The Truth About Chia Seeds for Dogs: What You Need to Know

It can be hard to figure out what is safe for your dog to eat and what isn’t. There’s little doubt about chia seeds though: there are many health benefits of chia seeds in general, which can also benefit a dog’s health. There is, however, one main precaution you need to be aware of when adding chia seeds to your dog’s diet.

We’ll pay homage to this tiny seed which is packed so full of nutrients, and take a look at how much you can safely give your dog. There are even some tasty chia dog treat recipes and feeding ideas for how to give your pup chia.

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Table of Contents

GENERAL HEALTH BENEFITS OF CHIA SEEDS

These tiny white or black seeds come from the Salvia Hispanica plant,in the mint family. Despite their size, they pack a high nutritional punch with several benefits for our health – and our dogs’ health.

packed with antioxidants
high in fibre
packed with nutrients, including manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, zinc and potassium, as well as several vitamins
low in calories
an excellent source of protein, with several essential amino acids
packed with Omega-3 fatty acids

In fact, chia is so nutritious it has more calcium than dairy products, more potassium than banana and more antioxidants than blueberries!

BENEFITS OF CHIA SEEDS FOR DOGS

OK, so chia seeds are super healthy for us humans. But you’re here to find out if it’s worth giving them to your dog. Here goes:

the fiber can help with constipation
their Omega-3 fatty acid content has many health benefits, including assisting in joint problems such as inflammation, promoting good heart health, immune system health and brain function, and helping to give your dog a shiny coat
the high fiber content can promote a healthy weight for your pup
their nutritional profile makes them a good food source for maintaining healthy bones
some animal studies have shown that chia seeds in the diet help to lower blood sugar levels, making them a useful supplement for diabetes sufferers. If your dog has diabetes, discuss feeding her some chia with a holistic vet or canine nutritionist
since it has no taste or smell, even picky dogs will eat it in their dinner
they are very easy to add in to your dog’s diet

Bear in mind though that as healthy as chia seeds are, you would never feed them as a high percentage of your dog’s food.

HAZARDS OF CHIA SEEDS FOR DOGS

In general chia seeds contain so many great things for our dogs, but any new food can be hard on dogs’ stomachs if they’re not used to it, so don’t give too much all at once!

BLOCKAGES

Dry chia seeds are very absorbent, easily soaking up water or fat. If you feed a lot of them to your dog in their dry state, without any liquid, the seeds will absorb liquid in your dog’s digestive system. A large amount of seeds could potentially cause a blockage.

Avoid this potential risk by soaking the chia seeds first in water, yogurt or kefir, or, mix them in with some wet food when feeding them to your dog.

ALLERGIES

There is a risk of allergies with any food type. Your dog is no more likely to be allergic to chia than he is to any other type of food though.

OMEGA- 3 EXCESS

Since they’re rich in Omega-3 but not Omega-6, too many of them might result in an imbalance of Omega-3. You can counteract this by combining them with a food stuff that has more Omega-6, such as poultry.

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF EATING CHIA SEEDS?

Dogs that struggle to digest chia seeds will show side effects that may include stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhea or constipation.

An allergic reaction might result in a rash as well.

HOW MUCH CHIA CAN MY DOG EAT?

As with any new food, it’s best to start off slow to make sure your pup has no adverse reactions.

Try sprinkling seeds over wet dog food (or adding it to water if you feed dry food) at a rate of one teaspoon to 40 pounds of your dog’s weight. So, if your dog weighs:

10 pounds = 1/4 teaspoon chia seeds
20 pounds = 1/2 teaspoon chia seeds
30 pounds = 3/4 teaspoon chia seeds
40 pounds = 1 teaspoon chia seeds

You can divide this up during the day into more than one meal or snack.

HOW TO GIVE YOUR DOG CHIA

You can add chia seeds to your dog’s food simply by sprinkling them into your dog’s dinner.

Chia can also be added to a dog’s water bowl: soaking them in this way avoids any potential blockage risks.

CAN DOGS EAT CHIA SEEDS DRY?

Yes they can. If you sprinkle a few seeds on top of their wet food for instance. Too many dry chia seeds could represent a blockage hazard though.

SUPERFOOD SNACK RECIPES YOUR DOG WILL LOVE

Chia seeds can be used as an egg substitute, a ‘crumb’ covering for meat or fish, used whole and raw, or milled, so they’re great for lots of dog treat ideas.

They can be used in place of some types of flour when cooking homemade treats. Pop the seeds in a grinder first to mill them.

FROZEN CHIA SEED PUDDING WITH FRUIT

These super healthy treats are great to have prepared in your freezer. They are quick and easy to make too.

You will need:

2 tablespoons Chia seeds – whole or milled
1 cup of Greek yogurt / kefir / water (use what your dog likes!)
handful of pureed fruit – I like to use berries such as blueberries, strawberries or raspberries – or organic, unsweetened baby food fruit puree (pure fruit only)
dog treat molds (I use silicone ice cube molds)

INSTRUCTIONS

TURKEY AND CHIA SEED DOG TREATS

CONCLUSION

Chia seeds are a great addition to any dog’s diet. They provide your pup with a powerhouse of nutrients and health benefits. There is really only one disadvantage worth mentioning – dry chia absorbs a lot of liquid, which could lead to intestinal blockages if you give your dog too much dry chia, or if you don’t soak it first. As with any new food, make sure you don’t overdo it! But aside from that minor detail these little seeds are great for dogs!

References

Healthline – Chia seeds

— Update: 09-02-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article Can Dogs Eat Chia Seeds? What You Need To Know from the website spoiledhounds.com for the keyword can dogs eat chia seed.

We know they have important nutrients for humans, but can dogs eat chia seeds? Keep reading to find out more and get answers to commonly asked questions.

These tiny seeds are actually really good for your furry friend. Learn how chia seeds help with weight management and anything to watch out for when you give your dog chia seeds.

For ultimate pet safety, please ask your vet any questions you have regarding your dog eating chia seeds.

Chia Seeds And Dogs

Coming from the salvia hispanica plant, chia seeds are native to Central America. They are an excellent source of protein and a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids for us humans. Do these nutrients benefit dogs too?

Yes, a small amount of chia seeds sprinkled in dog food (or wet food) can be a wonderful way to boost your dog’s nutrition. Keep reading to learn more about chia seeds and dogs and how to share them with your pet safely.

Are Chia Seeds Safe For Dogs

As a pet parent, you care deeply about what your dog eats. Yes, it is safe to safe to share these little seeds with your dog. In fact, chia seeds are an excellent way to give your dog a few more nutrients and plant-based protein.

It’s always best to give your dog organic seeds to minimize your dog’s exposure to chemicals and pesticide residue.

A Chia Seeds Poisonous To Dogs

No, chia seeds are not poisonous or toxic to dogs. On the contrary, they are good for older dogs, diabetic dogs, and dogs with health issues.

The only precautions you should take when you give your dog chia seeds is to provide them plenty of fresh water and only give them a small amount at a time.

There are 10 grams of fiber in one ounce of chia seeds, so be careful with how much they eat at one time.

Are Chia Seeds Bad For Dogs

Whether you have small dogs or larger dogs, chia seeds are only bad if your dog eats too much. Since these have so much fiber in them, too many chia seeds could give your dog an upset stomach.

Is Chia Seeds Good For Dogs

There are a lot of reasons that chia seeds are good for your canine friends. They have many amino acids, omega-6 fatty acids, b vitamins, and more!

Health Benefits Of Chia Seeds For Dogs

Just check out all the different health benefits of chia seeds for dogs.

It’s a wonderful source of dietary fiber. This is good for weight loss and your dog’s digestive system. It’s also good for maintaining blood sugar levels. Blood sugar regulation can prevent diabetes in dogs and could even improve their glucose tolerance.

The omega-3 fatty acids in chia seeds improve brain function and contribute to giving them a healthy coat.

Chia seeds also contain antioxidants that fight damage-causing free radicals and prevent oxidative stress.

Chia seeds’ calcium and phosphorus improve bone development and prevent hip dysplasia.

Are Chia Seeds OK For Dogs

Yes, it is totally OK to give your dog chia seeds. In fact, these seeds are good for canine cardiac health and boost your dog’s immune system.

Can Dogs Be Allergic To Chia Seeds

It’s not common for dogs to be allergic to chia seeds. It’s still a good idea to only give your dog a small bit and watch out for signs of an allergic reaction any time you introduce them to a new food.

Allergic reaction symptoms include sneezing, itching, coughing, or difficulty breathing. If your dog exhibits these symptoms, contact your dog’s veterinarian.

Can Puppies Eat Chia Seeds

Puppies should not eat chia seeds. Their stomachs and digestive system are still developing and they are very sensitive. You should only give them puppy food until they are old enough to handle other types of food.

Can Dogs Have Chia and Flax Seeds

The good news is that dogs can have both chia and flax seeds. It’s best to only give them a little bit of them, especially if you are going to give them both kids at once.

Chia Seeds For Dogs Dosage

How much chia seeds should you give your dog? Pay close attention to the pounds of your dog when giving them chia seeds.

It’s best to only give them 1/4 a teaspoon for every 10 pounds of body weight of your dog.

How To Prepare Chia Seeds For Dogs

You can sprinkle chia seeds in with your dog’s dry food. Or add chia seeds with some pumpkin seeds into some homemade dog treats.

Can Dogs Eat Chia Seeds Everyday

Yes, chia seeds make great additions to your dog’s

Remember, dogs are carnivores, so they need to eat mostly meat proteins. Chia seeds should be extra, like a multivitamin.

Chia Seed Jelly For Dogs

If your dog has a sweet tooth, add some chia seed jelly onto their healthy treats. It’s best to make the jelly at home so that you can control how much sugar it has. This jelly recipe from The Canine Chef Cookbook is made with dog-friendly ingredients.

Can Dogs With Kidney Disease Eat Chia Seeds

Chia seeds are known as a superfood and can be used to support your dog’s overall health if they have kidney disease. Before you use food as medicine, you should talk to your dog’s veterinarian.

Dogs and Chia Seeds – Types and Parts

Did you know these are the same seeds used to grow those household chia pets? Yup! The following types of seeds and parts of the plant are safe for dogs to eat.

Black Chia Seeds
Red Chia Seeds
White Chia Seeds

Plant Parts

Chia Plants
Chia Grass
Chia Leaves
Chia Sprouts

Foods With Chia Seeds

Before you give your dog human foods that are made with chia seeds, make sure they don’t have too much salt and aren’t made with garlic or onion.

Chia Crackers
Chia Pudding

Final Thoughts

The quick answer is that chia seeds contain essential nutrients that are important for your dog. Sprinkle some seeds into your dog’s food or add them to a homemade dog treat.

More Dog Food Resources

Here are some more resources about different seeds, nuts, herbs, and spices dogs can and can’t eat:

Can Dogs Eat Sunflower Seeds
Can Dogs Eat Poppy Seeds
Herbs Good for Dogs
Nuts Dogs Can Eat
Spices Good for Dog

Be sure to read my article about beans for dogs and find lots more articles on food dogs can eat here on Spoiled Hounds!

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— Update: 09-02-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article Can Dogs Eat Chia Seeds? A Superfood to Add to Your Dog’s Diet from the website blog.myollie.com for the keyword can dogs eat chia seed.

Chia seeds are on the menu at A-list restaurants and in seemingly every product at the health food store, but are chia seeds good for dogs? It’s a normal question for any health-conscious pet parent to wonder. We know that these little seeds are great for our health, and we only want the best for our beloved pups!

Can dogs eat chia seeds?

Yes! Dogs can and should eat chia seeds. There is very little risk associated with eating chia seeds for dogs, but there are many health benefits. The only precautions that a pet parent should take are to introduce chia seeds slowly (like you would for any new food) and to monitor the amount your dog eats as the seeds are high in fiber and calories.

What Are Chia Seeds for Dogs Exactly?

Chia seeds for dogs are the same seeds that humans enjoy. These tiny black seeds come from the Salvia hispanica plant which is native to Central America. They are about 1 millimeter in diameter, but can absorb twelve times their weight in water. Used in Aztec cuisine for thousands of years, chia seeds are rich in fatty acids, protein and fiber.

Benefits of Chia Seeds for Dogs

Chia seeds do amazing things for your dog’s health. That’s why they are included in every recipe from Ollie dog food. Here are just a few of the reasons why chia seeds should become a part of your dog’s balanced diet.

1. Source of Omega-3 fatty acids

Chia seeds are a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids,contributing to canine cardiac health by strengthening the very cells that make up the heart. As a bonus, omega-3’s also help keep your pup’s coat healthy and shiny.

2. Aid brain function

Pairing head with heart, the omega-3s in chia seeds also aid brain function by strengthening the fatty myelin sheath that improves neurotransmitter speed, associated with better learning and memory in animals.

3. Reduce inflammation

Those same omega-3s help control inflammation within the body: Dogs with osteoarthritis experience improved mobility and reduced pain in their joints with a regular daily dose from chia seeds.

4. Loaded with Fiber

Just when you thought they were all about the omegas, chia seeds bust out the fiber,an essential part of keeping a dog’s digestion train chugging along and absorbing important nutrients along the way.

5. Help with healthy bones

Chia seeds have more calcium than whole milk. Combined with phosphorus, these minerals aid in bone development as well as healthy bone maintenance, while preventing issues like hip dysplasia.

6. High in Protein

While chia seeds aren’t a primary source of protein (that’s wheat meat is for), they do have high protein properties for a plant source. But the real magic happens when combined with meat proteins: their collective protein helps build muscle mass and preserve muscle tissue and health.

7. Helps pups maintain a healthy weight

8. Helps regulate blood sugar

Chia seeds support normal insulin function as well as blood sugar regulation and glucose tolerance—a must for diabetic or prediabetic dogs.

Call them Miss Congeniality: as a non-allergenic food source, chia seeds get along with every dog and every dog diet. In order to get the benefits of chia seeds, you want to feed 1 teaspoon for small dogs or 2 teaspoons for larger dogs, or if you aren’t sure where your dog lies, try 1/4 teaspoon for every 10 pounds of your dog’s body weight. You can start slow and work up to the optimal serving for your pup over a few days or weeks to avoid any stomach upset. Chia seeds have a long shelf life and can be sprinkled or stirred into any number of foods to give them a superfood nutrition boost.
tirred into any number of foods to give them a superfood nutrition boost.

The Ollie blog is devoted to helping pet parents lead healthier lives with their pups. If you want to learn more about our fresh, human-grade food, check out MyOllie.com.