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Superfood for dogs
Foods with real superpowers for the body are also available for dogs! And because we at PERRO naturally attach the utmost importance to the health of your four-legged friends, we use ingredients with as much added value as possible in our recipes!
Definition:
"The term "superfood" is used to summarise individual foods that are said to have special health benefits . There is no specific or legally binding professional definition for the term "superfood". It is usually understood to mean foods that are associated with greater health benefits than other foods due to their nutrient content."
(source: https://www.gesundheit.gv.at/leben/ernaehrung/gesunde-ernaehrung/superfood.html)
The positive effect of food
For us humans, superfood has long been "on everyone's lips" in the truest sense of the word . We associate it with foods that have a particularly particularly positive effect on our bodies. This is usually justified on the basis of a comparatively higher nutrient and vital substance density. This usually refers to ingredients such as Antioxidants, minerals, trace elements and plant substances are meant.
Chia seeds, goji berries and co have become particularly famous. It was then realised how many foods with superpowers grow right on our doorstep and so more attention was paid to regional superfoods - especially vegetables and fruit.
What is superfood for dogs?
But what is superfood for dogs and do they really need it ?
As with us humans, the ingredients of certain foods are said to increase the well-being and vitality of our four-legged friends. The positive effects of many foods are now known and in some cases scientifically proven.
This fact can also be utilised in dog nutrition . Because the dog's body is also dependent on certain nutrients . And supplying these in a natural form is absolutely sensible.
Power ingredients at PERRO
We have chosen a variety of foods with superpower for our recipes. From regional superfoods to marine powerhouses - only the best with the power of nature goes into our feed and supplements. Below is an overview of the most important ingredients that we use at PERRO.
Superfood overview
Our ingredients can be divided into the following categories:
| Vegetables | Local vegetables with high-quality ingredients for more well-being |
| Fruit | Fruit contains many valuable vitamins |
| Oils | The liquid gold has a wide range of nutrients |
| Cereals | Not to be underestimated - the powerful grains |
| From the sea | With the power of algae and mussels |
Linseed oil
Because of the immense variety of nutrients, the dog's body benefits from linseed oil in a holistic way. The alpha linolenic acid contained in linseed oil is particularly valuable. This omega-3 fatty acid is an essential fatty acid that the body cannot produce itself. Among other things, it strengthens the immune system, has an anti-inflammatory effect and is involved in the production of certain hormones .
Omega 3 also ensures healthy skin and a strong coat. The digestive system is also positively influenced due to the mucilage. Last but not least, it is also responsible for smooth lubrication of the joints and thus strengthens the dog's entire musculoskeletal system.
In addition to the valuable omega-3 fatty acids, linseed oil contains vitamins, minerals and trace elements in particularly good quality:
- Vitamins B1, B2 and B6 as well as C, D, E and K
- Minerals calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, sodium and iodine
- Omega 6 linoleic acid
- Folic acid
Cranberries
Cranberries are real vitamin C bombs. But potassium is also present in large quantities in the small red fruit . Their positive influence on the urinary organs of dogs is also well known. This is mainly due to the fact that cranberries acidify the urine and thus inhibit the multiplication of various germs and bacteria. The red power fruits contain many antioxidants and therefore enjoy the reputation of even being able to slow down the ageing process . This is due to the bioflavonides they contain, which also have an anti-inflammatory effect.
Safflower oil
Milk thistle oil contains particularly high-quality ingredients. The positive effect on the skin and coat should be emphasised in particular. Safflower oil has been very successful in combating itching. This is mainly due to the vitamin A it contains.
The fatty acids in safflower oil are another plus point. Especially linoleic acid, because safflower oil has the highest linoleic acid content of all vegetable oils. It supports the cardiovascular system and the formation and renewal of cells.
The vitamin E contained in safflower oil ensures a strong immune and nervous system, as it protects against free radicals and has an antioxidant effect . The high-quality vegetable oil also has an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effect.
Seaweed
The brown algae from the North Atlantic - also known as the vegetables of the sea - have truly earned the title of superfood . This is because they boast a potpourri of high-quality ingredients. Algae have a very high content of minerals and trace elements such as iodine, zinc, selenium, iron, phosphorus, sodium and magnesium. Omega-3 fatty acids, beta-carotene, high-quality amino acids and antioxidants round off the power package.
Carotenoids, iodine and zinc support the skin metabolism and the pigmentation of the coat and other body parts such as the nose or paw pads. A beautiful and intense colouring as well as a thick, shiny coat can be achieved through the use of seaweed. Seaweed is also said to inhibit the formation of tartar and can also help to dissolve existing tartar.
The amino acid lysine optimises feed conversion and general digestion. The sophisticated vitamin combination in seaweed strengthens the immune system and promotes vitality, condition, performance and general well-being.
Insects
"Insects are THE superfood of the future", many advocates agree. They have been playing an important role in our dogs' diets for some time now - and for good reason. In addition to their positive climate balance , they also score points with really high-quality ingredients.
Insect protein contains the valuable and vital essentialfatty acids omega-3 and omega-6 and as well as zinc, iron and calcium. They have a natural, balanced calcium-phosphorus ratio. Omega-6 fatty acids regulate energy production (metabolism), strengthen bones and ensure vital skin and coat. Omega-3 fatty acids strengthen the immune system, have an anti-inflammatoryeffect and provide the joints with lubricants.
Amaranth
It is one of the oldest crops in the world and is not a grain but a foxtail plant, making it gluten-free . And its ingredients are truly phenomenal. The high protein content keeps the dog full for a long time and supports muscle development. Compared to conventional wheat, amaranth has around 30 % more fibre and zinc, twice as much iron and significantly more magnesium and calcium.
The fibre it contains aids digestion and also prevents cardiovascular disease. Iron supports blood formation and the dog's oxygen supply . Zinc, potassium and phosphorus strengthen muscles and bones and vitamins A, C and E ensure good resistance. Essential amino acids support a healthy metabolism. The high-quality omega-3 fatty acids have an anti-inflammatory effect, strengthen the immune system and contribute to general well-being.
Beetroot
This tasty, home-grown vegetable is a true all-rounder when it comes to providing dogs with vitamins . It contains large amounts of vitamins A, B and C in particular. B vitamins boost the body's defences and support the nerves. Iron and potassium are also present in abundance, with iron being essential for haematopoiesis and oxygen transport in the blood. Potassium regulates blood pressure and hormone levels , so the red root vegetable can ensure a resistant immune system, healthy skin, a shiny coat and general well-being. It also aids digestion and stimulates the appetite. Beetroot consists of 90 % water and is therefore very low in calories , making it ideal for overweight dogs.
Green-lipped mussel
The mussel species with the green shell edge is a real secret weapon - especially for the joints of dogs. It contains substances that stimulate the formation of new cartilage and canpositively influence the consistency of the synovial fluid. This should prevent painful changes to the joints or even regenerate them.
Green-lipped mussels also contain six of the eight essential amino acids for dogs. They are also rich in unsaturated fatty acids, especially omega-3 fatty acids. The body cannot produce these itself, which is why they need to be supplied through the diet. Among other things, the fatty acids havean anti-inflammatory effect and are therefore a very natural remedy for inflammation, especially for joint problems.
Mussels also contain many bulk and trace elements that contribute to cell renewal, metabolism and bone formation. Sodium, potassium, magnesium, calcium and silicon, among others, have been identified.
Apple
The ultimate regional superfood for dogs enhances every meal. The pectins (fibre)contained bind water in the intestines and have a soothing effect on the stomach and intestinal mucosa.
Of course, the fruit is also full of valuable vitamins: Apples contain a cocktail of vitamins A, C and K as well as calcium,
phosphorus and biotin. These vitamins can provide a real immune boost. Biotin
ensures a healthy, shiny coat and strong claws and also supports the dog's metabolism .
The sweet fruit of paradise also contains flavonoids. These antioxidants help the body to fight inflammation.
Pumpkin
Yes, dogs can eat pumpkins too! They are another regional powerhouse in the food bowl and an animal strong vitamin bomb! The winter vegetable contains lots of nutrients and fibre, vitamins A, C and E, magnesium, potassium and zinc. The same also applies to pumpkin seeds and pumpkin seed oil!
Pumpkin could be described as an "all-round carefree package". The many high-quality
nutrients it contains have the following positive effects:
- Strengthens the immune system
- Stimulates digestion and metabolism
- Flushes out toxins
- Supports bladder function
- Strengthens bones and teeth
- Filling and low in calories at the same time
But be careful: not all pumpkins are suitable. Dogs are not allowed to eat ornamental pumpkins. It is also important to be careful with
home-grown pumpkins, as they may contain poisonous bitter substances (cucurbitacins)
. The easiest way to give pumpkins is in ready-made dog food.
Another good thing to know: Courgettes, cucumber and watermelon also belong to the pumpkin family and are a
valuable addition to the food bowl.
Millet
Millet definitely deserves the name superfood! No other grain has so many high-quality nutrients: millet contains an abundance of vitamins, minerals and healthy fatty acids.
- Fibre supports the entire digestive system and intestinal flora
- Fluorine ensures healthy teeth and strong bones
- Silicic acid supports skin health, strengthens connective tissue and gives the coat lustre and firmness
- The high iron content ensures that haematopoiesis runs smoothly and ensures the dog's oxygen supply
- The countless antioxidants combat "free radicals" throughout the body
- The unsaturated fatty acids are essential for healthy body function
- Millet also contains high amounts of the minerals magnesium, zinc and potassium
And one superpower makes millet particularly valuable: it is one of the few gluten-free cereals.
This makes it perfect for dogs with sensitive digestive systems or naturally gluten intolerance.
Peas
The protein bombs with the special amino acid pattern optimally promote the development of muscle and connective tissue and are an excellent alternative to animal protein. Because almost everything in a dog's body is dependent on protein: Muscles, bones, heart, coat, claws, hormones and nerves. In addition, the green pellets are low in fat and fibre, as they consist of just under 70% water. The pulses also contain a variety of vitamins and trace elements.
The green superfood contains vitamins A, B6, C and K as well as iron, magnesium, potassium and zinc. Peas also contain
folic acid, which is otherwise mainly found in animal products. Folic acid (vitamin B9)
is essential for cell division and the formation of new cells. It also plays a central role in iron and vitamin B12
metabolism. Vitamin C and zinc support the immune system and the all-rounder potassium is
necessary for nerve and muscle function. Peas are therefore true all-rounders.
Be careful with fresh peas - they can cause flatulence, but contrary to popular belief they are not poisonous for dogs.
Spinach
This green power food has become famous since the Popeye cartoon series and is associated with strength and vigour. But spinach in dog food? Does that make sense? Yes, dogs can eat spinach and benefit from it. Although spinach does not contain as much iron as originally thought, it is still a nutrient-rich vegetable. Its most important ingredients are magnesium, calcium and potassium as well as beta-carotene and folic acid.
When it comes to spinach, it is important to know that it contains relatively high levels of oxalic acid . Larger quantities can inhibit the absorption of important minerals such as calcium and magnesium. In addition, too much oxalic acid puts a strain on the kidneys. Spinach should not be included in the diet of dogs with kidney problems such as renal insufficiency or kidney stones, but also puppies.
Nevertheless, this high-quality vegetable is a valuable source of nutrients and a high-quality food supplement. If you want to be on the safe side with the dosage, you can rely on the processed quantities as in PERRO Vegi Mix .