Benefits of Brewer’s Yeast for Dogs – Especially Puppies!
A lot of dog owners have heard of Brewer’s Yeast – usually in conjunction with fixing a common problem like fleas or a skin issue. But did you know how absolutely packed it is with nutrients?
Brewer’s Yeast has so many of the building blocks of health that your dog or puppy needs to live a vibrant life.
Nutrients in Brewer’s Yeast
Your dog gets a certain amount of critical nutrients from dogfood, but a little supplementation to that can go a long way.
Here’s what you’ll find in Brewer’s Yeast:
- Selenium
- Potassium
- Zinc
- Iron
- Chromium
- Magnesium
- Probiotics
- B vitamins: B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9
- Antioxidants
What do these Nutrients Do?
Minerals, like selenium, potassium, zinc, iron, chromium, and magnesium are vital for the health and development of bones and teeth. They also help regulate hormones, the thyroid, and heart functions. Muscle growth and the nervous system are also helped by proper mineral balance.
Probiotics aid in digestion. Some dogs can get a bit gassy on Brewer’s Yeast as a result. If your dog seems like it’s having too much gas, think about reducing the amount of Brewer’s Yeast you’re giving or check with your vet to see what the right amount for your dog’s body is.
B vitamins are essential in helping your dog’s body use the fuel it takes in through food. B vitamins are what change carbs into glucose so that the body has the energy it needs. They also help the body process and use proteins and fats. All of this is needed for muscle and nerve function as well as healthy skin and tissue.
Why Do Puppies Need Brewer’s Yeast?
As you read above, all of the nutrients in Brewer’s Yeast are critical for the development of the bones, muscles, and tissues of the body as well as organ function and a healthy nervous system.
Puppies, especially large breeds, often do not get enough of these nutrients from dog food alone.
Puppy formula dog foods do have more nutrients than regular dog food, but supplementing with Brewer’s Yeast is extra insurance that your puppy develops into a healthy dog.
Large breed puppies may absolutely need extra supplementation to avoid having joint problems and hip dysplasia later in life.
Bonus Benefits of Brewer’s Yeast
The nutrients listed above aren’t the only thing your dog will love about Brewer’s Yeast. It is also known as a great flea and tick preventative. People have been using it for centuries as an alternative to toxic insecticides and chemical flea and tick repellants.
When your dog is taking Brewer’s Yeast you can expect healthier eyes, skin, teeth, and hair. It promotes healthy liver function, joint health, and possibly more regulated blood sugar.
The B vitamins in Brewer’s Yeast may also make anxious dogs calmer.
Feeding your dog Brewer’s Yeast can be a healthy way to ensure optimal health for a lifetime. Check with your vet if your dog has bowel disease, immune deficiency, or is on medications. Brewer’s Yeast can interact with some anti-depressants.
Most dogs benefit from Brewer’s Yeast with no side effects. It’s a tasty addition to your dog’s regular diet!
Sources:
https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/brewers-yeast-dogs-understanding-benefits-and-risks
https://wagwalking.com/treatment/selenium-supplements
https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/evr_dg_mineral-the_right_sources
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