Can my dog eat chia seeds? Yes. Chia seeds are native plants in Guatemala and Mexico. They contain vitamins and minerals that are beneficial to your dog’s health. However, there are few suggestions on healthy ways to feed your dog Chia seeds.
Can My Dog Eat Chia Seeds?
What Are Chia Seeds?
Can my dog eat chia seeds? Yes, but what are they anyway? Chia seeds are minuscule black seeds from the Salvia plant. This plant is related to the mint family and produces these tiny seeds packed full of vitamins, minerals, and more.
In the past, The Mayans and Aztecs considered them to be an essential food due to the fact it provides sustainable energy. The word “chia” actually means strength in the ancient Mayan language.
Benefits of Chia Seeds for Dogs
Chia seeds contain potassium, zinc, iron, magnesium, several vitamins, and phosphorus. They provide the following health benefits when part of a balanced and complete diet.
- Keeps your dog feeling full
- Supports weight loss
- Regulates blood sugar levels
- Improves eyesight
- Encourages shiny coats
- Strengthens cells
Dangers of Chia Seeds for Dogs
There are very few dangers to feeding your dog chia seeds. The following hazards need to be taken into consideration before deciding to give your dog chia seeds. Chia seeds contain fatty acids that can cause stomach upset if your dog eats too many. You can prevent this from happening by limiting the portion size.
Prevent choking by soaking the seeds overnight to make them softer and easier to eat and digest.
Fun Ways to Add Chia Seeds to Your Dog’s Diet
- Toss a few into your dog’s dry kibble.
- Place a few in your dog’s food bowl as a snack or treat.
- Soak the chia seeds overnight then put them in a blender and add to wet dog food.
- Add unsoaked or soaked seeds to wet dog food.
- Mix soaked or unsoaked chia seeds with peanut butter or banana for added texture and flavor.
Try making this tasty recipe for your dog:
Ingredients
- 2 cups of whole-grain flour
- 3 tbsp of ground chia seeds
- 3 tbsp of water
- 2 tbsp of olive oil
- 1 ½ cups of vegetable broth
Instructions
- Begin by preheating the oven to 300 degrees
- Combine chia seeds and water in a small mixing bowl and allow it to sit for about 30 seconds.
- Blend flour, water, and chia seeds together in a food processor or standing mixer. If you are using a stand mixer, keep it in the low setting.
- Pour the vegetable broth into the bowl slowly and allow it to continue mixing until it becomes a dough-like consistency.
- Coat a flat surface such as a cutting board or kitchen counter and roll out the dough.
- Cut the dough into squares or use cookie cutters to create fun shapes.
- Place parchment paper on baking sheets and place each cookie on the paper.
- Bake in the oven for 30 minutes.
- Allow the cookies to cool completely before giving them to your dog.
- Store leftover cooked cookies in a sealed plastic container or zip lock bag in the refrigerator. Serve the cookies to your dog as a healthy snack.
Bottom Line
Now that you know the answer to your question, “Can my dog eat chia seeds?” It’s time to find fun ways to add them to your dog’s diet. Try the suggestions listed above and have fun creating your own recipes.
While chia seeds are safe for dogs to eat, some might experience an allergic reaction. If your dog experiences symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, excessive itching, and chewing of their paws, contact a veterinarian immediately for treatment options.
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Shellie
A pet parent herself, Shellie knows the ins and outs of caring for a furry bundle of joy. She has been researching, reviewing and sharing her findings for the best dog products available for a number of years. A valued team member, Shellie's first-hand experience is invaluable.
