Dog Superfoods – sharing everyday goodness with your puppy
Ever wished you could treat your dog with the same superfoods you use to boost your immune system and improve overall health? These tiny seeds, grains and berries listed below pack a particularly mighty punch for their size. Small enough to be snuck into the bowls of picky eaters and easily found at any grocery store, they are the perfect addition to your dogs diet.
Whether you are looking to boost your dogs daily meal, or make a healthy treat, these dog superfoods can be just as beneficial for our canine companions as they are for us. When I meal prep chia pudding for my breakfast, Oddy gets a spoonful of the water, chia and coconut mix in his cold-pressed kibble. It costs me zero extra time, and he get’s that little extra health boost.
As always when introducing new foods to your dog, it’s important to do so gradually and in small amounts to make sure they don’t have any adverse reactions. Make sure to consult with your vet before making any major changes to your dog’s diet and keep your dogs body weight in mind when deciding on the quantity of dog superfoods to feed them.
Top 5 dog superfoods
Chia Seeds
Chia Seeds are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and fiber. These small seeds can help to improve the health of your dog’s skin and coat, as well as support a healthy immune system.
They are also a good source of calcium, phosphorus, and manganese, which are essential minerals for dogs.
Chia seeds can be easily added to your dog’s food by sprinkling them on top or mixing them into their meals. It’s important to note that chia seeds should be soaked before feeding to dogs, as they can absorb a lot of liquid and expand in the stomach, which can cause upset stomach if fed dry.
They can also be a choking hazard if not properly soaked, so make sure they are softened before feeding them to your dog.
Goji Berries
Goji berries are high in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. They are also a great source of protein and fiber. They can help to improve the immune system, increase energy levels, and improve overall health.
They are also known to improve vision and have anti-inflammatory properties. Use them for example in a dog friendly superfood salad. Goji berries are relatively high in sugars and should only be fed in small quantities. Due to their sugar content, they are not suitable for diabetic dogs.
Quinoa
Not only is quinoa a great source of protein for dogs, but it’s also a good source of fiber and minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, and manganese. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
It can easily replace rice in a lot of traditional dog food recipes or used as the base for dog cookies.
Blueberries
These little berries pack a big punch when it comes to antioxidants and vitamins. They’re great for promoting a healthy immune system and can even help improve cognitive function in older dogs.
Plus, they’re a low-calorie treat that most dogs love. Some dogs like to snack on fresh or frozen blueberries, some might only eat them hidden away in some yogurt.
Sprouts
Sprouts are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. They are also high in antioxidants, which can help boost the immune system. They are easy to digest, which makes them a great option for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Some examples of sprouts that are safe for dogs are alfalfa, clover, broccoli and wheatgrass sprouts. They are perfect for blending into a dog smoothie that can be frozen on a lick mat!
The information provided is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment.