Superfoods for dogs - what are health benefits of spirulina and beetroot?

We know that superfoods have great benefits for human health. Superfoods are nutrient-dense foods that are high in natural anti-oxidants. Two great examples of superfoods are beetroot and spirulina as both pack in more vitamins and minerals per gram than your average fruit or veg.

In fact, beetroot and spirulina have been used for centuries by humans to enhance their diet and boost health. You may have seen spirulina, either in tablet or powder form, in your local health food shop. Whilst beetroot, once used in mediaeval times to treat medical ailments, is now a common ingredient in many everyday recipes. However, what about the benefits of these superfoods for your favourite four legged friend?

So what are the benefits of spirulina for your dog?

• Spirulina is packed full of nutrients which include B vitamins, beta carotene and minerals iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium, calcium and zinc. 
• In dogs, these nutrients have been shown to act as an anti-inflammatory and anti-allergen.
• Additionally spirulina can help immune system function.

And the benefits of beetroot for your dog?

• Beetroot contains vitamin C, managanese, fibre, folate and potassium.
• These nutrients are great for your dog’s coat and skin, helping to keep their fur shiny.
• The vitamins in beetroot can help your dog’s vision and immune system. 
• The iron in beetroot is great for their cardiovascular health. 

How can you give superfoods to your dog?

Of course as a pet owner, the most important thing that may concern you is that your dog is happy and healthy and not getting too much or little of the things they need. As you start out using supplements for your pet, the correct dosage of spirulina or beetroot for your pooch may be hard to determine. 

Spirulina:

• Research suggests that one eighth of a teaspoon per every ten pounds your dog weighs is the correct amount for your pup. 
• If you are unsure of the correct amount to feed your dog and are just starting out with this supplement, then dog treats containing spirulina are an ideal starting place. 
• Dog treats usually contain a lower concentration of spirulina and are safe when given in addition to your pet’s usual daily diet. Then you can relax knowing you are not inadvertently giving your pooch too much of the supplement. 

Beetroot:

• Give your dog small amounts of beetroot. Too much will not harm your dog but beetroot is high in natural sugars which should be avoided in large amounts.
• Beetroot in powdered form and be added to your dog’s food. 
• Use raw or powdered beetroot rather than canned as this contains too much added sodium. 

At Queens of the Bone Age, we add small amounts of carefully sourced natural, organic beetroot and spirulina powders to our bestselling biscuits. They are what give these biscuits their unique colours, flavours and smells that our pup customers go crazy for. 

Have you tried your dog with either of these delicious flavours? We’d love to hear what your pups think about these superfoods!