DHA BRAIN RICH FOODS FOR YOUR PUPPY/DOG
Including DHA-rich foods in your puppy's diet can be beneficial for their cognitive development. DHA, short for docosahexaenoic acid, is an omega-3 fatty acid that plays a crucial role in brain development and function. They might not be brainiac breed like an Australian Shepherd aka Aussie, but they will definitely benefit from having DHA rich foods included in their nutrition program.
Here are some of the best DHA-rich foods for your puppy or dog:
Fish: Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are excellent sources of DHA. They provide high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, including DHA, which can support brain development and cognitive function.
Fish Oil: Fish oil supplements can be added to your puppy's diet to ensure an adequate intake of DHA. Look for high-quality fish oil specifically formulated for dogs and don’t skimp on this.
Algae: Certain types of algae, such as spirulina and broken cell wall chlorella, contain DHA and can be beneficial for your puppy's brain development. These are often available in powdered or supplement form. Our pups have all liked both spirulina and chlorella from Compassion Circle in tablet form and their Green Mush products as well.
Eggs: Egg yolks are a good source of DHA. However, it's important to note that dogs should not consume raw eggs due to the risk of Salmonella. Cooked eggs, without any seasoning or additives, can be a healthy addition to your puppy's diet.
Fortified Foods: Some , but honestly very few commercial dog foods are fortified with DHA to provide essential nutrients for brain development. If you are goin to choose to feed your puppy/dog any type of processed kibble, then you need to look for high-quality super premium brands of puppy food that specifically mentions DHA content. Check out The Dog Food Advisor for super premium brands and for any Recalls of foods/treats.
These DHA-rich foods are important for cognitive brain development because DHA is a key structural component of the brain. Any mammalian brain. It helps promote the growth and maturation of neurons, supports neurotransmitter function, and enhances communication between brain cells. Adequate levels of DHA can contribute to improved learning abilities, memory retention, and overall brain health in puppies and dogs.
Always consult with your veterinarian or canine nutritionist to determine the appropriate amount of DHA and the best diet for your specific puppy or dog. They can provide tailored recommendations based on your pet's age, breed, size, and individual needs.
Personally, we like adding in a bit of Nori Seaweed and or Wild Caught Sardines to our puppy/dog’s nutrition and this is why:
Nori seaweed and wild-caught sardines can indeed be beneficial for dogs' brain health due to their DHA content.
Nori Seaweed: Nori seaweed is a type of algae commonly used in sushi rolls. While it is not as high in DHA as some other sources like fish or fish oil, it still contains moderate levels of this omega-3 fatty acid. Feeding small amounts of nori seaweed to your dog can contribute to their overall DHA intake.
Wild Caught Sardines: Sardines are an excellent source of DHA for dogs. They are small, oily fish that are often consumed whole, including their bones and skin, which are rich in essential fatty acids. Opting for wild-caught sardines ensures that your dog receives high-quality fish with minimal contaminants. It's important to note that you should remove any small bones before feeding them to your dog to avoid potential choking hazards. We like both the Wild Caught Sardines from Trader Joe’s and the Sustainably caught sardines from Crown Prince.
Both nori seaweed and wild-caught sardines can be included in your dog's diet as part of a balanced and varied approach to nutrition. They both offer additional nutrients besides DHA, such as protein and other essential minerals, which contribute to overall health and well-being, plus they are both VERY economical choices. We also like the fact that both of them are convenient and easy to take with us on short day trips or travel. Nori comes in a package of ‘sheets’ you can easily tear off and of course sardines are available in either the little pop top flat cans or in small glass jars. Our pups LOVE both Nori and sardines.
