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Tailwise

Vegetable

Can dogs eat green beans?

Yes Safe

Plain green beans are crunchy, filling and very low in calories, which makes them a favourite treat for dogs on a diet.

By Maya HartReviewed by Tailwise Editors · October 1, 2026

How much, how often

A few beans a day; up to about 10% of daily calories as treats.

Treats of any kind should stay under 10% of the day’s calories. Work out your pet’s calories

Serving it safely

Raw, steamed or boiled — with no butter, salt, garlic or onion
Cut into short pieces for small dogs
Avoid tinned beans with added salt

Dogs and cats, side by side

Dogs Safe

Yes. Plain green beans are crunchy, filling and very low in calories, which makes them a favourite treat for dogs on a diet.

How much: A few beans a day; up to about 10% of daily calories as treats.

Cats Safe

Yes, plain cooked green beans are safe for cats in small amounts, though most cats are not interested.

How much: A small cooked piece.

Can cats eat green beans?

The details

You may come across the “green bean diet”, where part of a dog’s food is replaced with green beans to help with weight loss. Swapping more than a small portion can leave a diet short of protein and nutrients. For real weight loss, measure your dog’s food and use green beans as treats instead of biscuits — or ask your vet about a weight-loss food.

Questions owners ask

Can dogs eat green beans?

Yes. Plain green beans are crunchy, filling and very low in calories, which makes them a favourite treat for dogs on a diet.

How much green beans can a dog have?

A few beans a day; up to about 10% of daily calories as treats.

What should I do if my dog ate green beans?

A small amount usually causes nothing worse than a mild stomach upset. Offer water, skip the next treat and call your vet if vomiting or diarrhoea lasts more than a day or your pet seems unwell.

Is green beans safe for cats too?

Yes, plain cooked green beans are safe for cats in small amounts, though most cats are not interested.

Sources

Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts