Can dogs eat couscous?

Yes: dogs can eat couscous in moderation, but only if they have no gluten intolerance. Couscous is made from durum wheat semolina and contains gluten. As an occasional side dish it is harmless, but as a regular main food it is worthless: dogs need protein, not carbohydrates.

What couscous can do for dogs

Couscous provides carbohydrates, a little protein and some fiber. As an easily digestible side dish, it suits dogs with digestive issues or works as a supplement to meat and vegetables. For dogs without gluten problems, couscous is harmless now and then.

What to watch out for

Couscous contains gluten, so it is not suitable for dogs with a gluten intolerance or a wheat allergy. Signs of a gluten intolerance include diarrhea, vomiting, itching and flaky skin.

Always prepare it without salt, spices or onions: these are harmful to dogs. Feed only couscous that has been cooked in water.

How to feed couscous

Cook the couscous in water, let it cool completely, and mix it as a small side dish into meat or vegetables. Keep the couscous portion small: dogs mainly need animal protein, not carbohydrates.

Nutritional values and amount

100 g of cooked couscous contains about 112 kcal, 3.8 g protein, 23 g carbohydrates and only 0.2 g fat. It contains hardly any meaningful micronutrients: couscous supplies energy, but barely any vitamins or minerals for dogs.

Guidelines by body weight:

• Small dog (up to 10 kg): 1 tablespoon as a side dish
• Medium dog (10 to 25 kg): 2 tablespoons as a side dish
• Large dog (over 25 kg): 3 tablespoons as a side dish

Do not use couscous as a meal replacement. Always combine it with a high-quality protein source (chicken, beef, fish). Keep cooked couscous in the fridge for two days at most.

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