Why We Include Hawthorn Berries in Our Dog Food
Hawthorn berries have been used for centuries in traditional medicine, and now they're finding their place in modern dog nutrition too. At Poppy’s Picnic, we include a small amount of hawthorn berries in our naturally balanced FEDIAF-compliant meals for their heart-supporting, circulation-boosting, and antioxidant-rich properties.
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What Are Hawthorn Berries?
Hawthorn berries grow on shrubs in the Crataegus genus and are rich in flavonoids, oligomeric proanthocyanidins, and other plant compounds. These natural elements are known to support cardiovascular function and provide antioxidant protection.
Benefits of Hawthorn Berries for Dogs
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Supports Heart Health: Hawthorn has been traditionally used to support dogs with mild heart issues. It helps improve blood flow and oxygen use in the heart.
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Antioxidant Action: The berries are packed with polyphenols that neutralise harmful free radicals in the body, promoting cell protection and immune health.
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Circulation Boost: It can help dilate blood vessels and improve circulation, which is especially helpful for older dogs.
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Anti-Inflammatory Effects: The compounds found in hawthorn may help reduce chronic inflammation linked to conditions like arthritis.
What the Experts Say
Dr. Randy Kidd, a holistic veterinarian and author, notes: “Hawthorn is one of the safest and most effective heart tonics we have. I use it regularly in older dogs to support normal cardiac function.”
Veterinary herbalist Greg Tilford adds: “The berries are great for long-term heart health and are well-tolerated by dogs when used appropriately.”
Studies such as Walker et al. (2000) confirm hawthorn’s vasodilating and cardiotonic properties, showing promising results in animal models.
Hawthorn in Poppy’s Picnic
We include a trace amount of hawthorn berries in our:
Our approach to food is simple: real ingredients, balanced naturally. By using hawthorn berries in safe, expert-formulated amounts, we help support your dog’s heart and circulation naturally – without synthetic additives.
How Much Is Safe?
Like all botanicals, hawthorn must be used in the right amounts. We include it at a trace level, in line with guidance from the FEDIAF and holistic vets. We don’t recommend supplementing it further unless under the guidance of your vet.
Want to know more about every ingredient we include? Explore our ingredient blogs here.
