Hemp Seed Flour Dog Treats Recipe

For those of you that are good around the kitchen, make these hemp seed dog treats and provide your dog with the many benefits hemp seed can give them.

Hemp For Dogs: Should You Use It?

Is your dog missing out on a great superfood? You might be thinking, “Hemp is a variety of cannabis, I’m not giving that to my dog!” If you are, it would be too bad because hemp has many health promoting properties nearly every dog could use!

Why I Think You Should Give Your Dog Hemp

Hemp is one of our oldest and most versatile plants, dating back to the 28th century BC. Today, hemp is used in foods and even textiles, but we’re most interested in the hemp seed and the oil it produces.

Unlike fish oil, hemp seed oil contains the perfect ratio of Omega-6 (linoleum acid) to Omega-3 (alpha linolenic acid) fatty acids. These are essential fatty acids, meaning your dog can’t produce them and needs to get them in his diet. A good balance of these Omega oils is critical to your dog’s health because they work synergistically in the body.

Hemp seeds are also high in an essential Omega-6 fatty acid called gamma linolenic acid (GLA). That’s important because there’s some really good reasons to boost the GLA in your dog’s diet:

1. It Fights Cancer

Researchers at the American Cancer Society say there’s evidence that people with cancer, diabetes and skin allergies don’t make enough GLA … and these issues are incredibly common in dogs too. While GLA is considered a conditionally essential fatty acid (which means that most dogs can make enough of it, most of the time), there are many circumstances (hard exercise or stress) where dogs can’t make enough GLA and supplementing can become important.

Finally, because the GLA is perfectly balanced with Omega-3 fats, hemp seed oil will help reduce inflammation in your dog and strengthen the immune system.

2. It Reduces Joint Pain

Researchers in the Journal of Arthritis and Rheumatology found that the GLA found in hemp seeds reduced arthritis symptoms by 25% compared to the placebo at 4%. Once again, this is because the perfect balance of fatty acids helps to reduce inflammation naturally. Check out these herbs that also help with your dog’s joint pain!

3. It Improves Skin And Coat

Hemp seed has long been used in cosmetic products and soaps because the oil can penetrate the inner layers of the skin and promote healthy cellular growth.

The balanced fatty acids also play an important role in reducing the inflammation associated with common skin issues, including atopic dermatitis, pruritic skin disease and granulomas.

How Hemp Seed Oil Works

Your dog has substances in his body called prostaglandins. These are like hormones and they circulate around the body, helping to smooth muscle contractions, control inflammation, regulate the body temperature and other vital functions.

The GLA that’s abundant in hemp seed is a building block for prostaglandins. Researchers are looking at GLA supplementation today as an important component of proper hormone health and development.

A Word Of Caution!

Before you start adding hemp oil to your dog’s meals, there’s a couple of things you should first know.

Hemp seed oil is a polyunsaturated fat, which means the oil is unstable. If you cook your dog’s food, you won’t want to add hemp seed oil to the food while cooking as this can cause the oil to become rancid and cause health issues in your dog.

In addition, if your dog is eating a poultry-based diet, adding hemp seed oil may cause an imbalance in his diet because chicken is already quite high in polyunsaturated fats and linoleic acid. According to Steve Brown, author of Unlocking the Canine Ancestral Diet, flaxseed oil is a better choice for chicken-based diets.

But if your dog is eating a diet rich in beef and other ruminants, then hemp seed oil is a great way to balance the diet, alongside your dog’s regular fish or fish oil.

How Much To Give

So we’ve established that giving your dog hemp seed oil whenever you give him red meat is an excellent boost to his health. So how much should you give?

Steve Brown recommends adding a teaspoon for every 1 to 1 1/4 pounds of food.

Cannabis sativa actually means“useful hemp” in Latin. Try adding some to your dog’s diet and learn why this ancient superfood is making such a huge comeback!

Chia For Pets

When someone says “Chia”, what’s the first thing that pops into your mind? For millions, the answer is “Chia Pet!” Many probably have the “ch-ch-ch-CHIA” song rolling around in their heads right now. What many don’t know is that Chia has more uses than just “pets that grow”. Chia is incredibly nutritious and truly deserves the “superfood” label.

Chia, or Salvia Hispanica, is known today as the forgotten crop. Domesticated in 2.600 BC, chia is a flowering plant native to southern Mexico and Central America. It was cultivated by the Mayans and Aztecs and one of the main foods of their diet and was even used as trade currency. Aztec warriors and runners are said to have sustained themselves on just a tablespoon of chia seeds a day, providing them with abundant energy and endurance.

Because of the plant’s ability to increase stamina and energy over long periods, chia seeds were considered quite magical. Due to its superior nutritional value, chia became a holy seed among these ancient civilizations, used in religious ceremonies and offered to their gods.

Related to the mint plant family, there are two varieties, white chia and black chia. Chia oil is a component of many ointments due to its emollient properties. Each seed is potent enough to prevent infections, with 19-23% protein, which is gluten free, 34% oil and 25% fiber. Chia seeds offer an excellent source of B vitamins and they are loaded with important Omega-3, 6 and 9 fatty acids and antioxidants.

Omega Fatty Acids

Chia has 3 times the amount of Omega-3 fatty acids as salmon! Omega-3 is important to balance out Omega-6 fatty acids and promotes healthy:

• Cells

• Immune system

• Skin and coat

• Joints

• Brain development and maintenance

• Eye development and maintenance

• Growth

And it reduces inflammation too. Two tablespoons of chia seeds provide a 3 to 1 ratio of Omega-3 to Omega-6. fatty acids

Increasing dietary fiber can help when bowel movements are a concern. Fiber will alleviate constipation, generate regularity and help in weight loss. Dogs that suffer from impacted anal sacs will also benefit from more fiber. Chia seeds provide 34 grams of fiber per 100 grams of seeds.

Endurance, Weight Loss And Diabetes Support In One Package

Chia can absorb 10 times its own weight in water and generates a gel which can be consumed. The gel slows the conversion of carbohydrates into sugars. Stable blood sugar levels contribute to naturally high levels of energy. By doing so, chia supports normal insulin function and sensitivity, blood sugar regulation and glucose tolerance. The added benefit of slowing down digestion enables full absorption of nutrients while dogs feel satiated longer.

Due to the highly absorbent qualities of chia, fresh water should always be available.

And More

Chia contains more calcium than whole milk, more iron than raw spinach and more magnesium than broccoli. Chia is non-allergenic too and an excellent source of phosphorus, potassium, copper, iron and zinc.

Convenience

Chia stores very easily for long durations, unlike its competitor flax seed. There is no taste or scent for even the pickiest of dogs to turn their noses up at. The dosage is quite potent, with only 1 teaspoon for small dogs or 2 teaspoons for large, or 1/4 teaspoon for every 10 pounds of your dog’s body weight. Feed in seed form, soaked in water or ground; sprinkle on top or mix into food. Look for milled, organic chia seeds whenever possible.

Source:http://www.dogsnaturallymagazine.com/chia-for-pets/

3 Superfoods for Your Dog

How much happier would we all be if we could feed our dogs healthy foods that are not only delicious for our dogs to eat but can save your dog from those expensive and harmful medications?

If you are wondering...what foods you can give your dog then I am going to share some amazing health improving foods that we think every dog should love.

What is even better is that these foods are all easy to find... and also are not expensive

If your dog is already eating a healthy, whole food diet then these extra foods will be more effective and your dog already has a good start on health and disease prevention

If your dog is eating a processed diet, then these extra foods will still make him a lot healthier. I think of my dog's food as his medicine and a worthwhile investment in my dogs health

The first food we can look at is OILS

Many of us give our dogs fish oil and that's good. We know that the Omega-3 oils in fish oil control inflammation in our dogs. Examples of Inflammatory conditions our dogs suffer are allergies, joint disease, heart disease and cancer. So a healthy daily dose of fish oil has been scientifically proven to help curb the inflammation in these conditions

If you are feeding a beef based pet food, then a good idea is to supplement your dog's diet with hempseed or walnut oil say a teaspoon of oil for every pound of food

For a chicken or other poultry-based foods, you can supplement your dog's diet with a teaspoon of flaxseed or chia oil for every pound of food.

To keep your dogs diet completely balanced, rotate the oils mentioned above

Of course we cannot forget about coconut oil and I suggest you add this on a fairly regular basis. Coconut oil has amazing benefits for your dog and I have listed some of them here

Clears up skin conditions such as eczema, flea allergies, contact dermatitis, and itchy skin

Prevents and treats yeast and fungal infections, including candida

Disinfects cuts and promotes wound healing

Improves digestion and nutrient absorption

Reduces or eliminates bad breath

Contains powerful antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal agents that prevent infection and disease

Another great addition to your dogs food is kefir. This is fermented milk and contains major strains of friendly bacteria that cannot be found in yogurt.

Kefir also contains friendly yeast which in turns controls candida in your dog

In addition Kefir also contains many vitamins and mineral which aid in healing and has been shown to prevent allergies. Kefir has also been shown to reduce the risks of some cancers.

So how much Kefir should you give on a daily basis

Small size dogs or cats: 1 tsp - 1 tbsp

Medium size dogs: 1 - 2 tbsp

Large dogs: 2 -3 tbsp

Try these superfoods and you will see a difference very quickly!

http://ezinearticles.com/?3-Superfoods-for-Your-Dog&id=9323099

Are Interactive Dog Toys Right For Every Dog?

Interactive dog toys are a fun and innovative way to allow your dog to play with a challenge and sometimes keep him occupied for extended periods of time. While there are many different interactive dog toys on the market today, how do you know if your dog will respond to them or not?

There's no better way to find out than by trying them out, but first identify what your dog responds to best. Will they sit with a bone for hours on end or does it seem like they have an endless supply of energy for a game of fetch? Try to find out what make sense for your dog based on what they already love doing.

iFetch Interactive Dog Toy

So you think you know what your dog enjoys, you splurge on the seemingly perfect toy for your pup, and they're absolutely terrified of it! What do you do? Interactive dog toys that are battery-operated or robotic are sometimes frightening for dogs at first. While it may be their favorite game that the toy is designed to play with them, it could confuse or scare them if they're playing with a foreign moving object for the first time.

This may not indicate interactive dog toys aren't right for your dog. It may just take time to adjust to the toy. Spend some time playing with your dog and the toy, as your dog trusts you and may learn that the toy isn't so scary after all.

Interactive toys may also need some training time so your dog knows how to use them. Use this as the perfect opportunity for bonding and to keep your dog engaged. Once you've properly trained your pet how to use the toy, spent some time playing with it together if needed and let them play on their own to see if they respond to the toy.

Though it may take some time and patience, many interactive dog toys are meant to last a long while. They are designed to stimulate and engage your pet in a fun and innovative way, which could be beneficial in the long run for your dog's happiness.

iFetch Interactive Dog Toy

Not every dog toy is right for every dog, but it's worth trying if it means your dog won't grow bored while you're away. Some are an investment of your time and otherwise, but it may be the best investment you've made for your dog's playtime and well-being. You'll never know until you try it and find out!

http://ezinearticles.com/?Are-Interactive-Dog-Toys-Right-For-Every-Dog?&id=9304473

Why Does My Dog Follow Me Everywhere?

Why does my dog follow me everywhere? is the exasperated cry of many a pet parent! Dogs are known for being man's best friend and rely on their owners for food and shelter. They are also socially dependent on their owners and family members and have a desire to be your buddy at all times. This can make them an ideal companion and easily trained, although sometimes your furry friend may appear too attached. A pet parent needs to watch out for separation anxiety and deal with traits that are less desirable by balancing training, socialization, and healthy outlets for expression of their dog's feelings.

Dogs do have feelings and they make strong relationships with their human families. Sometimes when their loved ones ignore them, or they get busy and have less time, it can make a dog start chewing things up, howling or showing signs of anxiety. They become fearful when their owners are not there.

Normal healthy behaviors of your pet dog may include the following:

• A desire to lie at your feet all the time.

• Jumping up to follow you everywhere from the room.

• Sitting outside a bathroom or bedroom door waiting for you.

• Being at the door to greet you happily when you return.

• Wanting to go with you when you leave, but can accept if you leave them behind.

• Leaning on you and having a desire to touch you.

Signs of separation anxiety and unhealthy behaviors in dogs:

1. Anxious behavior, such as panting, and pacing or whining constantly.

2. Chewing up your furniture, door frames, or other items of value, especially that belong specifically to you.

3. Trying desperately to follow you everywhere and trying to break through doors to get to you. They are unable to handle simple things like you going to the bathroom without trying to get in with you.

4. Shaking and acting depressed. Showing a lack of desire or interest in any other family member or someone offering them attention. Displaying hostility towards people who aren't you.

5. A general feeling of anxiousness from your dog that can include going to the bathroom in places they aren't supposed to. They are expressing they are upset with you or stressed from having you leave.

6. A general sense of anxiety when you're getting ready to leave and them having behavioral outbursts right before you go or while you are gone.

"Why does my dog follow me everywhere?"

ANSWER: Dogs need their owners!

Keeping your dog happy means encouraging and teaching them to be alone for a couple hours during the day. This can include crate training, rewards, proper socialization or even medication from your vet if needed. If your dog also drastically alters in personality, it could be a sign he's sick, so please don't ignore any changes in personality or behaviors. You must talk to your vet or a behavioral trainer if you start to see signs in your dog that go beyond just being a happy, friendly people dog.

Having an attached pet dog can make an owner feel pretty good, knowing your companion always wants to be around you, follow you everywhere and is happiest at your side. You just have to make sure you have a good balance of healthy, well socialized dog vs. a dog having a neurotic case of separation anxiety, and it can be hard to tell the difference sometimes. A good rule of thumb is that your pet misses you but can be content by themselves for short to medium lengths of time, without you coming home to a completely destroyed house, or your neighbors wanting to strangle you for a dog that howled the entire time you were gone.

Reinforce desired behaviors - this includes simple things like you being able to leave and come back. A confident happy dog will not be worried you are going to abandon them, even if they wish to go with you.

Reinforce training techniques - like sit, stay, come. This helps the bond between you and your dog. Make sure they get plenty of exercise and positive attention. This should help reduce the likelihood of their attention being anything other than the most devout love for you.

So why does your dog follow you everywhere? Remember, dogs often want a job, or a purpose, and they are often quite happy to make their Master their life's purpose. Just make sure you control how this is expressed and you two should get along great!

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Which Type of Material Is Best for a Dog Food Bowl?

Some of the most common types on the market are plastic bowls, which are often popular because they are generally a budget option. They also come in a variety of different colors and sizes, so it is very easy to find something in a pinch that is suitable for your dog.

Plastic Dog Bowl

One of the downsides of plastic bowls is that they can become scratched very easily, and the scratches have a tendency to harbour bacteria. For this reason it is essential to make sure that your plastic bowls stay in good condition. However, concerns have also been raised about the safety of dog feeding bowls being made from plastic.

The reason for this is that plastic is a man made material that can leach chemicals into food and water. Although no conclusive evidence has proven this to be true in the case of dog food and water bowls, it may be something that you want to consider and investigate further.

One of the most common and safest types of material for dog feeding bowls is stainless steel. People use this material to prepare and eat food with themselves, and it is equally as safe and resistant when used for your pet.

Stainless Steel Dog Bowl

A major advantage of stainless steel bowls is that they last an incredibly long time, and that they are very scratch-resistant. There is also no risk of any chemicals leaching into food or water in this particular type of bowl.

Another natural alternative is ceramic, and there are many ceramic dog feeding bowls on the market today due to the rise in popularity of this material. Ceramic bowls can also be very stylish and sophisticated looking. This compares favorably with stainless steel bowls, which can arguably be one of the plainest options on the market today.

Ceramic Dog Bowl

Again, ceramic is a very healthy material and there is no danger of any nasty chemicals leaking into your canine friend's food or water. On the other hand, these bowls can chip easily, so make sure that you check on a regular basis that this kind of damage has not occurred.

Chips and cracks will harbour bacteria, much in the same way that scratches on plastic bowls do. Replacements therefore, might be more frequent than with stainless steel bowls. However, it can also be said that ceramic bowls also are a lot less noisy,as using stainless steel bowls can make quite a noise on a tiled floor when your dog is eating or drinking.

Lastly, consider the wooden bowl. These dog bowls are one of the most fashionable options today, and again they are a natural material that is safe for your dog. They are also very naturally tough and durable, which makes them a good long-lasting option as with stainless steel.

Of course wood has its downsides too, including the fact that wood can become damaged overtime if a lot of water is held in it or it is cleaned on a regular basis with water. Wood can become warped with moisture, therefore it is essential that the dog owner takes care of the bowl, making sure that there are no splits or cracks that have resulted from water damage.

These are just a few of the different types of dog feeding bowls on the market today. Each of these different materials has many pros and cons, which each dog owner will need to weigh up to decide which is the most suitable option for them and their canine companion.

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