🐶🌱 Spirulina – The Super Algae That Makes Your Dog Smart and Saves the Planet at the Same Time
Share
Did you know that your dog can become happier, healthier and an environmental hero – just by munching on some blue-green algae?
Let’s talk about spirulina. Yes, it sounds a bit like a cartoon character (“Princess Spirulina”), but the fact is that this microscopic algae is one of the most nutrient-dense foods on earth. And the best part? It’s as good for your dog as it is for our climate.
🦴 What is Spirulina really?
Spirulina is no ordinary lake green porridge. It is a microalgae that grows in freshwater. It has been used for thousands of years – the Aztecs in Mexico already ate spirulina from Lake Texcoco.
Today it is called a superfood . Why? Well, because it contains:
✅ 60–70% high-quality protein
✅ Lots of vitamins (B complex, E, C)
✅ Minerals such as iron, calcium and magnesium
✅ Antioxidants that protect cells
✅ Omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids
For us humans, spirulina is a nutritional bomb – and the same goes for dogs.
🐕 How does spirulina help your dog?
This is where it gets exciting. Research shows that spirulina can improve both the immune system, stomach, and skin of our four-legged friends. Let's dive into the details:
1️⃣ The immune system becomes super strong
A study from Nestlé Purina Research showed that dogs given spirulina had better responses to vaccinations and higher levels of protective immunoglobulin in the gut
In short: your dog will be better equipped against bacteria and viruses. Who wouldn't want to give their dog a little immune shield for breakfast?
2️⃣ Stomach in balance = happy dog
If your dog has a sensitive stomach, gas, or loose stools, spirulina can be a lifesaver. The algae acts as a prebiotic – it feeds the good bacteria in the gut, which in turn discourages the bad bacteria that cause stomach problems.
According to Dogs Naturally Magazine, spirulina helps fight candida, E. coli, and other uninvited guests in the gut. This means a calmer stomach, fewer farts, and better nutrient absorption.
3️⃣ Antioxidants that protect cells
Spirulina is full of phycocyanin – a blue-green pigment that is a powerful antioxidant. It protects cells from oxidative stress, which in the long run can reduce the risk of inflammation and even cancer.
Although we won't promise miracles, this is one of the most exciting areas of spirulina research.
Source: Nikolaus Nature
4️⃣ Healthy skin and beautiful fur
Dry skin? Itchy ears? Spirulina contains both fatty acids and nutrients that strengthen the skin barrier. Many dog owners report less itching and a shinier coat after a few weeks of use.
5️⃣ Easy to give
A study in the journal Animals (MDPI) shows that spirulina is highly palatable to dogs—you can mix it into their food or give it as a tablet. The dogs in the study happily ate their daily dose without any negative effects ( MDPI ).
🌍 But how does spirulina help the climate?
Here we come to another amazing part of the story. Spirulina is not only healthy – it is one of the world's most sustainable sources of protein.
🔹 Miniature Resources – Maximum Nutrition
A large-scale study in Iceland (which cultivated spirulina using geothermal energy) showed that:
🌱 Spirulina requires 99% less land area than meat
💧 98% less water
🌬️ Can be climate neutral or even negative in CO₂ emissions – every kilogram of biomass can bind carbon dioxide
🌿 Produces more protein per square meter than any other crop
Read the study: PubMed
💚 Why is it a win-win for you and your dog?
-
You give your dog extra nutrition and immune support – without strange additives.
-
You reduce your climate impact by choosing a sustainable protein source.
-
You support innovation in food production.
-
You show that even dogs can be climate heroes.
🔬 Here's how to get started
Want to try spirulina? Here are some tips:
✅ Start with small doses
✅ See how your dog reacts before increasing the amount.
✅ Combine with a balanced diet.
✅ Please consult your veterinarian if your dog has a sensitive stomach or medical problems.