In This Article

We have so many dogs that can only eat our Buffalo & Fish recipe - and for many dogs it's the only food they can eat that stops them itching long term. The secret ingredient is organic spirulina.

This blue-green powerhouse is why dogs with allergies, sensitivities, and skin issues finally get relief.

What is spirulina?

Spirulina (Arthrospira Platensis) is a free-floating filamentous cyanobacteria most commonly found in tropical and sub-tropical lakes. The filaments resemble a spiral shape - hence the name.

This blue-green microalgae is a nutritional powerhouse packed with protein (around 60% - more than meat!), anti-oxidants, and the essential fatty acid GLA. In fact, the Aztecs are documented eating spirulina for exactly this reason.

Spirulina also contains phycocyanin - the blue pigment that gives it that distinctive colour. This compound is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that does most of the heavy lifting when it comes to health benefits.

Why spirulina works for allergies

The biggest reason we love spirulina - and why we use it in our Buffalo & Fish recipe - is because it helps dogs with allergies.

Here's the simple version of how it works:

Spirulina exhibits anti-allergy properties by stopping the release of histamine from mast cells. Less histamine = less allergic reaction.

Even better, spirulina enhances IgA production - these are your dog's "first line of defence" antibodies. They catch allergens before they cause problems.

We combine spirulina with locally sourced raw honey and anti-inflammatory fish in our Buffalo & Fish recipe, and have seen incredible results reducing allergies in dogs.

When we first started making Buffalo & Fish there was good evidence that it worked, but only in humans. Since then there was a 2021 study in using spirulina in 30 dogs over 42 weeks. The study found that spirulina enhanced immune function and improved gut health responses, confirming what we are seeing with the dogs eating our food.

The research confirmed what we already know: spirulina works wonders for dogs.

5 ways spirulina can benefit your dog

Helps relieve allergies. Spirulina exhibits anti-allergy properties by stopping the release of histamine from mast cells. It also enhances IgA production - these are your dog's "first line of defence" antibodies that catch allergens before they cause problems.
Boosts immune system. The anti-oxidant and immuno-stimulating effects of spirulina help strengthen your dog's natural defences. The high levels of antioxidants protect cells from damage and support overall immune function.
Reduces inflammation. Spirulina contains GLA, an omega-6 fatty acid with powerful anti-inflammatory properties. The phycocyanin compound also acts as a natural anti-inflammatory agent throughout the body.
Aids digestion. Spirulina improves the quality of gut microbiota, stimulating the "good" bacteria over the "bad" ones. It's also easily digested because it lacks a cellulose cell wall.
May have anti-cancer properties While more research is needed, some studies suggest spirulina's antioxidant compounds may help protect against cancer by fighting free radical damage.

What to buy

Spirulina is grown outside in fresh water, and then collected and dried into the powder you buy. There is a massive difference in the quality of commercial spirulina. The biggest issue is heavy metal contamination, which can be disastrous for your dogs health. For example, there are reports of cheap spirulina sourced from China containing high levels of lead, mercury and arsenic.

It’s really important to source spirulina that has been produced in strictly controlled conditions - without pollution or chemicals.

Spirulina is one of those ingredients that it really is worth sourcing a good quality product. If you are unable to find or afford high quality spirulina, don’t feed your dog a cheap alternative as it is likely to be contaminated.

It’s one of those ingredients that has to be top quality, or it’s just not worth feeding. It’s not worth the risk.

How to feed

Spirulina is such a potent food that only a tiny amount is needed to see the health benefits. A little goes a long way! Try a daily dosage of 1/8 teaspoon per 10kg of bodyweight.

To feed, mix the spirulina into your dog’s food as by itself it’s not very tasty. And like all great foods, spirulina is great for dogs and humans alike. Add some to your diet too and enjoy the amazing superfood that is spirulina!