a few alternatives for your dog instead.
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What Is Miso Soup?
Before we dive into more details about dogs and miso soups, let’s take a closer look at what it’s made of.
Miso soup is basically a Japanese soup that is made from boiling dashi broth and then mixing in fermented soybean paste, also known as miso paste.
In most cases, other ingredients such as tofu, seaweed, and green onions are added to enhance the flavor of the dish itself.
The good thing is that miso paste is rich in amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, making the soup a healthy and nutritious choice for humans.
Doggy says, you might be keen to read this too: Can dogs eat mandarins?
Nutritional Benefits of Miso Soup
One of the major benefits of miso soup that makes it popular is its nutritional value. Here is a quick look at what it offers:
- Protein: Miso soup contains a considerable amount of protein, which is essential for maintaining muscle mass and promoting proper growth and development.
- Fiber: Miso soup contains dietary fiber that can aid digestion and regulate bowel movement, making it beneficial for constipation or diarrhea.
- Vitamins and minerals: Miso soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin K, which promotes healthy blood clotting, and potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure.
So, Can Dogs Drink Miso Soup?
Yes, dogs can drink miso soup, but only in very small amounts, and if there are no additional ingredients such as onions.
The trouble is, you have no idea exactly how the miso paste is made, and if you are buying one of those pre-packed ones, they tend to add in small little spices or condiments (including onion and garlic powder) which may be harmful to your dog.
Another thing is that the soy content in miso can make your dog’s stomach gassy and bloat. Not ideal!
Lastly, the sodium content in miso can also be quite high, which is not suitable for our dogs. Overconsumption can lead to a myriad of health problems such as dehydration, or worse, salt toxicosis.
Can Dogs Eat Miso Paste?
No, dogs should not consume miso paste directly due to its high sodium content.
As I mentioned earlier, miso paste is high in sodium, which can cause health problems when it’s consumed in large quantities.
Not to mention, miso paste is a type of fermented food, and a dog with a sensitive stomach may experience digestive issues if they consume it.
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Doggy says, you might be keen to read this too: Can dogs eat wild rice?
Are There Any Low-Sodium Miso Soup Options for Dogs?
If you are determined to give your dog miso soup, there are indeed low-sodium options available.
The thing is, even low-sodium miso soup can contain too much sodium for a dog’s diet, so it is still not recommended.
And again, it’s unclear if there are other ingredients like flavor enhancers in them which can cause harm to your dog, so just stay on the side of caution!
What Are Some Alternatives to Miso Soup For Dogs?
If you’re looking for a soup-like dish to feed your dog, there are many healthier alternatives.
Here are some of my top choices:
- Bone Broth: Bone broth is a nutritious soup for dogs. It’s packed with beneficial nutrients like collagen, glucosamine, and chondroitin that can help improve your dog’s joint health and digestion.
- Chicken broth: A homemade version with carrots and peas can be a nice treat for dogs. Just make sure not to make your chicken broth with onion, garlic, or seasoning with high sodium content.
- Pumpkin Soup: Pureed pumpkin is excellent for dogs’ digestion. You can make a simple pumpkin soup with just pumpkin and water.
- Beef Stew: A simple beef stew with dog-safe vegetables can be a hearty meal for your dog. Again, avoid onions and garlic, and be careful with the amount of salt you use. I honestly think going saltless will still be yummy for your dog.
- Fish Soup: If your dog isn’t allergic to fish, a simple fish soup can be a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. Just make sure to remove all bones.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can Miso Soup Cause Digestive Issues in Dogs?
Yes, miso soup can cause digestive issues in dogs if consumed in large quantities or if the dog has a sensitivity or allergy to any of its ingredients.
Can Miso Soup Be Used as a Dog Food Topper?
Miso soup can be used as a dog food topper in small amounts, as long as it doesn’t contain any ingredients that are toxic or harmful to dogs. It should be given in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.
Can Puppies Eat Miso Soup?
It is not recommended to feed puppies miso soup. Puppies have specific dietary requirements, and miso soup may not provide them with the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and development.
What are the Symptoms of Miso Soup Allergies in Dogs?
The symptoms of miso soup allergies in dogs can vary but may include digestive issues (vomiting, diarrhea), skin problems (itching, redness, swelling), respiratory symptoms (coughing, sneezing), or general discomfort. If you suspect an allergy, consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and treatment.
In Conclusion: Can Dogs Have Miso Soup?
I get it. We dog parents always want to share the best stuff with our dogs, especially food, but in this case, I highly recommend that you avoid doing so.
There are lots of better options out there, so why take the chance?
Before you go, do check out these other dog diet posts too:
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