Chia Seeds: Tiny Superfood, Big Benefits for Dogs!
If you haven’t yet discovered chia seeds, it’s time to introduce this tiny but mighty superfood to your dog’s diet! Chia seeds are not just a trendy snack – they’re packed with nutrients that can support your pup’s overall health in some pretty amazing ways.
Here are seven good reasons why chia seeds are a must-add to your dog’s food bowl:
Heart health
Chia seeds are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for a healthy heart. These heart-healthy fats help keep your dog’s cardiovascular system strong and functioning at its best. Regularly adding chia to their diet can make a big difference in their overall well-being over time.
Brain Boost
Keeping your dog’s brain sharp can help shield your dog from doggy dementia – canine cognitive dysfunction syndrome – in their later years. Working dogs especially need to be alert to do their work, whether its herding sheep, sniffing out contraband and explosives, or guiding a visually impaired person through traffic. Dogs are smart by nature, and they’ll stay smart for longer with brain-boosting foods in their diet chia seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids to bolster your dog’s cognitive health effectively and keep them mentally sharp and on high alert.
Shiny coat and healthy skin
Omega-3s aren’t just for the heart and brain; they’re also fantastic for your dog’s skin and coat. The healthy plant-based fats in chia seeds help nourish the skin and promote a shiny, soft coat and are a great way to help your dog shine inside and out.
Protein punch
Your dog needs protein to maintain strong muscles and provide energy throughout the day. Chia seeds provide a plant-based protein boost to help fuel your dog’s muscles so they can stay active and live their best life.
Anti-inflammatory benefits
If your dog suffers from joint discomfort or inflammation, chia seeds can help. The anti-inflammatory properties of these tiny but powerful seeds help soothe irritated joints and reduce inflammation, making them a great addition to your dog’s diet, especially for older pups or those with active lifestyles.
Antioxidant-rich immunity
Chia seeds are full of antioxidants, which help fight free radicals and support your dog’s immune system. With chia seeds in your dog’s food bowl, you can help keep your fur friend healthy, vibrant, and thriving for years to come.
Fibre-rich tummy remedy
Fibre is essential for digestive health, and chia seeds are an excellent source. They can help promote regular bowel movements and support a healthy digestive system, keeping your dog’s tummy happy and balanced.
How to add chia seeds to your dog’s diet
It’s simple! To incorporate chia seeds into your dog’s diet, add 2 tablespoons of chia seeds to ½ cup of water and stir well to combine. Let it stand for 10 minutes or until the chia seeds have formed a gel, then mix again to break up any lumps. Spoon into a sealed container and store in the fridge. For small dogs, add 1 teaspoon of the chia gel mixture over their food once a day, and up to 2 tablespoons per day for large dogs. Store leftover chia gel in the fridge for up to 5 days.
So, what are you waiting for? Add a topping of this superfood to your dog’s next meal and wait for the magic to happen! A regular dose of chia seeds and soon your dog will be wagging their tail and you’ll be able to see the visible health benefits chia seeds provide.
