Local pet food producer Cotswold RAW is an expert in creating nutrient-rich, raw food meals for dogs and cats — and knows a thing or two about canine superfoods!
Here's a list of superfoods that are safe for dogs, including things you'll find in your own kitchen, according to the experts at Cotswold RAW:
What are the best superfoods for dogs?
Eggs
Eggs are an easily digestible protein that can promote good skin health and coat condition, boost metabolism and support immune function in dogs.
Blueberries
The pigments which make blueberries blue — known as anthocyanins — have excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help protect the nervous system and reduce the risk of cancer in dogs. Blueberries can also support dogs' urinary health and prevent fat cells from developing.
Turmeric
Not only great for humans thanks to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, turmeric boasts a range of health benefits for dogs, too. It's known to support liver function and digestion, help prevent cancer and improve joint condition.
Organ meat
Supercharged with high levels of taurine, essential fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins, organ meat also has some of the highest concentrations of naturally occurring vitamin D of any food source.
Although full of goodness for dogs, this meat is incredibly rich and calorific — as well as densely packed with minerals like phosphorus, iron and magnesium — so should be fed in moderation.
Bone broth
A yummy, high-protein treat for dogs, bone broth is full of nutrients, vitamins and minerals, including calcium and phosphorous for skeletal health; collagen for joint health; and glycerine and proline for a healthy digestive system.
Cotswold RAW's own bone broth can be added to food or given separately — it's particularly useful for keeping dogs hydrated, if they've been unwell.
Small oily fish
Great for pets with skin allergies, oily fish have anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe itchiness and irritation, as well as fatty acids to promote good skin and coat health.
Cotswold RAW recommends feeding small oily fish, which typically contain a lower mercury content than fish like salmon — making them safer for regular consumption.
Dandelion
A natural diuretic with anti-inflammatory properties, which makes it good for pets with allergies, dandelion is also one of the richest green vegetable sources of beta-carotene, which dogs can
convert to vitamin A.
Cold milled flaxseed
Used in all Cotswold RAW's complete meals, flaxseed is a fantastic source of omega-3, which helps to keep dogs' skin and coat healthy, and dietary fibre for good digestive health.
Nettle leaf
As well as promoting healthy skin and coat condition, kidney function and circulation, nettle leaf is a natural pain relief for conditions like arthritis and muscle ache, making it a worth-while addition to your senior dog's diet.
