The Power of Spirulina: A Nutritional Marvel for Your Dog

Spirulina is a microscopic planktonic blue-green algae that grows naturally in warm, natural, alkaline lakes. It has gained widespread recognition for its exceptional nutritional profile and has even been deemed a superfood. Adding this gift from nature to your pet’s bowl offers so many incredible benefits that it can be a game changer to your pet's health.

Spirulina is an excellent source of digestible protein and rich in phycocyanins—a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound. It also boasts a wide array of vitamins and minerals, making it a powerful source of goodness.

Now let’s explore and discuss the myriad of benefits spirulina offers:

1. High in protein: With over 60% of the dry content coming from protein, spirulina stands out as a protein powerhouse. It is the richest natural source of digestible protein, offering all the essential amino acids our dog’s bodies need for optimal functioning.
2. Contains various Vitamins and Minerals: Beyond protein, spirulina generously provides a diverse range of vitamins and minerals, including fat-soluble vitamin A, which has antioxidant properties and is critical for immune health; vitamin E, a potent antioxidant; and vitamin K, essential for bone development and blood clotting. Spirulina also offers an easy delivery of B-complex vitamins necessary for cell metabolism, brain health, and energy production. Minerals like iron, manganese, zinc, potassium, selenium, and calcium can also be found in spirulina, offering further benefits to the proper functioning of your dog’s body.
3. High in Antioxidants: Antioxidants are abundant in spirulina and play a crucial role in neutralizing free radicals in the body. Free radicals, if left unchecked, can lead to cellular damage and contribute to chronic disease. Antioxidants from nutrient-rich foods like spirulina defend against this damage, promoting overall health.
4. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Spirulina contains anti-inflammatory compounds like phycocyanin and β-carotene, further contributing to its health benefits. Chronic, systemic inflammation is associated with various diseases, and the ability of spirulina to help mitigate inflammation helps support overall wellness.¹
5. Enhanced Immune System: The immune system is crucial for defense against infections, viruses and disease. The nutrient-rich composition of spirulina supports the body’s immune functions, which may help ward off illness.
6. Gut Microbiome: Spirulina enhances the gut microbiome by increasing the stability of gut microbiota. This, in turn, positively influences digestion and nutrient absorption, promoting overall gut health. The gut microbiome refers to the diverse community of microorganisms in the intestines.²

How to Give Spirulina to Your Dog

Most dogs find spirulina extremely palatable, so adding it into their routine should come easily. Spirulina is available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and our new Epic Chew™ longer-lasting supplements.

Dosage: 1/8 teaspoon per 10 lbs. of dog weight is recommended.

Spirulina can be an excellent addition to your dog’s diet. With its high protein content, impressive nutrient profile, and numerous health benefits, it's no wonder why spirulina is known as a superfood. Give spirulina a try and see the difference it can make in your furry friend’s overall health and wellness.

The points of view expressed above are those of our clinical pet nutritionist and supported by science, her education and experience. However, we recognize there may be different points of view or opinions on some aspect or even the premise of this article. Our goal at Bow Wow Labs is to provide the best, clearest, and most helpful information possible to help keep your dog happy, healthy and safe.

This article is for informational purposes only. It is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional medical or veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should never be relied upon or perceived as specific medical or veterinary advice.

1. Deng, R., & Chow, T. J. (2010). Hypolipidemic, antioxidant, and antiinflammatory activities of microalgae Spirulina. Cardiovascular therapeutics, 28(4), e33–e45. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1755-5922.2010.00200.x
2. Satyaraj, E., Reynolds, A., Engler, R., Labuda, J., & Sun, P. (2021). Supplementation of Diets With SpirulinaInfluences Immune and Gut Function in Dogs. Frontiers in nutrition, 8, 667072. https://doi.org/10.3389/fnut.2021.667072
3. Stunda-Zujeva A, Berele M, Lece A, Šķesters A. Comparison of antioxidant activity in various spirulina-containing products and factors affecting it. Sci Rep. 2023 Mar 20;13(1):4529. doi: 10.1038/s41598-023-31732-3. PMID: 36941370; PMCID: PMC10027845.
4. https://naturalmedicines-therapeuticresearch.com.us1.proxy.openathens.net/databases/food,-herbs-supplements/professional.aspx?productid=923