Ezekiel bread has grown in popularity for the numerous benefits it could offer. It is packed with lots of nutrients that aid the body function properly, but is it good for dogs?
Since our pooch’s body system is different from ours, what could be beneficial to us may not be all that beneficial to them. This article explores everything you need to know about dogs and Ezekiel bread, including the benefits and amounts you could feed them.
What is Ezekiel bread?
Ezekiel bread is a nutrient-dense bread made with varieties of legumes and whole grains that have begun to germinate. In contrast to white bread, ezekiel bread helps the body absorb more vitamins and minerals. It also boasts a great deal of fiber.
Ezekiel bread has no added sugar, and the process of sprouting( soaking the grains and legumes for 24 hours, draining the water, and repeating the process over 30 times; at this point, the seeds are in between being a seed and a full-grown plant) significantly adds to the nutrient composition of the grains and legumes.
Cereal grains such as millet, spelt, wheat, and barley, and legumes such as lentils and soybeans are organically grown and sprouted before being combined, processed, and baked into the product we consume.
Can dogs eat Ezekiel bread?
Dogs can eat Ezekiel bread as a treat, as the germination process of the grains and legumes will increase the levels of vitamins A, B, C, and E, and the enzyme availability is boosted anywhere between 50% and 900%. The amino acids, omega-3 fatty acids, and calcium inherent in the seeds are also released in large amounts.
This can be good news for dogs with dental disease, allergies, arthritis, cancer, kidney disease, IBD, liver disease, chronic ear infections, and pancreatitis.
However, like with most other vitamins and minerals present, the fiber content of Ezekiel bread might be too much for your dog. When fiber is too much, the dog will experience flatulence, weight loss, diarrhea, bloating, and vomiting. This is why it should be handed out as a treat, not a main diet inclusion.
Is Ezekiel bread good for dogs?
Irrespective of the difference between human and dog dietary requirements, Ezekiel Bread could still provide some benefits to our pooch:
Healthy Fats
Some versions of Ezekiel bread may contain healthy fats from ingredients like flaxseeds or olive oil. Omega-3 fatty acids, for example, are beneficial for skin and coat health in dogs.
Vitamins and minerals
If your dog tolerates whole grains, they could benefit from their bank of vitamins and minerals, which includes iron, magnesium, and B vitamins.
Iron is necessary for the proper functioning of your dog’s circulatory system, the creation of red blood cells, and more. Its absence can lead to chronic blood loss, chronic kidney disease, pale gums, and more.
Your dog’s daily iron intake is 0.5mg per kg of body weight. While feeding Ezekiel bread to your dog, you should be aware of the iron present in their quality dog food, so you don’t oversupply their iron requirements.
While magnesium is abundant in your dog’s body, supplementing through sources like Ezekiel bread could help muscles and strong bones while also improving your pooch’s heart health.
B vitamins play a significant role in metabolism, digestion, the health of your dog’s skin and coat, and even in their cognitive functions.
Fiber
In moderation, the dietary fiber found in Ezekiel bread can aid in proper digestion. The beneficial bacteria in your dog’s intestine ferment fiber into fatty acids, which aid its colon in recovering from disease and also prevent the overgrowth of nonbeneficial bacteria.
How much Ezekiel bread can dogs eat?
You should only feed your dog a slice of Ezekiel bread cut into bits. This can be an occasional treat. If you choose to give them some daily, you should reduce the ratio of their daily quality kibble or wet food intake so you will not oversupply nutrients (ensure to get the input of your vet), which would be counterproductive in the long run.
While some of the ingredients in Ezekiel bread, like whole grains and legumes, can offer nutritional benefits when fed to dogs in moderation, it’s important to consider potential sensitivities or allergies that your dog may have to specific ingredients. Monitor how they react after eating the bread.
Other foods and drinks you could give your dog
Horchata
Horchata is a drink traditional to Mexicans and has quickly become popular in the US and other parts of the world. This drink is made with rice, cinnamon, vanilla, and milk in some cases. You can make use of our dog-friendly horchata recipe that doesn’t include milk, and your dog is guaranteed premium happiness.
Pumpkin
Pumpkin is classified as a superfood for dogs as it embodies essential micronutrients and has a great deal of fiber, making it an awesome treat for your dog. Pumpkin not only soothes the dog’s stomach, it also eliminates excess water from their digestive tract.
Broccoli
Broccoli is great for dogs as it contains vitamins A, C, K, potassium, and fiber, which play an important role in your dog’s system. Broccoli also supplies calcium, which is essential for your pooch’s bone density. Also, broccoli contains antioxidants.
Can Dogs Have Ezekiel Bread? Final Thoughts
Dogs can safely have Ezekiel bread. When compared to other breads, Ezekiel bread boasts more vitamins and minerals that are essential for your dog’s bodily functions.
However, like with every other food, you should feed your dog Ezekiel bread in moderation as a treat. If your dog has any underlying disease or allergies, ensure to consult with your vet before you give your pet some of this bread.
