What Are the Benefits of Kelp for Dogs?

Kate Barrington
by Kate Barrington
Considered to be a “superfood,” kelp is packed with vitamins, minerals and amino acids. And it’s not just for humans – here are the benefits of kelp for dogs.


If you peruse the ingredients list for your dog’s food, you may come across some strange ingredients that are not easy to identify. You may also find ingredients that you are familiar with, but didn’t realize could be used in dog food – kelp is one of those things. Let’s go over the potential benefits of kelp for dogs and the role it plays in your dog’s diet.


Related: 7 Ways To Improve Your Pooch’s Dog Kibble


Benefits of Sea Vegetables for Dogs


When it comes to healthy ingredients in dog food, you are probably familiar with the nutritional benefits of fresh fruits and vegetables. But did you know that sea vegetables are also highly nutritious?


That’s right – the slimy seaweed you see floating in the ocean is actually loaded with healthy nutrients that can be good for your dog. On average, sea vegetables contain about 25% protein and just 2% fat. They are one of the richest natural sources for amino acids, plus they are full of vitamins and minerals that can provide some amazing benefits. For example, sea vegetables are rich in iodine, a mineral that is essential for healthy thyroid function – they also contain iron which fortifies your dog’s blood and supports healthy circulation.


Related: Top 10 Surprising Superfoods for Super Pets


What is so Great About Kelp for Dogs?


Out of all the sea vegetables out there, kelp is the most nutritious for dogs. This sea vegetable contains more than 60 different vitamins, minerals, and trace elements as well as 21 amino acids. Kelp is also a complex carbohydrate and a natural source for numerous growth hormones. What kelp is most known for is its iodine content which helps to support your dog’s glandular system as well as his metabolism. Some of the other benefits associated with kelp include the following:


  • Helps to regular glandular activity in the adrenal, pituitary, and thyroid glands.
  • May reduce itching and inflammation from skin allergies, improving skin and coat condition.
  • Contains highly bio-available protein and amino acids which help to speed tissue repair.
  • Iodine content may stimulate thyroid activity to speed the metabolism and aid weight loss.
  • Improved glandular activity and healthy metabolism leads to better general health.
  • High fiber content may provide anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor and anti-rheumatic benefits.


Kelp is a highly nutritious sea vegetable that can provide a great many benefits for your dog. While you may not want to make a trip to the beach to harvest fresh kelp for your dog, you can look for a dog food and treats that contains kelp or look into a dietary supplement that comes in powdered form. If you have concerns, talk to your veterinarian about the potential benefits of kelp for your dog and for suggestions about where to get it.


As part of a healthy diet, kelp can help your dog achieve balanced nutrition and improved overall health and wellbeing. It is always important, however, to choose a product that is high in quality – don’t just choose a dog food because it contains kelp unless it is a nutritious product overall.

Kate Barrington
Kate Barrington

Kate Barrington is the loving owner of two cats (Bagel and Munchkin) and a noisy herd of guinea pigs. Having grown up with golden retrievers, Kate has a great deal of experience with dogs but labels herself a lover of all pets. Having received a Bachelor's degree in English, Kate has combined her love for pets and her passion for writing to create her own freelance writing business, specializing in the pet niche.

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