Sunflower seeds are a favorite salty snack with a crunchy, nutty, delicious taste. We know that sunflower seeds are a source of important nutrients for humans, including vitamins, minerals, protein, and fatty acids.
How about for our pets? Can dogs eat sunflower seeds? The answer to this requires a little more explanation.
Dogs can eat sunflower seeds, but there are a few caveats. You’ll need to consider whether the seeds are peeled and unsalted, as well as their size and whether they are given in moderation.
We’ll take a closer look at sunflower seeds, their nutritional benefit, how dogs can eat these seeds safely, and potential side effects. After reading about these options, we hope you will consider whether you want to give these seeds to your dog.
Article Summary
A Guide to Sunflower Seeds for Dogs
Sunflower seeds, in short, come from the sunflower, a member of the Asteraceae family known for its height. Although a popular flower throughout the world, sunflowers are native to the Plains states of the U.S.
Each of these plants has two distinct parts, with a perimeter containing the stunning yellow petals and a center area, containing hundreds of edible seeds. These seeds have been a popular treat for generations.
Each of the seeds also contains distinctive parts. These seeds have a conical shape, with a black exterior and a single kernel inside, which is edible.
Many of us enjoy eating sunflower seeds and products made with these tasty treats.
Is it safe for dogs to eat sunflower seeds and enjoy any nutritional benefits?
If you know how to give these to your dog safely, you’ll enjoy these benefits. We’ll take a closer look at the nutrients that these seeds contain, including healthy fats.
Dogs can eat sunflower seeds without significant problems if they know when and how to do so. You will also need to be aware of which kinds of sunflower seeds to avoid.
There are some essential things to remember about seeds, regardless of their source. One is that the seeds should be free of added salt, and another is that they should be eaten peeled.
The black shell part of the seed is something that dogs should never eat. Gastrointestinal problems and diarrhea can occur if dogs swallow the shells.
Sunflower seeds are high in antioxidants and other important nutrients. In addition to vitamins and minerals, 1/4 c. of sunflower seeds contain:
- 4 grams of fiber
- 16 grams of fat
- 6 grams of protein
- 190 calories
These seeds are rich in Vitamins B1, B3, B6, and E, all of which are required in dog nutrition and diet. Minerals and nutrients that you will find in sunflower seeds include copper, folate, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, and selenium.
Sunflower seeds, like other seeds and nuts, have a reputation for being great for the skin. Trials involving humans have shown positive results, and many wonder if dogs would have similar effects.
One thing that many are pleased to learn is that there have been studies involving sunflower seeds and dogs. The research has shown improvements in dogs’ skin and coats [1].
Based on studies done, linoleic acid in the sunflower seeds helps reduce aging effects, and the seeds potentially help stop tumors from growing. Magnesium, which the seeds contain, has been linked to better diabetes control, and the Vitamin E in sunflower seeds may help cholesterol levels.
Sunflower seed components also have benefits that research backs up. The sunflower seed oil contains the beneficial nutrients also found in the kernels.
Although many of the benefits we look at are theory-based, they are worthy of consideration.
5 Unique Benefits of Sunflower Seeds for Dogs
1. Sunflower seeds have trace minerals that help overall health. Some of these examples include:
- Bone, collagen, connective tissue, and red blood cell growth
- Stronger immune systems
- Healthier reproductive systems
- Carbohydrate, enzyme, and protein regulation
- Hemoglobin and hormone production
- Proper brain function
- Strong bone growth
2. Sunflower seeds show promise in reducing depression and stress in dogs
Sunflowers are related to the chamomile plant and, like their relatives, can calm anxious dogs. The nutrient most responsible for this effect is magnesium, which has well-known anxiety and stress-relieving properties.
Because sunflower seeds have a lot of B vitamins, they help to enhance brain activity. The associated nutrients, like pyridoxine and niacin, help reduce anxiety and other neurotic activity.
Sunflower seeds contain tryptophan, which helps stimulate serotonin. Benefits of serotonin include reduced aggressive behavior and better recovery from stress.
3. Sunflower seeds have one of the most important antioxidants, Vitamin E
A single ounce of sunflower seeds contains a dog’s daily allowance for Vitamin E. This vitamin helps protect your dog’s akin from damaging free radicals.
In addition to healthy cholesterol level management, other benefits include:
- Creation of healthy cell membranes
- Cell respiration
- Healthy fat metabolism
4. Sunflower seeds help create good cholesterol
Many think of cholesterol as being a bad thing and don’t think about good cholesterol. Sunflower seeds boost good cholesterol production, as well as reduce the amount of bad cholesterol.
Vitamin E is what plays a role in managing cholesterol levels. The benefits for your dog include lower heart disease or stroke risk, as well as healthy blood pressure.
5. Don’t forget that sunflower seeds help your dog’s coat and skin
As we saw earlier, sunflower seeds help improve dogs’ hair and skin over time. This benefit is due to the presence of a high amount of essential fatty acids.
Although we often think of fats as being bad, this is not the case with fatty acids. These fats are healthy and natural.
You will see a visible improvement in your dog’s coat quality. Dogs are less likely to experience problems like dry skin, hot spots, and rashes.
In short, we can say that there are benefits to feeding dogs sunflower seeds. If you select unsalted seeds, make sure you peel the seeds and feed them in moderation, you will be doing well.
Most dogs enjoy sunflower seeds, either as a tasty meal topper or as a reward. However, despite the benefits, there are a few side effects that we’ll also take a look at.
3 Side Effects of Sunflower Seeds for Dogs to Look Out For
What do dog owners need to know about circumstances where sunflower seeds can be bad for dogs? Here are some of the most important:
1. Sunflower seeds need to be eaten in small quantities
You’ll benefit from restricting the number of sunflower seeds you give your dog, as well as the frequency. Even though the fats in these seeds are healthy, they are difficult for the digestive system.
2. Shelled sunflower seeds are not safe for dogs
Most sunflower seeds that come from a store are still in their shells. Shelled seeds are unsafe because dogs can choke on them, especially if consuming several at once.
Seeds can also accumulate in a dog’s digestive system because of their difficulty in breaking down. Blockages or obstructions in the gastrointestinal system can become emergencies very quickly.
3. Most commercial sunflower seeds contain salt
One of the things that makes sunflower seeds a popular snack is added salt. Is salt is bad for dogs? If given in excess, yes, it can be dangerous for dogs.
Sodium toxicosis is a possible effect of excess salt with the effects depending on the amount consumed. Excessive thirst and urination, seizures, diarrhea and vomiting, and imbalance are typical symptoms. Avoid feeding your dog salted sunflower seeds.
In Conclusion
As we have seen, sunflower seeds are safe for dogs in moderation. If you’ve been looking for the best dog treats and have thought about using sunflower seeds, you’ll be pleased.
Your dog’s health will get an essential boost because of the vitamins and minerals that sunflower seeds contain. Choosing the amount that you feed wisely makes a difference.
Buying natural seeds without salt or spices is safe for your dog. You’ll want to purchase seeds that are already peeled or make sure you peel them before giving them to your dog.
You’ll find sunflower seeds beneficial for your dog’s skin, coat, and overall health. Making sure that you take the appropriate care will ensure that your dog benefits from consuming these seeds as much as possible.
FAQs
1. What happens if a dog eats sunflower seeds?
Single sunflower seeds are unlikely to make a difference. However, eating the seeds to excess might cause diarrhea and vomiting.
You may need to watch for pancreatitis, an inflamed pancreas that can be very painful. This condition is most common in puppies and small dogs.
Small quantities of sunflower seeds are safe and healthy for your dog. However, avoid feeding in excessive amounts.
2. Are sunflower seeds toxic to dogs?
None of the parts that make up sunflower seeds are poisonous. However, the shells present a different type of problem.
The sunflower seed shell is not something that dogs can breakthrough as we do. Because dogs cannot chew the shells properly, they are likely to ingest the whole kernel with the shell.
Swallowing sunflower seeds with shells can lead to painful intestinal blockages. Smaller dogs are more likely to experience these types of blockages with severe symptoms.
3. How many sunflower seeds can a dog eat?
Sunflower seed shells are very capable of making your dog sick. Too many of the seeds, even without the shells, can sicken dogs.
However, your dog’s seed snack can be very low-risk. Always keep the number of seeds that you feed your dog low and make sure they never have the shells.
Some dogs may develop digestive upsets despite avoiding shells and feeding sunflower seeds in smaller amount. When this occurs, you will want to consider giving your dog a different type of snack.
4. What seeds can dogs not eat?
Dogs cannot eat sunflower seeds that are still in their shells. Apple seeds have a known high toxicity level, and fruit pits from cherries, as well as avocado pits, are also dangerous for dogs to consume.
