The Answer
In short, if you are wondering if your dog can eat sunflower seeds, the answer is yes, however, they should be shelled, and be unsalted and unspiced.
Although some people film their dogs eating whole sunflower seeds, it can be dangerous.
More Info About Sunflower Seeds For Dogs
Sunflower seeds can have many health benefits for dogs. They are known to be anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and healthy for your dog’s health. Sunflower seeds are also loaded with vitamins such as vitamin E. Vitamin E is an important vitamin in helping your dogs skin stay smooth and hydrated.
Salted & Seasoned Sunflower Seeds
If you give your dog sunflower seeds, they should be unsalted and unseasoned. Salt is not healthy for dogs, and an excess of salt can be harmful to your dog, leading to several health issues. Some common seasonings found on sunflower seeds for humans can be harmful for dogs.
Sunflower Seed Shells Are Dangerous For Dogs
Although the shell itself is not toxic for dogs, it can become splintered when chewed by your dog, and can become lodged in your dogs mouth or digestive tract. The shell is made of tough fibres that can stab, or cut your dogs mouth, throat, or stomach. If you give your dog sunflower seeds you should first remove the shell.
How Many Sunflower Seeds Can My Dog Have?
The amount of sunflower seeds that your dog can safely consume depends on a variety of factors, such as your dog’s age and size. Since sunflowers are high in calories, your dog should not be eating a large quantity at a time. Sunflower seeds should not be used as a supplement or a replacement for a dog’s regular meal. A few sunflower seeds are ok for your dog to have, but you should not be feeding them handfuls of seeds.
Sunflower Seed Nutritional Information
100g of unseasoned sunflower seeds has the following nutritional information:
Calories: 584
Fat: 51g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 9mg
Potassium: 645mg
Protein: 21g
In Conclusion
Sunflower seeds can be healthy for dogs, however your dog should not be eating a large quantity of sunflower seeds. If you give your dog some seeds, make sure they are pre-shelled, unsalted and unspiced.