As more and more people recognize their nutritional value, sorghum and flaxseed are becoming more and more visible on our grocery shelves and in our food – including dog food.
What are Sorghum and Flaxseed And Why Are They So Great?
Sorghum has been touted for its ability to reduce the risk of skin and colon cancer, help lower cholesterol and boost cardiovascular health. An ancient non-GMO grain, it is rich in minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. It’s also cheap to produce which is why it populates many ingredient labels.
Another bonus?
It’s gluten-free, which makes it perfect for pups who have digestive issues with wheat. In fact, it can actually improve gut health since it also qualifies as a prebiotic type fiber.
Flaxseed is one of the world’s first superfoods. It’s a plant-based protein and dietary fiber high in Omega-3 fatty acids known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Nutty in flavor, it can help make hair and skin shiny, too.
Why Are They Good for My Dog?
While all dogs aren’t exactly the same when it comes to their dietary needs and preferences, both sorghum and flaxseed are quality ingredients in dog food because they provide your favorite canine companion with fiber, minerals, and vitamins – critical elements for health.
Some dogs, like people, have a gluten intolerance, so sorghum is an excellent
alternative for a nutrient dense ‘filler’ that keeps dogs fuller longer. Flaxseed promotes a
healthy heart, supports joint health, and can help lower cholesterol.
How Do I Add Sorghum and Flaxseed to My Dog’s Food?
You have options when it comes to adding them to your
dog’s diet, but before introducing it during mealtime,
check with your dog’s veterinarian to ensure that it’s safe to do so. Also, remember that it’s rough on your pup’s system if you simply switch out the old food for the new.
Experts highly recommend introducing it slowly over the course of 10 days to give the stomach and digestive system time to slowly and gently adapt. A sudden change will cause gastric distress -- and that can rack up costly visits to the vet as well as guilty feelings for knowing your pet is in pain.
1. Do it yourself. It’s fairly easy to purchase flaxseed and sorghum from your local health food store or online and simply sprinkle them into whatever is in your pup’s bowl. Feel free to mix it up and disguise the addition or just plop it on top of wet or dry food. Note: Skip the whole form since the ground up version of both ingredients is far easier for digestion. The whole form will likely pass right through rather than being absorbed.
2. Purchase dog food and treats with sorghum and flaxseed already incorporated into the kibble. Muenster Ancient Grains with Chicken & Pork is locally sourced, with grains grown in Texas, and is free of wheat, soy, and corn, all ingredients known to trigger sensitivities in dogs.
Taking an
active interest in your dog’s diet will only benefit the both of you. Talk to the kind folks at the pet food store, become an avid label-reader, research online, and consult your veterinarian to fully arm yourself with knowledge. It may lead to a
longer and healthier life for your dog!
