We humans love to add nutrient-rich seeds to our diets. I personally add seeds to almost everything. Whether it’s chia pudding, oatmeal with flaxseed or hemp seed-batter pancakes, these little pieces pack a big punch. But what about our pets? Can I, for example, add some pumpkin seeds to my dog Oakley’s food bowl? I read that they can help with constipation—sorry to air your dirty laundry, Oak—so I thought I’d sprinkle some on his food. But he has a sensitive stomach, I’m not sure if the seeds would be safe or if dogs would reap as many of the health benefits of the seeds that we do. Can dogs eat seeds? So many questions (and seeds!), so little time. So, I went to the experts, veterinarians, to find out which seeds I could add to Oakley’s diet and which should be avoided at all costs.
Meet the Experts
Dr. Gary Richter, MS, DVM, is the founder of Ultimate Pet Nutrition and author of several best-selling books including Longevity for Dogs, Longevity for Cats, and The Ultimate Pet Health Guide. Dr. Richter was named America’s Favorite Veterinarian by the American Veterinary Medical Foundation.
Dr. Amy Attas, an award-winning veterinarian and author of Pets and the City: True Tales of a Manhattan House Call Veterinarian. He is the founder of City Pets, a veterinary medical house call practice for dogs and cats who live, work or visit Manhattan.
Can dogs eat seeds?
Some seeds can be added to a dog’s balanced diet in moderation. (Just as dogs can eat some nuts, but not all nuts—stay away from macadamias, warns Dr. Richter). In fact, according to Dr. Attas, healthy bones are nutrient dense but relatively low in calories, making them great diet supplements that can make a dog feel full while offering nutritional benefits when on a weight loss diet. Said seed nutrients, shared by Dr. Richter, includes healthy fats, vitamins and minerals, such as magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, B vitamins, and E vitamins. And of course, different seeds offer different benefits and/or risks: “Fiber-rich seeds (pumpkin) will aid digestion and help promote regular bowel movements in dogs with constipation,” explains Dr. Attas. He continued: “High omega-3 fatty acid seeds (flaxseeds) have anti-inflammatory properties and can improve a dog’s skin and coat.” But before adding any seeds to your dog’s diet, make sure you are prepared and introduce them correctly.
What seeds can dogs eat?
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1. Pumpkin Seeds
As mentioned by Dr. Attas, pumpkin seeds are rich in fiber and can help promote digestion and regular bowel movements. But the bones need to be prepared right for your dog—no seasoning or oil and removed from the shell. And keep servings small—like, a few seeds—because pumpkin seeds are high in fat. (Psst: You may have read that pumpkin seeds are natural dewormers, but there is no evidence to support this.)
2. Flaxseed
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High in omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseeds, as mentioned above, have anti-inflammatory properties and can improve a dog’s skin and coat. They are also helpful for joint pain and stiffness. That said, keep portions very small (under a teaspoon) and occasionally because flax contains trace amounts of cyanide.
3. Sunflower Seeds
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Sometimes and in small servings (getting a theme here?), plain, shelled sunflower seeds can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet. Do it no give your dog empty snacks full of salt that you eat at the baseball game because they can be dangerous to your puppy’s gastrointestinal system. Also, according to the American Kennel Club, if your dog is prone to pancreatitis or your pet has a sensitive stomach, it’s best to avoid sunflower seeds, as the high fat content can cause vomiting, nausea, loss of appetite, and other digestive. disturbing.
4. Sesame Seeds
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Their calcium and magnesium content promotes healthy bones and teeth. Fiber eases constipation; and zinc contributes to a shiny coat. Sesame seeds are rich in nutrients, but should, like the other seeds on this list, be given in small amounts and only occasionally.
5. Hemp Seeds
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Technically, hemp seeds (also known as hemp hearts) are packed with omega-6 fatty acids, protein and minerals, which offer a ton of benefits for dogs, such as -prevention of cancer and reduction of joint pain. In fact, hemp seed is a “complete protein” source, meaning all the amino acids are present. And don’t worry—the amount of psychoactive THC compound is too small to affect your dog.
6. Chia Seeds
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Rich in soluble fiber, chia seeds can suppress appetite and regulate blood sugar levels. They are also an excellent source of plant-based protein. But don’t serve them straight–make sure they soak thoroughly (overnight) so they don’t swell inside your dog as they absorb ten times their weight in liquid. Preventive Vet writes that dogs can handle a quarter teaspoon of chia gel (soaked seeds) per 10 pounds daily.
What Seeds Can’t Dogs Eat?
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1. Any Fruit Seed
“There are certain seeds that should not be fed to dogs,” says Dr. Attas. These include fruit seeds such as apple seeds, which contain cyanide and can be toxic if eaten in large quantities. He explained: “Other fruits contain their seeds inside the pit. Examples of fruits that contain toxic seeds inside their pits are cherries, peaches and apricots which all contain cyanide. The pits themselves are quite dangerous and often cause gastrointestinal foreign bodies to become impassable and have to be surgically removed. Avocado seeds and pits contain percin which is toxic to dogs.
2. Anything Salted or In the Shell
Your salty, delicious bag o’ sunflower seeds? Not for Fido. The salt content is dangerously high and the shells are choking hazards.
3. Any Seed Is Too Much
Seeds certainly have their nutritional benefits, but overserving each type can lead to their own issues like bloating or sickness.
What to Consider Before Feeding Seeds to Your Dog
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Your Dog’s Diet: If you are asking “what seeds can dogs eat?” I hope you are already feeding your puppy a balanced diet. I’m not sure? Talk to your vet about introducing new food elements before adding toppers like seeds or nuts.
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Choking Hazards: New shapes and textures of food can be dangerous for any dog, but if your dog has a history of choking, consider grounding bones.
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How to Introduce Seeds: “It is possible for a dog to be allergic to a particular type of bone, so observe any gastrointestinal problems, itching or swelling and facial redness. If well tolerated, bones should always be given in moderation,” order of Dr. Attas.
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Your Dog’s Poop: “If you see bones in the dog’s stool, it is likely that they have been digested properly and should be ground for better digestion and absorption of nutrients,” said Dr. Attas.
The Best Food for Dogs with Sensitive Stomachs
