Seeds in Canine Nutrition: Nutrient-Rich Additions to a Functional Diet
In species-appropriate canine nutrition, seeds can offer a concentrated source of essential fatty acids, trace minerals, fibre, antioxidants, and plant-based compounds that support overall health. Although they are not a replacement for animal-derived nutrients, certain seeds—when properly prepared and fed in moderation—can complement a balanced, whole food or raw diet.
However, their use must be carefully considered in light of species-specific digestive physiology, potential anti-nutritional factors, and the lower bioavailability of certain nutrients compared to animal sources. This article outlines the role of seeds in dog nutrition, appropriate preparation methods, and important safety considerations.
Nutritional Role of Seeds in a Canine Diet
Seeds are highly dense nutrient packages that contain the materials required for plant germination and growth. When appropriately introduced into a dog’s diet, they can provide:
Essential fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA, an omega-3) and linoleic acid (omega-6)
Micronutrients such as magnesium, calcium, zinc, selenium, and iron
B-vitamins and vitamin E
Dietary fibre, both soluble and insoluble
Plant-based protein
Lignans and other antioxidants
These properties make seeds useful as functional additions to support skin and coat health, digestion, immune modulation, and oxidative balance.
Common Seeds and Their Benefits
Several seeds are commonly used in raw and whole food diets for dogs due to their nutrient profiles and specific health-supporting effects.
Chia seeds are a rich source of ALA omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, and soluble fibre. When soaked, they form a mucilaginous gel that can help soothe the digestive tract and regulate stool quality.
Flaxseeds are another source of ALA and contain lignans, which may have mild hormone-modulating and antioxidant effects. They are also high in magnesium and B1.
Hemp seeds contain a desirable omega-6 to omega-3 ratio of approximately 3:1, along with digestible plant protein and trace minerals such as iron and zinc.
Pumpkin seeds are high in zinc, iron, potassium, and healthy fats. They are also noted for their potential anti-parasitic properties, linked to compounds like cucurbitacins.
Sesame seeds offer calcium, magnesium, and vitamin E, and may provide antioxidant and liver-supportive benefits through their lignan content.
Sunflower seeds are rich in vitamin E, copper, and selenium, all of which play roles in antioxidant defense and skin repair.
Bioavailability and Species Appropriateness
While seeds can enhance a canine diet, it is important to understand that their nutrients are generally less bioavailable than those from animal sources. Minerals such as iron, calcium, and zinc are often bound to compounds like phytic acid in plant tissues, which can inhibit their absorption in the digestive tract. Additionally, while seeds are rich in ALA, dogs have a limited ability to convert ALA into the more biologically active forms of omega-3 (EPA and DHA), which are readily available from marine sources.
Plant proteins are also incomplete in amino acid profile and are not as digestible as muscle or organ meats. For these reasons, seeds should be viewed as complementary foods—not substitutes for meat, organs, or animal fats—in a species-appropriate diet.
Correct Preparation of Seeds for Dogs
Seeds contain natural defense compounds, often referred to as anti-nutrients, including phytic acid, oxalates, and enzyme inhibitors. These compounds can interfere with mineral absorption and reduce digestibility if the seeds are fed in their raw, dry form. Proper preparation can mitigate these effects:
Soaking seeds in water (typically for several hours to overnight) helps break down phytic acid and activates enzymes that improve digestibility. Chia, flax, pumpkin, and sesame seeds all benefit from soaking.
Grinding seeds prior to feeding, particularly flax and chia, ensures the nutrients are accessible. Whole seeds often pass through the gastrointestinal tract undigested.
Light roasting can reduce some anti-nutritional factors and improve taste, but excessive heat can degrade heat-sensitive nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin E. Use only gentle, low-temperature roasting if at all.
Sprouting seeds (allowing them to germinate slightly after soaking) increases vitamin levels and enhances digestibility but is more labour-intensive. It may be useful for seeds fed regularly or therapeutically.
Feeding unsoaked, unground seeds in large quantities is not recommended, as this may lead to digestive upset or nutrient imbalances.
Feeding Guidelines
Seeds should be introduced gradually and fed in moderation. In general:
Feed between ½ to 2 teaspoons per 10 kg of body weight, depending on the seed and individual needs.
Rotate seed types weekly to provide varied nutrients and minimise buildup of specific plant compounds.
Always use organic, unsalted, additive-free seeds when possible.
Integrate with meals, bone broth, or fermentations for better palatability and digestive synergy.
Cautions and Toxic Seeds and Nuts
Not all seeds and nuts are safe for dogs. Some contain toxic compounds or are poorly tolerated, even in small quantities. The following should be strictly avoided:
Apple seeds contain amygdalin, which releases cyanide when metabolised.
Cherry, apricot, and peach pits also contain cyanogenic compounds.
Macadamia nuts are toxic to dogs, causing weakness, vomiting, tremors, and fever.
Even non-toxic nuts such as walnuts or almonds can pose a choking hazard, are high in fat, and may lead to pancreatitis if overfed or given in processed forms.
Conclusion
Seeds can be a valuable addition to a canine diet when used appropriately. They contribute a range of essential nutrients, functional compounds, and dietary fibre that support specific health outcomes. However, their limitations in bioavailability and the presence of anti-nutrients require informed preparation and moderation. Additionally, toxic seeds and nuts must be avoided completely.
In the context of a raw or whole-food diet, seeds are best viewed as supportive, rather than foundational. When used correctly, they provide variety, enrichment, and nutritional depth to a biologically appropriate feeding strategy rooted in animal-based whole foods.