Can dogs eat sunflower seeds?
Quick verdict
In moderation
Recommended amount
A small number of shelled, unsalted seeds; never the shells or salted seeds.
Why
A few plain, shelled, unsalted sunflower seeds are fine for dogs occasionally.
Can dogs eat sunflower seeds, and why?
A few plain, shelled, unsalted sunflower seeds are fine for dogs occasionally.
Dogs are omnivores, so most of their diet should be a complete, balanced dog food, with treats on top. They cope with a wide range of foods, but rich, fatty or sugary ones can cause stomach upset and, over time, weight gain or pancreatitis.
How to feed sunflower seeds to dogs
- •How much: A small number of shelled, unsalted seeds; never the shells or salted seeds.
- •How often: An occasional treat, not a daily food. Treats — including fruit and veg — should make up no more than about 10% of a dog’s daily calories.
- •Young pets: Puppies have more delicate tummies and specific growth needs, so introduce any new food in tiny amounts and check with your vet.
- •Preparation: Always wash fresh produce, remove any pips, stones, seeds, peel or tough skin where relevant, and serve it plain — never with salt, sugar, oil, butter or seasoning.
More foods dogs might eat
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding dogs well:
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs eat sunflower seeds?
In moderation. A few plain, shelled, unsalted sunflower seeds are fine for dogs occasionally.
How much sunflower seeds can a dog have?
A small number of shelled, unsalted seeds; never the shells or salted seeds.
Can dogs eat sunflower seeds every day?
It’s best as an occasional treat rather than a daily food. Treats — including fruit and veg — should make up no more than about 10% of a dog’s daily calories.
Can puppies eat sunflower seeds?
Puppies have more delicate tummies and specific growth needs, so introduce any new food in tiny amounts and check with your vet.
Check sunflower seeds for another pet