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It might sound intimidating at first, but dog superfoods are actually incredibly easy to find and they’re affordable! In fact, you probably have some of them at home!
There’s been a recent increase in people taking interest in feeding their dogs healthier food, some are even opting and have transitioned to raw feeding. The thing is, it’s not for everyone. Not all dog owners are comfortable feeding their dogs raw and it might be too expensive. A great alternative to that is adding a few of the dog superfoods to your pet’s diet!
(Note: Please, make sure you consult a vet for any major changes in the diet.)
If you’re interested in upping your dog’s diet, here are a few superfoods that you can incorporate in their diets and meals:
Blueberries
It might come as a shock to many, but yes! Blueberries are great for your dogs. You may give it to them as a part of their snack or just a piece on their own. They’re full of fiber and antioxidants. Despite their small size and serving, these berries are packed with nutrition. Blueberries also support urinary tract health (as do cranberries). They have anthocyanins which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties—they’ve been shown to help reduce the risk of some cancers, and protect brain cells and memory function.
Sardines
This is a good type of meat to add to your dog’s diet, just so they can have a diversified diet. Packed with omega-3 that you can rarely find in other food, this will surely give your pet the added nutrition. Sardines are rich in protein too, as well as coenzyme Q10 and taurine – an important amino acid. Not only are sardines good for your dog’s health, but it also helps the skin and coat become healthy and shiny. One piece of sardines a meal per day is good enough!
Pumpkin
It is rich in beta-carotene, which not only enhances immune health, but also boosts eye health, and supports your dog’s skin and coat. As a natural stomach soother, it also helps with your doggo’s digestion and helps remove excess water in their digestive tract. You can either buy a pumpkin and cook it yourself or buy canned ones (not the pumpkin puree for pies).
Turmeric
The most recommended form of this to use for dogs, is powdered. Due to the bitter taste, your dogs might not want to eat it. So, it can be sprinkled on top or mixed into the food you’ll be serving, a little goes a long way. The turmeric’s effect on humans is mostly the same for dogs. In order for dogs to be able to absorb the curcumin, you must prepare turmeric in a special way, combining it with a healthy oil like coconut oil or olive oil to create a paste (called golden paste). It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help out with infection, trauma, and toxins.
Moringa
Often overlooked, but is actually one of the best superfoods for your dog! It comes in many different forms: capsules, leaf powder, drops, and actual leaves. This herb is fully loaded with nutrients and proteins. It also contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Adding this to your dog’s diet will surely boost their immune system and keep their digestive health.
Carrots
One of the most common and well-known root vegetables that are added to dog’s diets! Its beta-carotene helps with your dog’s immune system, supports eye health, and helps in the overall improvement of your dog’s skin and coat. The fiber it contains helps with the digestive tract. A perfect low-calorie snack or addition to a hearty meal!
Chia Seeds
Packed with protein, fiber, antioxidants, calcium, iron, magnesium, B vitamins, and Omega-3 fatty acids these are perfect for your dog’s immune system. It also supports joint and intestinal health, regulates blood sugar, and improves overall health. All you have to do is soak them in water or dog milk and you’re good to go!
Bone Broth
One of the best nutritional toppers to your dog’s kibble or raw food! Not only does it help with gut health and digestion, but it also strengthens joints! The nutrients in minerals you can find in the bone broth are magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, collagen, and gelatin — all of which your dog needs. You can opt for buying the ready-made broths in supermarkets or you can make one at home! There are lots of recipes for it online, so you won’t have a hard time choosing which one to follow.
Parsley
Also known as a “super-herb” because of the nutrients it has. This one has Vitamin C, A, and K. It is high in dietary fiber which helps promote healthy digestion and can help support your dog’s immune system. A bonus benefit is that it helps freshen your dog’s breath, because of its natural deodorizing and antibacterial properties. It can be mixed in the meals or added to a pup-cicle you can make at home! An important thing to remember is that it’s best to add small amounts and add them to the diet a few times a week, a lot of it is not advisable.
Olive Oil
It contains monounsaturated fatty acids, Omega-3, and Omega-6 fatty acids, and antioxidants. It helps protect your dog against cancer, and it can also improve coat and skin conditions. It can be mixed in with the meals or snacks that you serve your pup, but be mindful that it contains about 120 calories per tablespoon and 14 grams of fat. Even though that’s a healthy fat, servings should be limited to one teaspoon per 20 pounds of body weight per day.
Always remember that slowly introducing these dog superfoods to the diet is the way to go. We don’t want to shock our pets, we want them to actually enjoy eating these extra boosts! Don’t expect these to immediately work, building up to it will yield results — which is a happier and longer life for your doggo!
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