Can I Feed My Dog Seaweed? Everything You Need to Know
Being a pet parent is not only about cuddling, hugging, and playing. It is a responsibility for caring for and keeping a living creature safe. You should know about what will benefit the health of your little furry canine.
And the fact is, dogs can have plenty of food unless they are supplied in a definite proportion and under certain precautions. The same goes for seaweed. Since it has a nutritious value, you still need to be careful about some things.
Seaweed comprises 60 different advantageous vitamins, minerals, and some traces of amino acids. How can you blame them if your dog wants to eat them? After all, it is beneficial for them.
Based on the research, we will tell you the dos and don'ts of seaweeds, what kind of seaweed should be fed, and its proportion as well.
Let's get started.
Benefits of Feeding Seaweed to Dog
Due to its nutritional characteristics, seaweed is considered an extremely healthy food for dogs if given in moderate quantities. According to recent research, these green vegetables are beneficial to keep your dog's skin fresh and hydrated.
Some of the significant benefits of seaweed are as follows:
1. Digestion
Among all the other benefits, seaweed supports healthy digestion in dogs due to the presence of fiber in it. Since fiber contains anti-tumor and anti-rheumatic qualities, it supplies probiotics to your little friend's body to sustain good digestion.
2. Alternative Food
Some dogs might be allergic to certain nutritious foods that may lead to malnutrition in your pet. To that end, feeding your little puppy seaweed can be an excellent alternative to deposit nutrients in the body. Furthermore, seaweed will help to reduce skin redness and dryness due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
3. Antioxidant
Seaweed is an incredible source to maintain heart health and boost the immune system of your dog. On decomposition, seaweed transfers numerous antioxidants in the pet's body that help reduce the risk of infections and increase the longevity of your puppy.
Drawbacks of Seaweed for Dogs
Introducing your dogs to seaweed is a healthy thought but can be dangerous if you take your dog to the beach, as wild seaweed may cause damage to your dog's health. While walking with them on the beach, keep them tied with a harness to prevent them from eating wild seaweed.
Or it can also be a brilliant idea to take your dog in a wheelchair. It will protect them from eating the seaweed on the floor and bring joy to them while enjoying their visit to the beach.
1. Hyperthyroidism
While seaweed in moderate amounts will boost healthy thyroid function, the excess of seaweed intake may cause hyperthyroidism in your pet resulting in an unusual decrease in weight and other diverse effects on health.
2. Diarrhea
The overdose of seaweed on dogs can cause diarrhea and vomiting. To that end, your pet's health may deteriorate, and he'll not be active as before. Always look at the quantity of seaweed you are giving to them.
3. Wild and Dried Seaweed
Stop your dog from eating wild and dried seaweed. It can cause salt poisoning in them. This is very likely to expose your pup to other beach pollutants as well.
Other than that, different water creatures such as jellyfish might be mixed with the seaweed, which can cause an emergency with your dog. Be careful with that too.
Additionally, when the seaweed is exposed to sunlight on the seashore, it reduces to the size of its fraction. This might confuse your dog, considering it as a treat.
But no.
Do not let your friend eat them as they will expand in the stomach causing discomfort and gastrointestinal infections in your furry pet.
How to Introduce Seaweed to Your Dog's Food?
Every dog owner should give some proportions of seaweed that will positively impact the dog's health. To that end, you can purchase a PetKit Double Bowl and pour two meals at a time. Your little companion won't get bored of the same taste. It is also a clever idea to give them in small amounts or give them as a treat occasionally.
Take a piece of advice before introducing seaweed to your dog for the first time. Generally, when giving something new to your pet, it is important to feed them in a small quantity. Keep an eye on your little companion in case of any allergic reactions or other adverse effects.
In addition, you can also pour a little seaweed powder on the regular dog's food to make them familiar with the taste. Eventually, your dog will start liking its taste once the taste buds are developed.
Also, check the dog's stool, behavioral changes, energy levels, and overall reactions. Don't hesitate to contact the veterinarian to get the answer to your problems. Take your pet to the hospital in case of a severe reaction.
Which Type of Seaweed is Safe for Your Dog?
Among all kinds of seaweed types, Nori and Kelp are considered to be the safest. But make sure to give your puppy the store-bought, unseasoned, and do not contain spices that may harm your dog.
Nori & Kelp Benefits
Kelp is a type of seaweed that helps maintain a healthy digestive system and maintain your pet's dental hygiene. Some research indicates that Kelp acts as a repelling agent against certain fleas. Now your pet can comfortably relax on his multifunctional bed without any insects bothering them.
Final Verdict
For your little furry friend's healthy growth and development, you should consider all the essential points. Keep an eye on your pup while taking them out on the seashore.
Alternatively, there are many dog-carrying tips you can go for. No matter which one you choose, it should add up to the safety and health of your little partner.
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