Hemp seed oil for dogs – Effects, Benefits & Dosage

Why Plant Oils Are Important for Dogs

Healthy and high-quality oils and fats are vital for our active four-legged friends. They provide almost twice as much energy as carbohydrates and proteins and additionally form important energy reserves. Besides their function as structural components of cell membranes, they are also converted into hormones, and the body cannot utilize vitamins A, D, E, and K without fat. Practically, a layer of fat keeps warm and cushions some impact when playing or fighting. Hemp seed oil is one of the richest cooking oils and offers a lot when added to the food bowl: With a content of over 80 percent essential fatty acids and many other valuable ingredients, it provides not only us but also our beloved four-legged friends with important nutrients.

Hemp Seed Oil: Omega-3 and Omega-6 Fatty Acids in an Ideal Ratio

In addition to precious Omega-3 fatty acids, hemp seed oil also contains plenty of Omega-6 fatty acids, which are essential for many bodily functions. They are particularly important for dogs because their bodies cannot produce them, meaning they must be regularly obtained through food. The ideal ratio of 1:3(-4) between Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids makes hemp seed oil especially beneficial, as they can strengthen the immune system and defense mechanisms. Additionally, hemp seed oil contains gamma-linolenic acid, a rare triple unsaturated Omega-6 fatty acid. A deficiency can lead to skin problems in our pets, such as itching and eczema, and even neurodermatitis.

Healthy Skin and Shiny Coat with Hemp Seed Oil

Skin and hair are crucial for a vital and appealing appearance, not just for us. The condition of our dogs' skin and coat is also a visible indicator of their health status. And who wouldn't want their four-legged friend to have resilient skin and a dense, shiny, and silky-soft coat? Besides the valuable fatty acids in hemp seed oil, the high content of vitamin E can visibly strengthen and noticeably pamper skin and coat. Hemp seed oil also supports digestion and can have anti-inflammatory and balancing effects during stress and restlessness. Furthermore, the rich mix of important nutrients such as zinc, phosphorus, iron, magnesium, potassium, copper, and manganese is crucial for many metabolic processes.

Hemp Seed Oil as an Optimal Supplement for Dogs

For its full effect, regular use is advisable, ideally together with home-prepared food or during BARFing. This feeding method has been specifically developed for domestic dogs, based on the eating habits of wolves and wild dogs, their wild relatives. The rations are fed raw and consist of fresh meat, offal, bones, and fish. Additionally, fruits and vegetables are included, and if necessary, grain products and high-quality plant oils are added to ensure that the dog is supplied with all essential fatty acids.

One for All – Hemp Seed Oil for Puppies, Young Dogs, and "Seniors"

The "liquid gold" from the hemp seeds nourishes both young and old, and even older dogs can remain active into old age with its support. The dosage should be adjusted according to the dog's body weight. It is also important to consider whether the particularly used commercial food already contains an oil source and, if so, in what quantity. Since too much hemp seed oil can lead to diarrhea and vomiting, it is advisable to start with a few drops, gradually increasing the amount, and discussing the dosage with a veterinarian in advance.

Only the Best, Therefore Organic Quality!

Hemp seed oil is extracted from the seeds of the hemp plant, which contains a great variety of nutrients. To preserve their concentrated power, it should be cold-pressed gently and be 100 percent pure, meaning it should contain no chemical additives, residues, or pesticide residues. Additionally, hemp seed oil can also be applied externally, for example, on dry or inflamed skin areas. A few drops can be dripped onto the affected area and gently massaged in.

Caution When Feeding Cats

Our feline friends lack certain enzymes necessary to break down the secondary plant substances and terpenes contained in hemp seed oil. In contrast, for example, salmon oil is another high-quality oil that is suitable for both dogs and cats. Salmon oil also provides essential Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids for healthy skin and a shiny coat. It is traditionally given for dry skin, eczema, itching, dandruff, skin inflammation, and thin fur, and can also be helpful for loss of appetite, allergic diseases, and a weakened immune system. With the polyunsaturated Omega-3 fatty acids eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), it contains two important components that are otherwise rarely found in plant oils. In dogs and cats, they can contribute to normal coat and skin metabolism as well as promote healthy development and good condition.

Alternative Oils for Dogs: Salmon Oil, Flaxseed Oil, Evening Primrose Oil

Our four-legged friends also love variety, not just in their world of scents. High-quality healthy plant oils can provide different taste experiences in the food bowl with their various components and effects. By adding safflower oil, our friends are richly supplied with Omega-3 fatty acids, positively affecting skin and coat, as well as small wounds and inflammations. Vitamin E benefits the immune system, and linoleic acid strengthens metabolism and the nervous system. In evening primrose oil, like in hemp seed oil, we find the rare gamma-linolenic acid. Besides its use for coat care, it is also said to positively influence skin diseases, arthritis, and digestive disorders and contains important amino acids, minerals, and vitamins. Flaxseed oil excels like hemp seed oil with its advantageous ratio of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. It pampers dog skin, makes coats shine, and can be effective against itching, bald spots, and dandruff.

Caution with Coconut Oil & Black Seed Oil

Not all oils should be fed without hesitation. Coconut oil provides quick energy due to its high content of saturated medium-chain fatty acids, which the body easily breaks down into monoglycerides. Rich in lauric acid, it can be effective against various pathogens such as fungi, bacteria, and viruses and is often used for natural deworming in dogs. When applied externally, coconut oil makes the coat shiny and can care for dry and scabby skin areas. However, some dogs may have allergic reactions, so it is advisable to test the oil cautiously. The many saturated fatty acids also promote the formation of fat deposits and can accumulate in the vessels. Scent hounds showed less sensitivity to smells, and dogs suffering from diabetes mellitus should not be fed coconut fat at all. This is because the oil is metabolized into ketones in the body, with which affected animals are already burdened due to insufficient insulin, potentially leading to organ damage. Black seed oil is not only rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids like linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid but also in essential oils and vitamins. It can promote digestion by assisting the intestines in clearing fungi and toxins, strengthen the immune system, and have anti-inflammatory effects. It is also said to support against allergies and skin and coat problems and allegedly protects against ticks and other pesky parasites. However, due to the essential oils contained, it should only be given in courses, meaning not daily and only dropwise in small amounts in dog food, preferably after prior consultation with a veterinarian. Essential oils are metabolized by the liver and should therefore always be used purposefully and in small amounts. In cases of liver diseases or medication burden, and also in pregnant bitches, black seed oil should be completely avoided. And for cats, black seed oil is fundamentally taboo. Their bodies can only slowly break down the terpenes and phenols contained in the essential oils in the liver. To excrete them, they are normally bound to glucuronic acid there. However, cats lack an enzyme needed to convert the fat-soluble molecules into water-soluble metabolic end products.

Sources:
www.hundeo.com/gesundheit/gesunde-oele/hanfoel/
www.gesundheitszentrum-fuer-kleintiere-luedinghausen.de/tierarztblog/artikel/kokosoel-hund.html
www.barf-blog.de/schwarzkuemmeloel/

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