Long Story Short
- Yes, dogs can snack on chia. ✔️
- Don’t go overboard with the seeds. ⚠️
- A few teaspoons every day is enough ✔️
- You should try baking some delicious dog cookies with chia seeds ✔️
Why Are Chia Seeds Good for Dogs?
Can dogs eat chia seeds? You bet! Get ready for a pawsome treat. Chia seeds are not only safe for dogs, but they pack a healthy punch too! Loaded with antioxidants, these tiny seeds are fur-tastic for keeping your furry friend’s body protected from free radical damage. (Plus, they’re a fiber-filled snack that keeps tails wagging and the digestive system in tip-top shape!)
But wait, there’s more! Chia seeds are also an omega-3 powerhouse, making them the perfect snack for a glossy, gorgeous coat. And the icing on the cake? These tiny wonders help ease inflammation, giving your pup some relief from achy joints or arthritis-related discomfort.
Nutrients in Chia
zinc
magnesium
calcium
iron
phosphorus
potassium
fiber
vitamin B
vitamin E
Potential Side Effects of Feeding Dogs Chia Seeds
Alrighty, the advantages of the super seeds for dogs are clear. Sadly, it’s not all sun and rainbows with chia.
- The raw seeds can swell up when they come in contact with water. They could get stuck in the esophagus.
- Chia seeds contain phytic acid, which can sometimes block the absorption of nutrients.
When it comes to dishing out chia seeds for your doggo, moderation is key! Start with just a sprinkle and keep a watchful eye on their bathroom habits. Gradually increase the amount if everything seems A-OK!
Psst!
The chances are, you’re reading this because your dog stole something with chia seeds from you. In general, a stolen lick or bite rarely results in something serious. Be prepared for vomit or diarrhea, but these may not happen at all. In other words, he will be alright 🙂
Homemade Dog Cookies With Chia Seeds – Recipe
Ingredients
- ½ cup chia seeds
- ¾ cup water
- ¼ cup peanut butter
- ¾ cup whole wheat flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
Instructions
Before we get started, let’s make sure our oven is all warmed up and ready to go. Set it to a toasty 350 degrees and let it do its thing while we prepare the rest of the recipe.
Now, let’s grab a small bowl and mix together some seeds and water. We’ll let them hang out for a bit and thicken up, which should take around 15 minutes or so.
While we wait, let’s get to the fun part – making the dough! Grab your chia seeds, peanut butter, flour, and baking powder and mix them all together until they’re nice and combined.
Once the seeds and water have thickened up, add them into the dough mixture and give everything a good stir. The resulting dough should be nice and firm, but still pliable enough to shape.
On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough to your desired thickness and start cutting out those adorable cookie shapes. Hearts, bones, stars – the possibilities are endless!
Place your cookie creations on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and pop them into the preheated oven. Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until they’re a beautiful golden brown.
Now comes the hard part – waiting for them to cool! Your pup might be drooling at this point, but trust us, it’s worth the wait. Once they’ve cooled completely, you can reward your furry friend with their very own homemade treats. Enjoy!
Can Dogs Eat Chia Seed Pudding?
„Paws” up if your pup loves chia seed pudding! Made with almond milk, this delightful dessert is a doggy-approved delight. Just follow these easy-peasy steps:
- Combine 1 cup of almond milk with 1/4 cup of chia seeds.
- Give it a good stir and pop it in the fridge overnight.
- Voilà! A tasty treat for your fur-baby to enjoy the next day!
Boost the health benefits by adding some juicy blueberries and strawberries for extra vitamins and minerals. Just remember, chia seed pudding is a no-no for expecting or nursing dog moms.
How Much Chia Is Safe for Dogs?
„So, how much chia can I give my dog?” you probably wonder. Well, not much, actually.
You can offer your dog 1/4 teaspoon of chia seeds per 10 pounds of body weight per day (basically a few spoons). If your dog has a sensitive stomach, give him a spoonful, and see how he reacts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Chia Seeds Need to Be Soaked for Dogs?
Soaking the seeds makes them easier to digest, and the process can be as simple as combining the seeds with water overnight.
Will Chia Seeds Help My Dog Poop?
Chia seeds are high in fiber, so they can make your doggo’s bowel movements more frequent. This can be especially helpful for dogs with gastrointestinal issues.
How Do I Add Chia Seeds to My Dog’s Food?
Just mix a little of the soaked seeds into your dog’s food or sprinkle them on top of their dinner.
