everything you need to know about brewer's yeast!

Introduction

If you're a dog owner looking to provide your furry friend with optimal nutrition, you may have come across the term "Brewer's Yeast." But what exactly is Brewer's Yeast? How does it differ from regular yeast? And most importantly, what are the benefits and uses of Brewer's Yeast for dogs? In this section, we will explore these questions and more, shedding light on this popular supplement for canine health.

Understanding Brewer’s Yeast

Brewer's Yeast, scientifically known as Saccharomyces cerevisiae, is a type of fungus that is commonly used in the brewing and baking industries. It is a byproduct of the beer-making process, specifically the fermentation of malted barley. Unlike regular yeast, which is active and used for leavening bread and other baked goods, Brewer's Yeast is inactive and generally used as a nutritional supplement for humans and animals. We use Brewer's Yeast in our meals since it is one of the greatest sources of natural B vitamins and a complete protein - this is not the same as the type of yeast that may cause a yeast infection, and one does not trigger the other. Malassezia pachydermatis is nearly entirely responsible for yeast infections in dogs. This usually creates issues in the ears, skin folds on the face, armpits, and between the toes.

Nutritional Composition

Brewer's Yeast is packed with essential nutrients that can benefit dogs. It is rich in B vitamins, including B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), and B9 (folate), which are important for various bodily functions, including metabolism and energy production. Additionally, Brewer's Yeast contains high levels of protein, minerals such as selenium, zinc, and chromium, as well as fiber.

Brewer’s Yeast acts as a prebiotic for the modulation of gut microflora, nourishing the healthy bacteria in your pup’s stomach due to its β-glucan constituent, which offers it numerous benefits. Studies have shown that beta-glucan can help relieve gas, bloating, and abdominal discomfort in people with inflammatory bowel syndrome and inflammatory bowel disease when combined with inositol and digestive enzymes.

Brewer’s Yeast Benefits

Packed with essential nutrients, this natural supplement provides a range of advantages that contribute to your furry friend's overall health and well-being. In this section, we will explore some of the key benefits of incorporating Brewer's Yeast into your dog's diet.

Promotes a Healthy Coat and Skin

Brewer's Yeast is known for its positive effects on a dog's skin and coat. Rich in B vitamins, including biotin, it helps nourish and support the health of the skin, promoting a shiny coat and reducing excessive shedding. Regular supplementation with Brewer's Yeast can help combat dryness, itchiness, and flakiness, leaving your dog with healthy and lustrous fur.

Supports Digestive Health

Due to its high fiber content, Brewer's Yeast aids in maintaining a healthy digestive system in dogs. It acts as a natural prebiotic, encouraging the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. By improving the balance of the microbiome, Brewer's Yeast can enhance digestion, alleviate gastrointestinal issues such as bloating and constipation, and support overall gut health.

Boosts the Immune System & Supports Nutritional Balance

Brewer's Yeast contains various essential vitamins and minerals, including selenium and zinc, which are crucial for a strong immune system. These nutrients help bolster your dog's natural defenses, making them more resistant to infections and illnesses. By supplementing with Brewer's Yeast, you can provide an extra level of support to keep your furry companion healthy and thriving.

Enhances Energy Levels and Vitality

Another benefit of Brewer's Yeast is its ability to provide an energy boost for dogs. This supplement contains complex carbohydrates that can be easily metabolized, supplying a source of sustained energy. By including Brewer's Yeast in your dog's diet, you can help them stay active, enthusiastic, and full of vitality.

Helps with diabetes

Brewer’s Yeast contains an essential mineral called chromium, which enhances the activation of insulin receptors in the dog's body. These insulin receptors play a crucial role in facilitating the uptake of glucose, which will, in turn, help with diabetes.

Tick Repellant

You often face the challenge of tick protection, as ticks are unwelcome parasites that can transmit diseases. Brewer's Yeast helps repel ticks by preventing their bites. Ticks avoid your pup’s fur because they dislike the smell of yeast. If a tick does get lost in the fur, it usually does not bite instantly and may be easily removed. However, it's not a perfect solution, and there are limited scientific studies on natural tick defense methods.

Remember, while Brewer's Yeast provides various benefits for dogs, it is always essential to consult with the Vet.

Daily Dosage and Administration

When it comes to giving Brewer's Yeast to your dog, ensuring the right dosage and proper administration is crucial to maximize its benefits effectively. Here are some key factors to consider:

Dosage Guidelines

The recommended daily dosage of Brewer's Yeast for dogs depends on their weight. As a general guideline, it is suggested to give:

• Small dogs from 5 to 10 kg: from 1 g per day.

• Medium dogs from 11 to 20 kg: from 1.5 g per day.

• Large dogs from 21 to 40 kg: from 2 g per day.

• Very large dogs from 41 kg: from 3 g per day.

It is essential to remember that these dosage guidelines are meant to be a starting point. Every dog is unique, and factors such as breed, age, and overall health should be taken into consideration.

Administration Methods

1. Direct Consumption: One way to administer Brewer's Yeast is by mixing it directly with your dog's food. You can sprinkle the recommended dosage over their regular meals and gently mix it in. This method is usually the most convenient and commonly used for most dog owners. Or you can avoid the hassle by simply feeding your pup our new recipes: the Fancy Turkey recipe and the Yum-Yum Quail!

2. Homemade Treats: Another way to incorporate Brewer's Yeast into your dog's diet is by making homemade treats. There are various recipes available online that use Brewer's Yeast as an ingredient. Just make sure to follow the dosage guidelines and adjust the recipe accordingly.

3. Commercial Dog Products: Brewer's Yeast is also available as an ingredient in some commercial dog products, such as treats or supplements. If you opt for this method, ensure that you carefully read the labels to determine the appropriate dosage and quality of the product.

Precautions 

Since Brewer’s Yeast is a natural product with no chemical additives, there are no known risks or side effects.

However, there are a few precautions to keep in mind, depending on their breed and certain health issues such as kidney problems and sensitive stomachs.

To elaborate, dogs that suffer from kidney diseases should avoid the consumption of Brewer’s Yeast and dogs that suffer from sensitive stomachs and breeds prone to bloating can consume it, but are advised to be monitored to avoid loose stools and upset stomachs.

If you found yourself in this case, it is recommended talking to the vet and seek professional guidance.

Breeds prone to bloating:

• Great Danes

• Standard poodle

• Irish setter

• Irish wolfhound

• Akita

• German shepherd

• Weimaraner

• Saint Bernard

• Boxer

Conclusion

In conclusion, Brewer's Yeast is a valuable supplement for dog owners to consider adding to their furry friend's diet. Its unique composition, distinct from regular yeast, offers a wide range of benefits for dogs. From promoting a healthy coat to boosting immune function, Brewer's Yeast has proven to be a reliable addition to a dog's wellness routine. By providing this comprehensive guide, we hope to have shed light on the dosage and usage of Brewer's Yeast for dogs. It is important to consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate daily dosage based on your dog's specific needs and health conditions. Remember, every dog is unique, and their requirements may vary. This is why our recipes are worked closely with a veterinary nutritionist to determine the exact dosages of every ingredient for different types of pups.

Learn More About Our New Recipes Here!