Sauerkraut is a type of finely cut fermented raw cabbage and is a popular condiment on hot dogs and reuben sandwiches. Although it’s definitely an acquired taste for many people, most dogs really seem to love it for some reason. So, you might be wondering whether sauerkraut is good for dogs to eat. After all, it has an extremely strong flavor and is acidic. Strangely as it may sound, sauerkraut is not only safe for dogs to eat but is actually a very healthy treat for them. It’s rich in vitamins and is a natural probiotic that can help dogs with blockage.
Fermented vegetables have long been known to offer several health benefits and dogs can eat fermented foods. Just make sure that you are giving it to them in moderation (with a recommended level of 10% of dietary caloric intake from all treats in general). You should also avoid ones that are high in salt like pickles.
Health Benefits of Sauerkraut For Dogs
Sauerkraut, a fermented vegetable, is rich in probiotic properties with healthy gut bacteria that our dogs need. This bacteria can help protect your dogs against a number of digestive issues, and it can also play a role in heart health and boosting the immune system. One study even shows that eating unpasteurized sauerkraut caused cholesterol and triglyceride levels to drop while increasing levels in two antioxidants.
While not widely researched, many experts say that sauerkraut can offer the same benefits for dogs as it can for humans. Dogs that suffer from digestive problems can benefit from eating fermented vegetables.
Probiotics in these fermented foods can help dogs recover faster from certain illnesses related to the inflammation of the digestive tract and gastroenteritis faster than they could with medications alone. In addition, they can also help dogs recover from diarrhea faster. Probiotics are known to help increase immunity in puppies and make it easier for dogs to tolerate certain foods.
Sauerkraut is also rich in vitamins C and K, iron, and fiber, so small amounts can help to improve digestion and prevent bowel issues. Thanks to sauerkraut, your dogs will be able to maintain regular bowel movements and their stools will be firmer. Other foods that can help with constipation in your pup include bok choy, chickpeas, and greek yogurt.
In addition, the antioxidants found in sauerkraut help kill free radicals that damage cells, preventing a number of illnesses including certain cancers. These antioxidants can also help protect against heart disease, arthritis, and even senility while also reducing the risk of developing several diseases, lowering inflammation, and boosting the immune system.
Yes, Dogs Can Eat Sauerkraut in Moderation
Homemade sauerkraut is the best option for your dogs. Unfortunately, the ones found at your local grocery store are often very high in salt, which is not good for dogs. Like all treats, sauerkraut should be given to dogs in moderation.
If you would like to give some to your pups, we recommend that you introduce it slowly into your dogs’ diets, using a small amount and paying close attention to any negative side effects. These symptoms can include gas, stomach upset, bloating, vomiting, and diarrhea (something that often happens when you introduce new foods into their diets).