The hemp seed, which derives from the hemp plant, is packed with nutrients and healthy fats that can greatly benefit your dogs overall well being. Although the hemp plant is a relative of the cannabis plant, it contains no psychoactive components. It should be noted that the hemp seed, and hemp oil, which is the oil that is extracted from the seed through a procedure called cold pressing and is produced using other parts from the hemp plant, have different uses. Because of the way the oil is made, it contains cannabinoids, terpenes and other chemical compounds found in the plant that don't necessarily have the same health benefits as the seed alone. For this reason we will discuss the addition of the seed to your pups diet and the benefits therein.
Hemp hearts, or more simply the unshelled hemp seed are safe for your dog to consume, however we want to stress the importance of grinding these seeds in a coffee grinder, blender or food processor in order to add the seed in powder form to your pups food. This is to avoid any possibility of a choking or other internal hazard!
They contain a high protein content, which is vital for muscle development, tissue repair, immune function and and making essential hormones and enzymes. Especially important for dogs on a plant based diet, these seeds are a fantastic source of protein with a dense content, about 31 grams of protein for every 10 grams of seeds.
These seeds are also rich in essential fatty acids, which we've learned from other recommended oil supplements, are important for brain function, fighting inflammation, improved immunity, the control of cholesterol levels and also promote healthy skin and coat in dogs. Because the seeds are a good source of omega-3 and 6 essential fatty acids, which the body cannot produce on it's own, they can be a good way to add these fats to your pups diet.
They also are high in fiber, which plays a key role in digestive health and promotes the growth of beneficial gut microbes, which is a key element in keeping a healthy immune system, as well as helping the body absorb the nutrients that it needs and expel and aid in healthy bowel movements which remove the substances in the dog's body that it doesn't need. Adding hemp seed to a pups diet who may be battling constipation or digestive issues can be extremely helpful.
Finally, these seeds are packed with vitamins like A, D and E which play roles as antioxidants, protecting cells from damage and also support immune and bone health. Minerals like potassium, calcium, iron, sulfur and zinc are also plentiful in the seeds and play a crucial part in several physiological processes including spine health and the transport of oxygen in the blood.
Packed full of nutrients, healthy fats, protein and fiber, these seeds are a nutritional powerhouse that can help your dog's skin and coat health, joint health, boost the immune system, aid in a heart health, help manage blood pressure and aid in a healthy digestive system!
As stated above, the main health benefits will come from the seed itself, so using hemp seed oil may not yield the same results as the seed alone. In order to reap the befits of the seed, it should be crushed or blended into a powder and added to your pups meal and mixed in. Grinding the seeds will prevent any choking hazard and will make it easier and safer for your dog to digest and absorb as well as make it more easy to mix in with the food it is added to.
As always, it is best to find organic, non-gmo seeds as those will be free from pesticides and other harmful chemicals that can actually harm our pets and counteract the benefits. The abundance of essential nutrients in organic hemp seeds make them a highly valued addition to your dogs overall health. As with any new ingredient however, you should introduce the seed into the diet starting with a small amount, perhaps starting with a half tablespoon to make sure that there is no issue with digestion or a potential allergic reaction. Always start small when adding new ingredients to your dog's diet.
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