Arrowroot is a starchy root vegetable that has long been used as a carbohydrate source, thickening agent, and digestive aid for both humans and animals. While not a staple ingredient in most dog foods, arrowroot does provide some potential benefits for canines when used appropriately.
What is Arrowroot?
Arrowroot refers to the starch obtained from the roots of various tropical plants, most commonly Maranta arundinacea. The roots contain about 23% starch, which can be extracted to produce a fine, white powder. This powder is very absorbent and mixes well with liquids, making it a useful thickening agent in cooking.
Some key facts about arrowroot:
- Grows in tropical regions like the West Indies, Australia, and Southeast Asia.
- The underground stems (rhizomes) and roots are used to extract the starch.
- Multi-purpose starch used for thickening sauces, gravies, puddings, jellies, etc.
- More easily digested than other starches like corn and wheat.
- Naturally gluten-free.
Arrowroot starch has long been used in folk medicine and as a home remedy for various ailments. Recently it has gained popularity as an ingredient in gluten-free cooking and natural dog treats.
Is Arrowroot Safe for Dogs?
Arrowroot is generally considered very safe for dogs to consume in small quantities. The FDA includes arrowroot in its list of substances that are Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS).
Like any new food, it’s a good idea to introduce arrowroot slowly and watch for any signs of an allergic reaction. Diarrhea or digestive upset are possible if too much arrowroot is consumed at once. But overall, no serious side effects have been reported.
Nutritional Value of Arrowroot for Dogs
The main component of arrowroot is starch, comprising about 80% of the root’s dry weight. This starch is highly digestible and offers a modest source of nutritional energy.
Here is the nutritional breakdown for 100g of arrowroot (about 3.5 ounces):
- Calories: 65
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Dietary fiber: 4g
- Fat: 0g
- Protein: 1g
- Calcium: 6mg
- Iron: 2mg
- Magnesium: 25mg
- Phosphorus: 98mg
- Potassium: 454mg
- Sodium: 26mg
So as you can see, arrowroot is mostly carbs and fiber with minimal fat and protein. There are also small amounts of various vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and B vitamins.
The starch content means arrowroot can provide a quick source of energy for dogs, while the fiber aids digestion. But overall, this root vegetable shouldn’t be considered a major dietary source of protein, essential fatty acids, or micronutrients.
Benefits of Arrowroot for Dogs
Here are some of the main benefits associated with feeding arrowroot to dogs:
Support Healthy Digestion
The starch in arrowroot is easily broken down by dogs’ digestive enzymes. This makes it very gentle on the stomach and ideal for dogs with sensitive digestion.
Arrowroot also contains a good amount of dietary fiber. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements, promotes gut motility, and feeds the beneficial bacteria in the colon. Adding some arrowroot to a dog’s diet can help maintain regular bowel movements and soft stools.
Some pet parents use arrowroot to soothe nausea, gas, and diarrhea in the gastrointestinal tract. It may help bind stools during bouts of diarrhea.
Nutrient Absorption
Arrowroot is sometimes given to dogs recovering from vomiting or diarrhea. The highly digestible carbohydrates in arrowroot can help restore electrolyte levels and enhance absorption of nutrients from other foods.
This can help dogs rebuild lost nutrients and energy when recovering from GI upset.
Urinary Tract Health
Research indicates arrowroot may have beneficial effects on urinary health in dogs. A 2010 study published in Bioscience, Biotechnology, and Biochemistry found arrowroot reduced urine pH and bladder inflammation in dogs with urinary stones.
Arrowroot may help acidify the urine and improve clearance of bacteria that contribute to struvite bladder stones. More research is still needed, but arrowroot shows promise for supporting urinary tract health.
Skin Health
Arrowroot starch is sometimes used topically for skin conditions in dogs. Due to its absorbent properties, arrowroot powder can draw out moisture from weeping or infected skin. This helps dry out rashes, hot spots, and areas prone to yeast overgrowth.
To use, simply mix some arrowroot powder with water to form a paste. Apply to the affected skin area as needed. Let dry, then gently rinse.
Coat Health
Some dog owners report improvements in coat condition after supplementing their pet’s diet with arrowroot. The starch content may enhance skin and coat hydration.
The trace nutrients like magnesium, zinc, and B vitamins in arrowroot also support skin and coat health. These nutrients contribute to oil production, skin renewal, and hair growth.
Weight Management
As a low-fat, high-fiber carbohydrate, arrowroot can be a healthy choice for overweight dogs. The fiber content helps dogs feel full, while the calories from starch provide lasting energy.
Replacing some of an obese dog’s usual carbs (like corn or wheat) with lower-calorie arrowroot may facilitate weight loss. Always pair arrowroot with increased exercise and reduced portions for best results.
How to Feed Arrowroot to Dogs
Arrowroot can be incorporated into a dog’s diet in several ways:
Mix with Food
For dogs that readily eat arrowroot, you can sprinkle some powder onto their regular kibble or canned food. Start with around 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon per meal and monitor stool quality.
Mix the powder in well so it sticks to the food. The arrowroot will absorb some of the meat juices or gravy from the food, creating a sauce.
Add to Homemade Food
When preparing homemade cooked meals for your dog, arrowroot starch can help bind ingredients together. It creates a nicer consistency for licking up.
Try adding 1-2 teaspoons of arrowroot starch per pound of food. Mix it into the wet ingredients before cooking.
Bake into Treats
Arrowroot works great as a binding agent in homemade dog biscuits and treats. Substitute a portion of the flour in treat recipes with arrowroot starch.
Use about 1/4 to 1/2 cup arrowroot per 3-4 cups of flour. This helps hold the treats together and makes them crispy when baked.
Thicken Gravy or Broth
For dogs that need extra hydration, arrowroot can be used to create quick gravies or broths.
Simply whisk 1-2 tablespoons arrowroot powder into 1 cup warm water or low-sodium broth. Bring to a simmer until thickened. Let cool before serving.
DIY Anti-Itch Powder
Make a soothing powder for itchy dog skin with:
– 1 part arrowroot powder
– 1 part baking soda
– 1 part oatmeal
Mix together and apply to affected areas as needed. Rinse once dry.
How Much Arrowroot Can Dogs Have?
There is no official recommended dosage for arrowroot in dogs. But based on anecdotal reports, these serving guidelines seem safe:
For a large dog (50+ lbs):
– 1-3 teaspoons per day
For a small dog (<50 lbs): - 1/2 - 2 teaspoons per day Introduce arrowroot slowly and watch for any digestive upset. Daily amounts can be split between multiple meals. Avoid excessive intake, as too much arrowroot could lead to loose stools or mineral deficiencies over time. It should be fed as a supplement, not a dietary staple.
Signs of Too Much Arrowroot
Feeding arrowroot in moderation is unlikely to cause harm. But some signs that your dog may be getting too much include:
– Loose stools or diarrhea
– Flatulence, bloating, vomiting
– Dehydration
– Muscle weakness, tremors
– Mineral deficiency symptoms
If you observe any of these arrowroot side effects, discontinue use and contact your veterinarian. In some cases, mineral supplements may be recommended to counteract excessive arrowroot intake.
Can Puppies Eat Arrowroot?
Arrowroot is generally safe for puppies over 12 weeks old. The easily digestible carbohydrates can provide puppies with energy for growth and activity.
But arrowroot should only be fed occasionally in small amounts. Large doses or long-term use could potentially lead to nutrient deficiencies in growing puppies.
Check with your veterinarian before supplementing arrowroot in a puppy’s diet. Follow package guidelines for any commercial puppy foods containing arrowroot.
Is Arrowroot Safe for Pregnant Dogs?
There are no studies examining arrowroot specifically for pregnant dogs. But small amounts are unlikely to cause harm.
Pregnant and nursing dogs have higher nutritional needs. While the carbs in arrowroot may provide extra energy, they could displace other more vital nutrients.
For gestating dogs, it’s best to stick with a high-quality commercial dog food formulated for pregnancy and lactation. Only supplement additional ingredients with your veterinarian’s guidance.
Can Dogs Eat Arrowroot Powder?
Yes, the powdered starch form of arrowroot is safe and convenient for dogs to eat. Arrowroot powder can simply be measured out and mixed into food.
Make sure any arrowroot powder products are 100% pure with no added salt, sugars, chemicals, or other ingredients. Organic arrowroot starch powder is ideal.
Avoid giving dogs arrowroot cookies, biscuits, or medicinal tinctures made for human consumption. These may contain excessive arrowroot, flavorings, or seasonings that dogs shouldn’t ingest.
Can Dogs Eat Arrowroot Vegetable?
The arrowroot vegetable itself (the raw tuber) is not toxic to dogs. However, it’s unlikely to provide much nutritional benefit.
The starchy tubers are hard to digest unless thoroughly cooked and properly processed into starch powder. Eating raw arrowroot may just lead to indigestion.
It’s better to feed dogs arrowroot in powdered supplement form rather than the whole vegetable.
Is Arrowroot Better Than Cornstarch for Dogs?
Both arrowroot and cornstarch are safe, natural sources of digestible starch for dogs. But arrowroot has a few advantages:
– Higher fiber content – Arrowroot contains about twice the fiber of cornstarch, which benefits digestion.
– More potassium – Arrowroot provides more minerals like potassium that are important for dogs.
– Less processing – Cornstarch undergoes more extensive processing that may diminish nutrients.
– Non-GMO – Arrowroot is not genetically modified, which some pet parents prefer.
Either starch can be used safely for dogs in moderation. But arrowroot may be the healthier choice overall.
Conclusion
Arrowroot is a starchy tuber that offers a variety of benefits for dogs when supplemented in small amounts. The digestible carbohydrates provide energy, while the fiber aids digestion. Arrowroot may also support urinary health, nutrient absorption, skin health, coat condition, and weight maintenance in dogs.
When introduced slowly and fed appropriately, arrowroot is considered very safe for dogs. Make sure to monitor your dog’s stool and watch for any digestive issues. Arrowroot can be mixed into food, used in treats, or thickened into gravies. Follow suggested serving sizes to avoid adverse effects from excessive consumption.
While not a complete source of nutrition, incorporating some arrowroot into a balanced diet can be a healthy supplement for many dogs. Talk to your vet to see if arrowroot may be helpful for your dog’s unique nutritional needs.