How and Why You Should Add Hemp Seed Oil to Your Dog’s Diet

Many dog owners have reported that hemp seed oil given to their dogs has shown positive benefits for; pain relief, seizures, arthritis, anxiety, cognitive function and coat lustness. Hemp seed oil is full of powerful nutrients and healthy fatty acids. Due to the richness of the oil, make sure you check with your vet before starting a new hemp seed health supplement routine for your pup.

Around 1 teaspoon of hemp seed oil added to each pound of meat or dry food should be sufficient. Allow the oil to completely soak into food before you give it to your dog. The breed and size of your dog, plus his digestive health will determine how much hemp seed oil will suit your dog. Your vet can help you work this out.

Why Your Dog Will Benefit from Hemp Seed Oil

Containing a varied amount of good fatty acids, nutrients and antioxidants, hemp seed oil is a beneficial supplement for dogs.

• Omega3 and 6 fatty acids. These will aid in keeping skin and coat healthy and boost immune system. Plus, they will assist in preventing arthritis, allergies, irritable bowel disease, diabetes and cancer.
• GLA (Gamma Linolenic Acid). This will support weight management, reduce skin allergies, support immune function and aid in stimulating cancer cell death.
• Antioxidants. Great for your pup’s eyes, heart, cognitive function and will also help the fight against free radical damage. Free radicals can speed up the progression of disease and premature ageing.
• Phospholipids. These will help to boost immune system, improve brain health and cognitive disorders and assist in managing arthritis pain and inflammation.

When Not to Give Your Dog Hemp Oil

Hemp seed oil should not be given to your dog as a health supplement if his diet is primarily chicken. Both hemp oil and chicken contain high amounts of polyunsaturated fats and can cause an unhealthy balance in your dog’s diet. Flaxseed oil is an alternative as a health supplement, if you feed your dog a lot of chicken.

Also, do not cook your dog’s food with hemp oil. It is unstable at high temperatures and can even become toxic.

Is Hemp Seed Oil Really Safe for Your Dog?

As long as you follow the points mentioned above and check with your vet first, hemp seed oil as a health supplement for your dog is safe. Hemp seed oil has extremely low to non-existent levels of THC (the psychoactive compound).

It is even said to be a safer supplement than fish oil, as it is cold pressed making it more stable. Fish oil is heated and can turn rancid quickly if not looked after.