Written by: Dr. Randy Johnson, Pet Nutrition Expert
Last reviewed March 2025
There has been a great deal of discussion—and unfortunately, some misinformation—surrounding pea protein and its role in pet nutrition. As a companion animal nutritionist, I believe it's important that pet parents have access to accurate, science-based information when making decisions about their dog's diet.
With that in mind, I would like to revisit and update a topic I have written about previously: the nutritional value and safety of peas and pea protein in pet food.
Why Peas Matter in Pet Nutrition
Peas are much more than a simple vegetable. They are a highly nutritious ingredient that provides quality plant-based protein, dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, and important phytonutrients. In fact, many nutrition scientists consider peas a functional food—a food that provides health benefits beyond basic nutrition.¹
Pea protein contains an excellent profile of essential amino acids and serves as a valuable protein source in pet food formulations. In addition, peas are naturally low in calories and have a low glycemic index, meaning they help maintain stable blood sugar levels while supporting healthy weight management.
Research has also shown that peas may contribute to cardiovascular health by helping reduce LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels.²
Are Peas a Complete Protein?
One common misconception is that pea protein is nutritionally inadequate. While pea protein provides many essential amino acids, it is naturally lower in methionine, tryptophan, and valine.³
However, this is not a concern in properly formulated pet foods. Responsible nutritionists combine complementary protein sources—including animal proteins such as meat and eggs—to create a complete and balanced amino acid profile that meets all canine nutritional requirements.
No single ingredient is expected to provide every nutrient. What matters is the nutritional balance of the entire diet.
The Truth About Phytoestrogens
Another concern occasionally raised about peas is that they contain excessive amounts of phytoestrogens—naturally occurring plant compounds that can exhibit weak estrogen-like activity.
The science tells a different story.
Compared with other plant proteins, particularly soybeans and certain legumes, peas contain relatively low levels of phytoestrogens.⁴ There is currently no evidence that the levels found in pea protein used in pet foods pose a health concern for dogs.
Peas, Taurine, and Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM)
Perhaps the most widely discussed topic involving peas has been the question of whether legume-rich diets contribute to canine dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a serious heart condition.
Researchers have carefully examined this issue. One notable study conducted at the University of Illinois compared dogs fed diets containing up to 45% legumes with dogs fed diets based primarily on poultry by-product meal. Over the 90-day study period, researchers found no significant differences in plasma amino acid concentrations or taurine levels between the groups.⁵
The review concluded:
"Since there was no change in taurine concentrations with dogs being fed a diet containing 45% legumes, legumes are more than likely not a cause of taurine-deficient DCM."⁵
While research into diet-associated DCM continues, current evidence does not support the conclusion that peas or pea protein alone cause taurine deficiency or DCM in healthy dogs.
One Important Consideration
There is one situation where pea consumption may warrant additional attention.
Peas naturally contain purines, compounds that are metabolized into uric acid. While peas are considered only a moderate source of purines, dogs with certain kidney disorders or conditions involving uric acid metabolism may benefit from individualized dietary recommendations from their veterinarian.
For most healthy dogs, however, peas remain a safe and nutritious ingredient.
Why We Use Peas at D.O.G.
At D.O.G., we formulate our recipes using a balanced nutritional philosophy.
Our foods contain:
- 70% real meat proteins
- 20% legumes
- 10% fruits and vegetables
The inclusion of dried peas and pea protein helps provide high-quality nutrition, beneficial fiber, sustainable protein, and important micronutrients while complementing the amino acid profile supplied by our premium animal proteins.
As a companion animal nutritionist, my goal has always been to formulate foods that deliver ingredient transparency, balanced nutrition, and long-term health benefits for your dog.
Peas Are Good for the Planet, Too
Beyond their nutritional benefits, peas are one of the most environmentally sustainable protein crops available.
Pea plants naturally capture nitrogen from the atmosphere and return it to the soil, reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers while improving soil quality for future crop rotations.⁶ Their relatively low environmental footprint makes them an excellent choice for sustainable agriculture and responsible pet food production.
The Bottom Line
When viewed through the lens of science rather than internet speculation, peas are a nutritious, functional, and environmentally responsible ingredient.
They provide valuable protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, support balanced nutrition, and can play an important role in properly formulated pet foods. Like any ingredient, peas should be evaluated based on scientific evidence—not myths or misinformation.
As always, if you have questions about your dog's nutrition, I encourage you to visit the Ask Dr. Johnson portal at doonlygoodpet.com. I look forward to helping you make informed decisions that support your pet's health and longevity.
References
- Nadathur SR, Wanasundara JPD, Scanlin L. Pea: A Sustainable Vegetable Protein Crop. In: Sustainable Protein Sources. Academic Press; 2017:145-164.
- Lu ZX, He JF, Zhang YC, Bing DJ. Composition, physicochemical properties of pea protein and its application in functional foods. Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition. 2020;60(15):2593-2605.
- Reilly LM, von Schaumburg PC, Hoke JM, et al. Macronutrient composition, metabolizable energy, and amino acid digestibility of pulse ingredients for canine and feline diets. Journal of Animal Science. 2020;98(6).
- Bright Around the Corner. What is Pea Protein and Estrogen/Oestrogen/Phytoestrogen? January 19, 2020.
- McCauley SR, Clark SD, Quest BW, Streeter RM, Oxford EM. Review of canine dilated cardiomyopathy in the wake of diet-associated concerns. Journal of Animal Science. 2020;98(6).
- Roquette. The Pea for Sustainable Feed. Accessed October 9, 2020.