Linseed oil

The effect of linseed oil on dogs

Linseed oil has a positive effect on various aspects of dog health. For example, it can

• make the coat shinier and smoother
• protect the skin from drying out and inflammation
• strengthen the immune system and prevent allergies
• improve digestion and relieve constipation
• support the cardiovascular system and lower blood pressure
• Lubricate joints and prevent osteoarthritis

Dosage of linseed oil for dogs

Linseed oil should always be cold-pressed so that the valuable ingredients are retained. It should also be stored in a cool, dark place as it can quickly become rancid. To achieve an optimum effect, linseed oil should be added to the dog's bowl regularly. The following rule of thumb applies

1 teaspoon per 10 kg body weight per day

The oil can either be given pure or mixed into the food.

If the dog does not like the oil or has diarrhea, you can reduce the dose or try a different type of oil.

Risks of linseed oil for dogs

Linseed oil is generally well tolerated by dogs, but there are a few points that should be borne in mind:

• Linseed oil contains a lot of calories and can lead to obesity if overdosed.
• Linseed oil can inhibit blood clotting and lead to complications with blood-thinning medication.
• Linseed oil can trigger allergic reactions in some dogs or aggravate existing allergies.
  It is therefore advisable to always consult your vet before feeding linseed oil. He can determine whether the oil is suitable for the dog and how much he should be given.