Alice White
Many dog owners consciously avoid hard-to-digest types of grain when feeding their dogs. Millet is an exception: the grain is not only gluten-free and easily digestible, but it also contains important fiber and vitamins. We explain how millet can contribute to a species-appropriate diet for your furry friend.
Is Millet Healthy For Dogs?
Dogs need carbohydrates and fiber for a balanced diet. Millet meets these requirements and also provides the dog with countless important nutrients.
The so-called husk grain is a real superfood: no other grain contains so many vital vitamins, minerals, and healthy fatty acids.
These nutrients make millet a superfood for dogs:
- Iron is important for the dog’s blood formation and oxygen supply. Iron has an iron content about three times higher than that of wheat.
- Silicic acid or silicon strengthens connective tissue, skin, and fur.
- Vitamin C is essential for the dog’s immune defense and wellbeing.
- The high proportion of antioxidants protects the body cells from harmful environmental influences.
- The mineral fluorine strengthens teeth and bones.
- Unsaturated fatty acids are important for healthy body function.
- Millet contains high amounts of the minerals magnesium, zinc, and potassium
- Dietary fiber contributes to healthy digestion and supports intestinal flora.
- The gluten-free cereal is easily digestible and also suitable for dogs with sensitive food.
Which Dogs is Millet Suitable For?
Millet is one of the few grains that do not contain gluten. Therefore, millet varieties are even suitable for dogs with sensitive food and for four-legged friends who suffer from gluten intolerance. The high tolerance also makes millet a digestible alternative for other diseases. In the case of diseases of the pancreas (pancreatitis), gluten-free food is recommended for dogs, which can be supplemented with millet for an optimal supply of nutrients. Certain varieties, above all brown millet, are also considered to reduce inflammation in diseases such as osteoarthritis.
How Do You Feed the Dog Millet?
Millet tastes good to most dogs and can therefore be used in a variety of ways – whether freshly prepared as an ingredient in a barf menu or ready-to-use in dry or wet food for your furry friend.
Some commercially available dog foods use millet as a digestible alternative to other types of grain.
Millet flakes are best if you want to prepare complementary food for your dog yourself. Let the flakes soak in sufficient water for at least half an hour or cook the millet according to the instructions on the packet. Then mix a small amount into the dog food. Always test for tolerance with a small amount. Allergies or intolerances are rare with millet but should be ruled out before the grain is regularly included in the menu.
