Can Dogs Eat Hemp Seeds: Benefits and Precautions

Dogs can eat Hemp Seeds, but these seeds are not a primary food source for dogs. Consider them as a supplement for complete amino acids and incorporate them into your dog’s diet.

What Are Hemp Seeds?

Hemp seeds come from the Cannabis sativa plant, but don’t let the name fool you; these seeds won’t give your furry friend any psychoactive effects. They’re the small, brown seeds often hailed for their nutritional profile, including proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, and fiber. When the outer shell is removed, what’s left is often called “hemp hearts,” the soft, nutrient-rich core¹.

Can Dogs Safely Consume Hemp Seeds?

Absolutely, dogs can eat hemp seeds, but like any treat, moderation is key. These seeds are free from THC(Or in small quantities)², the compound that gives marijuana its psychoactive properties, ensuring your dog remains unaffected in that regard.

The Health Benefits of Hemp Seeds for Dogs

• Skin and Coat Health: The omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in hemp seeds are in an ideal ratio for maintaining your dog’s skin moisture and promoting a shiny, healthy coat³. Imagine your dog’s coat looking like it just came from a groomer’s, every day!
• Joint Health: If your dog is getting on in years or is particularly active, the anti-inflammatory properties of hemp seeds might just be what they need to ease those creaky joints⁴.
• Heart Health: Rich in magnesium, hemp seeds support heart function⁵, which is crucial for keeping your dog’s tail wagging for years to come.
• Digestion: Fiber in hemp seeds aids in digestion, potentially reducing constipation and supporting a healthy gut flora. It’s like giving your dog’s digestive system a gentle, natural boost⁶.
• Immune System Boost: With a cocktail of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, hemp seeds can help fortify your dog’s immune defenses⁷.

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How Much Is Too Much?

For adult dogs, a tablespoon per day should suffice, while puppies can start with half that amount. Introduce hemp seeds slowly into their diet to watch for any adverse reactions, like digestive upset.

Serving Suggestions

• Top Their Food: Sprinkle hemp seeds over their regular kibble for an easy nutrient boost.
• In Treats: Mix them into homemade dog biscuits or blend into a treat paste.
• Hemp Seed Oil: A drizzle of hemp seed oil can also be an alternative way to incorporate these benefits.

Alternatives to Hemp Seeds

If hemp seeds aren’t on hand, consider these substitutes:

• Flaxseeds: They offer a similar nutty taste with good omega-3 content.
• Chia Seeds: These tiny seeds pack a punch with protein, fiber, and omega-3s.
• Pumpkin Seeds: A crunchy treat with beneficial antioxidants and minerals.

The Science Behind Hemp Seeds in Dog Diets

Recent studies, like one conducted in Naples with a double-blind nutritional trial, suggest that hempseed cake (a byproduct of hemp oil extraction) could be a valuable addition to canine diets⁸⁹. Dogs fed with hempseed cake showed improved liver and kidney function markers and better cholesterol levels, showcasing the potential health benefits.

However, it’s worth noting that hemp products might have a higher peroxidation index, which could affect shelf life. Always check for freshness when buying or storing hemp products for your pets.

In Conclusion

Hemp seeds can be a superfood for dogs when used correctly. They offer a plethora of health benefits from improving coat quality to supporting joint health. Remember, before making any significant changes to your dog’s diet, a chat with your vet is always a wise move. Who knows, hemp seeds might just become your dog’s new favorite snack, leading to a happier, healthier pooch!

1. https://zh.wikipedia.org/zh-cn/%E7%81%AB%E9%BA%BB ↩︎
2. https://www.healthline.com/health/hemp-vs-marijuana ↩︎
3. https://www.caninekinetics.com.au/blog/hemp-seed-oil-for-dogs-unlocking-the-nutritional-benefits ↩︎
4. https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-hemp-seeds ↩︎
5. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/hemp-seed-benefits ↩︎
6. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S092666902401104X ↩︎
7. https://www.eatingwell.com/what-happens-to-your-body-when-you-eat-hemp-seeds-regularly-8687262 ↩︎
8. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2021.754625/full ↩︎
9. https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2020.00387/full?amp=1 ↩︎