Sea buckthorn

What is sea buckthorn and where does it grow?

Sea buckthorn is a deciduous shrub that belongs to the willow family and is particularly common in coastal regions. It grows in sandy areas, for example on sand dunes on the North Sea and Baltic Sea, and is therefore native to Germany. Due to its bright yellow-orange berries and the high vitamin C content of the sea buckthorn berries, the plant is also known by the nickname "Lemon of the North". The ripe fruits are harvested in the fall and either eaten pure or processed into sea buckthorn juice, sea buckthorn oil or dried sea buckthorn.

Is sea buckthorn poisonous for dogs?

No, dogs are allowed to eat sea buckthorn berries. Sea buckthorn is not poisonous to dogs and is therefore considered harmless. However, it is rare for dogs to eat wild sea buckthorn straight from the bush: The berries taste very sour on their own and are generally not to the taste of four-legged friends. Dried sea buckthorn berries or sea buckthorn oil, which are also suitable for dogs, are tastier.

Is sea buckthorn healthy for dogs?

Sea buckthorn has long since been discovered as a popular supplementary food for dogs, as the furry friends also benefit from the numerous healthy ingredients. The high vitamin C content in particular makes sea buckthorn berries a local vitamin bomb that protects against infections and strengthens the immune system, especially in the cold season. Sea buckthorn also supports the dog's circulation, metabolism and general well-being. The orange berry is also said to have an anti-inflammatory effect: sea buckthorn can have a soothing effect on inflammatory diseases of the stomach as well as cardiovascular diseases, loss of appetite or arthrosis.

These nutrients are what make sea buckthorn berries so healthy for dogs:

• The vitamin C content is higher than that of oranges and lemons. Vitamin C strengthens the dog's immune system.
• Vitamin E is important for the eyes, skin and coat.
• Beta-carotene is needed for the immune system and for healthy skin.
• The B vitamins B1, B2, B6 and B12 ensure healthy digestion, hormone production and metabolism.
• Minerals such as iron, calcium and magnesium are essential for a balanced diet.

How do you prepare sea buckthorn for dogs?

Sea buckthorn berries have a sour and sometimes bitter taste, which often puts dogs off. To increase acceptance, you can boil down fresh sea buckthorn berries instead of mixing them pure into the dog food. Alternatively, you can use dried sea buckthorn berries or sea buckthorn oil, which you can buy in organic quality from specialist shops or online. Make sure that you do not give your dog too much sea buckthorn, as this can lead to diarrhea or stomach problems. As a rule of thumb, one teaspoon of sea buckthorn oil or a handful of dried sea buckthorn berries per day is sufficient for a medium-sized dog.