Can Goldendoodles Eat Sunflower Seeds?

By Jeffrey Cheek
February 4, 2023

a goldendoodle laying in the grass looking at a pile of sunflower seeds

Yes, Goldendoodle can eat sunflower seeds as long as they are natural and not salted.

Sunflower seeds are a great source of healthy fats and antioxidants, making them an excellent snack for your pup.

What are Sunflower Seeds?

Sunflower seeds are the edible seeds of the sunflower plant (Helianthus annuus). They are full of healthy fats and antioxidants, which makes them a great snack for Goldendoodles. The seeds are also high in vitamin E, selenium, zinc and magnesium.

Nutritional Table of Sunflower Seeds

Nutrient
Amount (Per 100g)
Energy
584 kcal
Protein
20.8 g
Fat
51.3 g
Carbohydrates
20.9 g
Fiber
9.3 g
Calcium
276 mg
Iron
5.9 mg
Magnesium
329 mg
Phosphorus
679 mg
Potassium
760 mg
Zinc
4.4 mg
Vitamin E
20.3 mg

Are Sunflower Seeds Safe for Goldendoodles?

Yes, sunflower seeds are safe for goldendoodles as long as they are natural and not salted. It's also important to remember that sunflower seeds have a high-fat content.

This means that they can easily cause digestive upset in dogs if eaten in large quantities.

To avoid this, make sure to only give your Goldendoodle a small amount of sunflower seeds as an occasional treat. Additionally, the shells of the sunflower seed can be a choking hazard for dogs so it's best to remove them before giving the seed to your pup.

How Much Sunflower Seeds Can You Feed to Your Goldendoodles?

Regular Goldendoodles can eat about 20-40 sunflower seeds per day, while Small Goldendoodles can eat 10-20 sunflower seeds per day.

You might think that this amount is not a lot, but sunflower seeds are high in fat. Eating too much of them can cause your dog to become overweight and unhealthy, so it is important to stick within the recommended portions.

What are some healthier alternatives to feeding Sunflower Seeds to Goldendoodles

Healthier alternatives to feeding Sunflower Seeds to Goldendoodles include raw fruits and vegetables such as apples, carrots, celery, cucumber and banana; cooked lean meats such as chicken breast or turkey; plain pasta or brown rice; cooked eggs; small pieces of cheese and yogurt; cooked sweet potatoes; homemade porridge (not instant) made from oats or other grains.

You can also supplement their diet with a commercial food product designed especially for Goldendoodles that's low-glycemic and rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals.

How do Sunflower Seeds Stack up to other types of Seeds?

Sunflower Seeds Vs Chia: Chia seeds are high in Omega-3 fatty acids, while sunflower seeds contain more vitamin E.

Sunflower Seeds vs Pumpkin Seeds: Pumpkin seeds have more fiber and minerals than sunflower seeds but less fat.

Sunflower Seeds Vs Sesame Seeds: Sesame seeds contain more calcium and iron than sunflower seeds, but they also have more fat. 

Can You Give Sunflower Seeds as a Treat to your Goldendoodle?

Yes, you can give sunflower seeds as a treat to your Goldendoodle, but make sure to only give them in moderation.

Always remove the shells before giving them to your pup, and ensure that you are giving natural, unsalted sunflower seeds. 

Precautions and Warnings of Feeding Sunflower Seeds to your Goldendoodle

  • Keep the sunflower seed shells off your Goldendoodle at all times. The hard shells can be a choking hazard, and small pieces can become lodged in their throat or digestive tract.

  • Monitor your dog for any signs of an allergic reaction after eating sunflower seeds. Symptoms of a potential reaction can include vomiting, diarrhea, coughing, sneezing and difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact your veterinarian immediately.

  • Choose only natural, unsalted sunflower seeds for feeding to your Goldendoodle as salted and roasted versions are often high in fat and calories that could contribute to weight gain or other health issues.

  • Goldendoodles who have preexisting health conditions such as pancreatitis or allergies may need to avoid sunflower seeds altogether. It is important to consult with a veterinarian in order to ensure your pup stays healthy and safe.

Conclusion

While Goldendoodles can eat sunflower seeds as an occasional treat, it is important to feed them in moderation and remove the shells before giving them to your pup. Make sure to supplement their diet with healthier alternatives such as fruits and vegetables, lean meats and whole grains. 

Jeffrey Cheek


Jeffrey Cheek is the proud owner of a funny goldendoodle named Bailey. Jeffrey loves spending time with his family and friends, and he enjoys being active outdoors. He is a successful business owner, and he takes great pride in providing for his loved ones. Bailey is always by Jeffrey's side, and the two of them make everyone around them laugh with their silly antics.

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