Vitamin K is Important For Dogs Too: 5 Foods Worth Giving Them

Did you know that vitamin K is vital not only for humans, but for dogs as well? This nutrient plays a key role in proper blood clotting, strengthens bones, and also supports the healthy functioning of the cardiovascular system.

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Vitamin K is an essential vitamin for almost all living beings. Our body, more precisely the bacteria living in our digestive system, are able to produce it, however, it does no harm if we also obtain it through our diet. The same applies to our dog! The following five foods are not only rich in vitamin K, but can also be easily incorporated into our pet’s diet, so we can provide them with the necessary nutrient and variety on their plate at the same time.

These foods can easily be incorporated into our pets’ diet as sources of vitamin K

This is why vitamin K is important for dogs

Vitamin K belongs to the fat-soluble vitamins, meaning the body can store it in fatty tissues and use it when needed. It is indispensable for proper blood clotting, and also plays an important role in the process of calcium being built into the bones. In case of deficiency, increased bleeding tendency, bone development disorders, and even cardiovascular problems may develop.

The bacteria living in our furry companions’ intestinal system naturally produce this beneficial vitamin, therefore supplementation is usually not necessary. Except when this bacterial flora is damaged, which may occur during prolonged antibiotic treatment. Absorption disorders may also occur. Since it is a fat-soluble vitamin, diseases affecting the digestive system (e.g. inflammatory bowel disease, bile duct obstruction or severe liver disease) may prevent the utilisation of the vitamin.

Here are 5 sources of vitamin K that dogs can also consume

1.) Broccoli

Broccoli can be safely consumed by dogs in very small amounts. It is best to offer it only occasionally. Its advantages include high fibre and vitamin C content, as well as low fat content. It can be given raw, steamed or cooked, with the raw and steamed versions retaining the most nutrients.

It is rich in antioxidants, and its crunchy texture may also help keep teeth clean, and it can easily be given as a snack or treat. However, be careful, as broccoli florets contain isothiocyanates. These may cause mild stomach irritation in some dogs, and even severe irritation in others. Furthermore, the stem of broccoli, if given in pieces that are too large and swallowed without chewing, may cause blockage in the oesophagus. This can also be life-threatening!

The crunchy texture of broccoli may also help keep teeth clean

2.) Kale

It is considered a superfood, and in addition to vitamin K, it is also rich in calcium and selenium. Most dogs accept it both raw and cooked, and its great advantage is that even a small amount provides many nutrients, and it stores well. However, one disadvantage may occasionally arise, namely that it can easily get stuck between our furry companions’ teeth, and it may cause gas. It is better to offer it in small quantities!

3.) Beef liver

Beef liver is an excellent, protein-rich food that dogs usually love. However, proper preparation is particularly important, in order to avoid bacteria, therefore it should never be given to our furry companion without cooking. This food does not have such a high vitamin K content, but due to its strong smell, it is very popular among animals.

Cabbage is considered a superfood, most dogs accept it cooked or raw

4.) Green beans

Green beans are an excellent legume vegetable, full of the previously mentioned vitamin and manganese, and not least a low-calorie snack for our pets. It is worth cutting it into smaller pieces before giving it to the dog, so it is easier to consume, whether offered steamed or raw. If using a canned version, always check the salt content, as too much salt may cause sodium poisoning in dogs. This vegetable provides many valuable minerals, and is also rich in fibre, making it an ideal addition to a dog’s diet.

5.) Brussels sprouts

Brussels sprouts are full of nutrients and antioxidants, and are also an excellent source of choline and folate, which have beneficial effects on both humans and dogs. However, excessive consumption may cause increased gas formation, so do not overfeed your pet with it! It can also be excellently used during a diet, as it helps keep weight under control. Many dogs like it raw or cooked, halved or mashed, although in its raw form it is harder to digest.

Just like for us humans, adequate vitamin K intake is essential for our pets’ quality of life. Good quality food and the functioning of the intestinal flora usually ensure the necessary amount, however, if supplementation is justified, it can be easily incorporated into the diet with the help of the previously mentioned foods. However, like everything, this can also be harmful if overdone, so only give separate vitamin supplements to your dog on the recommendation of a veterinarian and in the prescribed dosage.

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