Ascophyllum Nodosum for Dogs: The Helpful Seaweed

What is Ascophyllum Nodosum?

Ascophyllum Nodosum is a seaweed that thrives in the cold waters of Europe, Canada and the United States of America. Growing along shorelines, it has long, leathery-tough fronds with small balloon shaped air bladders along the leaves. The leaves are typically olive-green colour.

While Ascophyllum Nodosum is commonly harvested to produce alginates for use in biomedicine and for use in fertilisers, the benefits of this underwater leafy green also extend to humans and our canine companions.

Benefits of Ascophyllum Nodosum for dogs’ teeth

The superpower of Ascophyllum Nodosum for dogs’ teeth is that it can help to reduce the build-up of plaque and tartar in their mouth and also reduce bad dog breath. With up to 80 per cent of dogs having some form of dog dental disease by the time they’re three years old, it’s never been more important to take good care of your dog’s oral health.

How does Ascophyllum Nodosum work?

When your pet ingests Ascophyllum Nodosum, the active ingredient fucoidan is absorbed into their gastrointestinal tract. Once in the bloodstream, it reaches their salivary glands near their mouth and concentrates in the saliva. As the saliva is released into the mouth, the fucoidans actively prevent bacteria, plaque and tarter from forming on the teeth. It also inhibits the sulphur-producing bacteria found on the back of the tongue that cause bad dog breath.

Is Ascophyllum Nodosum seaweed safe for dogs?

Yes, Ascophyllum Nodosum is safe for dogs. However, this ingredient should be used with caution as it contains iodine. Excessive iodine in a dog’s system can lead to hypothyroidism, so if you’re giving you pet a supplement containing Ascophyllum Nodosum, firstly consult your vet and do not exceed the recommended dosage.

How to give Ascophyllum Nodosum to your dog

Ascophyllum Nodosum for dogs can be purchased as a supplement for dogs, usually in powder form. As tempting as a free snack might be, seaweed from the beach is not a substitute for Ascophyllum Nodosum – this can be contaminated with runoff form stormwater drains or rubbish in the water and it not safe for consumption.

ZamiPet Dental Sticks for dogs with Ascophyllum Nodosum

For a safe and effective way to incorporate Ascophyllum Nodosum into your pet’s oral care routine, consider ZamiPet Dental Sticks for dogs. ZamiPet Dental Sticks support overall oral health for dogs with added health benefits. The four-leaf clover shape and texture provide gentle abrasion to clean the teeth while the unique ZamiDental formula helps reduce plaque, tartar and bad breath, specially formulated with:

• Natural Seaweed (Ascophyllum nodosum): A species of kelp which inhibits bacterial growth, restricting plaque deposits on the teeth and the bacteria that cause bad breath
• Sodium Tripolyphosphate: Helps prevent plaque from forming into tartar. Plaque is a soft, sticky film that builds up on teeth and under the gums, which is easier to remove through using daily oral hygiene including dental sticks. Tartar is what accumulates when plaque is left on the teeth for longer than it should - it hardens and is much more difficult to remove
• Zinc Sulphate: Helps inhibit the bacteria in the mouth that can cause plaque and tartar formation. A build-up of plaque and tartar can result in smelly dog’s breath. Zinc also inhibits the bacteria on the back of a dog’s tongue that produce volatile sulphur compounds which also cause bad breath

The information in this article was checked by ZamiPet Veterinarian and General Manager Dr Andrew McKay, BVSc, University of Melbourne, 2000. Vet Registration No: V3985

Disclaimer: This information is general advice only. Before starting any treatment or supplement with your pet, please consult your vet first for the best approach to getting your pet back to their best health.