15 Nuts And Seeds To Add To Your Dog’s Snack Rotation
Dog snacks can get a little repetitive. So, it’s time to break the cycle and add crunch to the mix. Nuts and seeds are not only a fun alternative, but they’re also packed with flavor and healthy fats your dog will love. So, let’s take a look at 15 nuts and seeds that will spice up your dog’s snack time, making it something they can truly look forward to.
Pumpkin Seeds
Rich in magnesium, zinc, and healthy omega fatty acids, pumpkin seeds are a great addition to your dog’s diet. These tiny seeds help boost the immune system and even contribute to a shiny coat. Remember, when giving your dog pumpkin seeds, it’s best to serve them raw or roasted.
Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds are an ideal source of vitamin E. As a bonus, sunflower seeds are rich in antioxidants, which help fight oxidative stress and keep your dog feeling youthful and energetic. To avoid excess sodium, always serve sunflower seeds unsalted, and opt for shelled varieties.
Almonds
Almonds provide protein and healthy fats. However, almonds should be served in moderation, as they’re difficult for some dogs to digest, particularly if eaten in large quantities. They also pose a choking hazard for small breeds, so it’s important to break them up into smaller pieces.
Cashews
While cashews are a tasty snack, they’re also high in fat, so it’s best to offer them sparingly. Too many cashews can cause weight gain or gastrointestinal upset. So, always opt for unsalted varieties and be cautious of portion sizes.
Pistachios
Pistachios are a tasty snack for your dog when served in moderation. They’re rich in protein and healthy fats, supporting your dog’s overall health. Most importantly, due to their high fat content, pistachios should be an occasional treat rather than a regular snack.
Flaxseeds
Full of omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, flaxseeds are a superfood for dogs, promoting heart health and a glossy coat. Ground flaxseeds are the easiest for your dog to digest. Always add them to meals or sprinkle them on top of your dog’s regular food to boost their nutrient intake.
Chia Seeds
These seeds contain fatty acids and antioxidants. And because chia seeds absorb water, they can be soaked before feeding, which makes them even easier for your dog to digest. Add a spoonful to your dog’s food for an extra nutrient-packed treat, or mix them into homemade dog cookies.
Hazelnuts
Hazelnuts are calorie-dense, which makes it important to feed them in moderation, especially if your dog is on the smaller side or prone to weight gain. As a treat, hazelnuts work well, but they shouldn’t make up a significant portion of your dog’s diet. A few at a time will keep your dog satisfied.
Sesame Seeds
These tiny seeds are safe for dogs and make a crunchy snack that’s easy to sprinkle over meals. You can serve sesame seeds raw or roasted, but always make sure they’re unsalted. If your dog enjoys crunchy snacks, sesame seeds are a healthy, simple addition to their diet.
Hemp Seeds
Packed with omega-3 and omega-6, hemp seeds promote a healthy coat, when given in moderation. Introduce these seeds to your dog gradually, to avoid digestive upset. For fun, sprinkle them on your dog’s food as a nutritious boost they’ll appreciate.
Brazil Nuts
Brazil nuts are high in selenium, which is essential for your dog’s immune function and thyroid health. However, too many Brazil nuts can lead to selenium toxicity. Offer these as a rare treat, ensuring your dog doesn’t consume too many at once.
Walnuts
Walnuts are loved for their omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. However, walnuts are high in fat, so it’s important to feed them in moderation. They also carry the risk of causing digestive upset if consumed in excess. Hence, it’s best to offer just one or two small pieces. Also, ensure they’re fresh and free of mold.
Pine Nuts
As with other nuts, it’s important to feed pine nuts in moderation. If your dog hasn’t had them before, introduce them slowly to avoid digestive upset. Moreover, small dogs may prefer pine nuts broken into smaller pieces, and large dogs will enjoy them whole.
Peanuts
Packed with protein, healthy fats, and vitamins, peanuts are a great way to energize your pup. Just make sure they’re shelled. These crunchy little treats are calorie-dense, so keep them to a few at a time. A little peanut action now and then will keep your pup excited and satisfied without overdoing it.
Quinoa Seeds
While quinoa is gluten-free and easy to digest, it’s best to serve it cooked and well-diluted, as raw quinoa can be tough on your dog’s stomach. Make sure to serve it in moderation, though, as too much can cause digestive upset.
