Most dog owners consider the best kind of dietary supplements for dogs are those containing the nutritional properties of beef and chicken, specifically protein, iron and zinc. However, many owners remain unaware of the astonishing benefits that seaweed supplements provide for puppies, adult dogs and senior dogs simply because seaweed is not a food usually associated with a dog's diet and health. Seaweed supplements are entirely safe to give to dogs regularly as a way to maintain sufficient levels of vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall health as they grow, mature and age.
What is Seaweed?
Seaweed is a general term used to describe one of numerous groups of algae, primarily green, brown and red algae. Found in oceans and seas all over the world, seaweed has a leaf-like appearance and consists of long strands of thin leaves that float near or at the surface of a body of water. People living near coastal waters already know about the rich nutritional qualities of this plant and frequently include seaweed in their own daily diet. In addition to its benefits as a dietary supplement, seaweed is also thought to possess curative properties that may alleviate symptoms of numerous ailments, including arthritis.
What are the benefits of Seaweed Supplements for Dogs?
Dogs receive numerous minerals from seaweed supplements that are important for healthy growth such as:
Potassium
Zinc
Copper
Iron
Magnesium
Chromium
Selenium
Additional vitamins and nutrients found in seaweed include:
Vitamins B1, B2, B3 and B12
Vitamin A
Vitamin C
Vitamin E
Calcium
Fibre
As mentioned Seaweed is full of vitamins and minerals but care must be taken as some Seaweeds contain higher quantities of certain Vitamins and Minerals.
Seaweed has been used traditionally for pigmentation of the coat and indeed for keeping a dog’s nose the correct colour, although to our knowledge no scientific proof can also help strengthen the dogs’ claws. A good source of Iodine seaweed stimulates thyroid activity so as in many cases that exist currently can help with an underactive thyroid.
Another benefit is that Seaweed can help with the removal of the plaque on dogs teeth that build up.
Seaweed should not be given to a bitch in whelp If the dogs condition is causing alarm or you are worried it should be referred to a Veterinary Practice.
Giving dogs seaweed supplements is easy, just sprinkle the recommended amount over your dog's daily feed and watch your dog experience greater energy, a healthier coat, stronger resistance to illnesses and better weight management due to a well-functioning thyroid. Your dog will enjoy many years of a healthy, happy life when given supplements of fresh, natural seaweed every day.
Recommended Feeding Guide for Dogs:
Mix in with one meal per day.
Small dogs <10kg: not more than 1/2 a teaspoon.
Med. dogs 10-20kg: up to 1 teaspoon.
Large dogs >20kg: up to 2 teaspoons
Recommended Feeding Guide for Horses:
Ponies and smaller horses = 1 scoop per day.*
Larger horses = 2 scoops per day
1 scoop (15ml) = 12g.*