Mary Allen
Flaxseeds are known for their digestive and supportive effects on the stomach and intestines.
But does this also apply to dogs? “Can dogs eat flaxseed?”
This article revolves around this question. Here you can find out whether and for what purpose you can feed your dog flaxseed, which dosage is the right one and whether linseed oil is also suitable for feeding your dog.
It’s great that you’re taking an interest in your dog’s diet and health!
We hope you enjoy reading!
In a nutshell: Can dogs eat flaxseed?
Yes, dogs can eat flaxseed! They are very useful for the natural functioning of the stomach and intestines and smooth digestive processes in general. The mucous membranes in the gastrointestinal tract are supported and the peristaltic function of the intestine is stimulated.
Linseed also ensures a healthy skin barrier, a shiny coat, and a good immune system.
Is Flaxseed Toxic to Dogs?
No, flaxseed is not toxic to dogs at all!
They are well tolerated by most dogs and have many positive qualities.
What does flaxseed do for dogs?
Flaxseed has many supporting functions for your dog:
- support the natural function of the stomach and intestines
- have a digestive effect
- Peristaltic function of the intestine is boosted
- Skin protection barrier is strengthened
- ensure a shiny coat
- strengthen the immune system
Good to know:
Flaxseed is not a staple food for dogs. But you are welcome to offer them occasionally as a side dish in the bowl.
Flaxseed Dosage & Feeding Advice
At first you might be wondering, “Should I cook the flaxseeds, soak them, or feed them raw?” The answer is: everything is possible!
| Soaked/cooked flaxseeds | Raw Flaxseed |
| boil or let it swell for at least one hour before consumption | provide enough water to drink |
| strengthen natural function of the gastric mucosa | support the natural peristaltic function of the intestines |
| the so-called linseed mucilage is formed during cooking | ground flaxseeds are more effective than whole seeds |
Flaxseed – What is the right dosage for my dog?
As a responsible dog owner, you always feed flaxseed in moderation. In general, you can’t do too much wrong with the dosage, because flaxseed is not harmful to dogs. It goes without saying that you don’t stuff your dog with it.
Numbers friends can use this amount as a guide:
Small dogs: about 5 g per day
Large dogs: approx. 10 g per day
Tip:
Flaxseed or flaxseed gruel will be especially tasty for your dog when combined with cottage cheese, mashed carrot, and cooked chicken. The recipe is also ideal as a light meal!
What can flaxseed help with?
The positive properties of linseed help in many places in the dog’s body, for example:
Linseed & anal gland – what’s up?
Some dogs have trouble clearing the anal glands. This can be very painful in the long run.
Flaxseeds can help! Normally, the anal glands empty automatically when defecation occurs. If not, feed your dog raw flaxseed. They make the stool harder and can help empty the anal glands.
Will flaxseed help my dog with diarrhea?
Yes, flaxseed can also help with diarrhea.
Again, don’t soak the seeds before feeding. In this way they absorb water from the large intestine and strengthen the consistency of the faeces.
Do flaxseeds help with gastric mucosal inflammation?
Gastritis is not something to be trifled with! You should definitely contact your veterinarian, get your dog checked out and treated, and talk to them about giving them flaxseed!
If he agrees, you can pre-cook them for your dog and then feed them. The flaxseed mucus lays like a protective layer over the stomach and intestinal mucous membranes. Irritation is relieved and the anti-inflammatory effect of the seeds benefits the irritated digestive tract.
Flea seed husks or linseed – which is better?
Both psyllium and psyllium husks as well as linseed have a positive effect on your dog’s digestive tract!
You can use them both as a supplement to his diet. The only important thing is to decide on one thing and then feed it over a certain period of time.
Can dogs eat linseed oil?
Yes, yes, and again yes! Linseed oil is a true immune booster for your dog and is welcome to be put in the bowl regularly!
In general, it is very healthy to mix a dash of oil with your dog’s food every two days. Due to the optimal ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, linseed oil is one of the best oils you can give your dog.
Linseed oil also has an anti-inflammatory effect and supports the natural gastrointestinal function.
Linseed oil can also be used topically to treat abscesses and eczema!
Tip:
You can also give your dog hemp oil, salmon oil, borage oil, evening primrose oil, canola oil, black seed oil, or walnut oil. It will be perfect if you always vary a bit here.
Can dogs eat flaxseed? At a glance
Yes, dogs can eat flaxseed! You really only have advantages.
Depending on what you want to achieve, you can feed the flaxseed soaked, cooked, or raw. Since they draw a lot of water and swell a lot, you should always provide your dog with enough water.
Linseed has a positive effect on the skin, coat, and digestion. They also have an anti-inflammatory effect.
Can you feed your dog linseed oil? Yes please, absolutely! Due to its composition, it is one of the best oils for our four-legged friends!
Do you have any questions about feeding flaxseed? Then please write us a comment under this article.