Chia seeds are good for dogs in small amounts. Chia seeds offer an excellent source of B vitamins and they’re rich in omega fatty acids, antioxidants, fiber, and minerals like calcium, magnesium and phosphorus.
Dogs need Omega 3 Fatty acids to balance out omega-6 fatty acids (which are high in most dog’s diets). Omega-3 fatty acids are important for many of the body’s functions, including …
- Immune system
- Skin and coat
- Joints
- Brain development and maintenance
- Eye development and maintenance
- Growth
Chia seeds are a big source of fiber, with 1 oz of chia containing 10 grams of dietary fiber. Most of the fiber in chia seeds is soluble fiber, a digestible fiber. Soluble fiber absorbs water, making it gel-like. Soluble fiber is fermented in the colon by the good bacteria, forming short chain fatty acids that are important to control pathogenic bacteria.
Soluble fiber from chia seeds expands in your dog’s stomach to help him feel full. So chia can help satisfy your dog’s appetite and may help prevent obesity. It may. also help prevent diabetes as it slows the conversion of carbohydrates into sugars to help stabilize blood sugar levels. So chia supports normal insulin function and sensitivity, blood sugar regulation and glucose tolerance.
Chia seeds are a good source of antioxidants for dogs. Your dog needs antioxidants to help manage free radicals and prevent oxidative stress.. Free radicals are a product of normal metabolism, but if they grow out of control they can harm your dog’s cells and even DNA. This is called oxidative stress, which contributes to disease and early aging. Antioxidants help slow oxidative stress and keep your dog healthy.
Chia contains more calcium than whole milk, more iron than raw spinach and more magnesium than broccoli. It’s a good source of phosphorus, potassium, copper, iron and zinc.
One Argentinian study found that long term feeding of chia seeds to rats improved bone density as well as liver and gut health.
First, because chia soaks up so much water, always make sure your dog has plenty of fresh water available.
You only need to give a small amount. Give 1/4 teaspoon daily for every 10 pounds of your dog’s body weight. You can sprinkle the seeds on food, or you can soak them in water to make a pudding and give it as a snack or food topping. Look for milled, organic chia seeds whenever possible.