Can Dogs Eat Tofu? Yes, Plain and in Moderation

What it gives your dog

Tofu is soy milk that has been curdled and pressed. Firm tofu provides about 120-145 kcal per 100 g, 12-17 g of protein, unsaturated fat and, depending on the coagulant used, quite a lot of calcium. Soy has been used for decades in dog food as a protein source, so it is not a strange ingredient for a dog and is usually well tolerated in small amounts.

It has three limits. First, it does not replace meat in an improvised homemade diet: a dog can live on a vegetarian diet, but only if it is formulated by a veterinary nutritionist with the right supplements. Second, soy is one of the known food allergens in dogs, although less common than beef, dairy or chicken, and it gives some dogs gas. Third, it is often prepared marinated, smoked, fried or with soy sauce, which is pure sodium. As for its phytoestrogens, there is no evidence that the small amounts in an extra affect a healthy dog.

How to serve it

Plain firm tofu, not marinated, not smoked and with no salt
In small cubes, raw or seared in a pan with no oil
As a treat or mixed into their food, never as their main protein
Start with a few cubes to see how they digest it
Never with soy sauce, fried or in stir-fries with garlic or onion

How much can they eat?

As an extra: small dog (under 10 kg / 22 lb), 15-20 g (3-4 cubes, about half an ounce); medium dog (10-25 kg / 22-55 lb), 30-40 g (1-1.5 oz); large dog (over 25 kg / 55 lb), 50-60 g (about 2 oz). A few times a week, within the 10 % of calories for extras.

Risks

Soy allergy or intolerance: itching, ear infections, vomiting or diarrhea
Gas and soft stools
Marinated or smoked tofu, or tofu with soy sauce: lots of salt
Stir-fries and Asian takeout: garlic, onion, scallions or chili
Homemade tofu-based diets not formulated by a professional: nutrient deficiencies

Frequently asked questions

Can a dog be vegetarian on tofu?

Not on an improvised diet. Dogs can eat meat-free diets, but only if a veterinary nutritionist formulates them and they include the necessary amino acid, vitamin and mineral supplements. A homemade diet of tofu, rice and vegetables falls short in several nutrients and, kept up for months, can cause serious problems. As an occasional extra, tofu is fine.

Is soy sauce bad for dogs?

Yes, do not give it to them. One tablespoon of soy sauce has about 1 g of sodium, a huge amount for a small dog. A lick from a plate is not an emergency, but drinking from a bottle can cause salt poisoning with vomiting, intense thirst, tremors and seizures. In that case, call the vet right away.

Can dogs eat edamame or textured soy protein?

Edamame, young soybeans cooked with no pod and no salt, is safe in small numbers, although it causes gas; the pod is fibrous and best avoided. Unseasoned textured soy protein can also be given in small amounts, well rehydrated and cooked. Neither should replace the meat in their diet.