Is Turmeric Good for Dogs? Weighing the Benefits & Risks
Important Points
- Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants in dogs.
- Turmeric is not well absorbed, so its use in treating disease is limited.
- There needs to be more research on Turmeric’s use in dogs.
- Consult your veterinarian before administering high doses of Turmeric to your dog.
This article will explore whether or not Turmeric is beneficial for dogs. Turmeric is a bright yellow, spicy spice that’s used in Asian cuisine. It may have some health benefits. It’s a well-known spice for humans, but pet owners wonder if their dogs can enjoy the same benefits. Let’s see!
Turmeric, the medicinal spice
Turmeric is also known scientifically as Curcuma longa. It’s a plant native to Southeast Asia. The bright yellow-orange color comes from the dried and ground rhizomes. Turmeric’s active ingredient, curcumin, is responsible for its color and health benefits. Animals have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties.
Turmeric’s healing properties are highly valued in traditional medicine. Both humans and dogs can benefit from Turmeric. Turmeric is a great addition to a dog’s food, but it must be used cautiously due to safety issues, absorption problems, and proper dosage.
What is the turmeric effect on dogs?
Turmeric has been used in Ayurvedic medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine for a long time. Many studies have examined its potential therapeutic properties due to its health benefits. Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent used for centuries in humans. However, recent research shows that Turmeric can also be beneficial to dogs.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties are well known. The active component in Turmeric, curcumin, has been proven to inhibit inflammatory pathways within the body. Inflammation is a factor in many diseases, including arthritis, allergies, and certain cancers. Turmeric’s potential as an anti-inflammatory for dogs is exciting. We need to research how to use Turmeric for dogs best.
Antioxidant activity
Curcumin has strong antioxidant properties that counter harmful free radicals. This reduces oxidative stress. Oxidative stresses are associated with chronic diseases and aging. Turmeric may improve the health of dogs by neutralizing free radicals.
Digestive Health
Turmeric is traditionally used for digestive health. It is thought to stimulate the production and absorption of fats by bile. Turmeric may have anti-inflammatory properties that can relieve inflammatory bowel diseases or gastrointestinal inflammation. There needs to be more research on this topic.
Anti-cancer effects
Curcumin may have anticancer effects, according to some studies. It works by inhibiting cancer cell growth, spreading, and reducing pain and inflammation. The majority of research on the cancer-causing properties of Turmeric has been conducted in animal models and cells, with limited clinical trials in dogs.
Other Potential Uses
Researchers have studied the impact of Turmeric on brain function, heart health, and immune system regulation. In one study, dogs were treated with essential oil derived from Turmeric before visiting tick-infested regions. The turmeric oil reduced the number of ticks attached to the skin of dogs by a significant amount. Researchers found that Turmeric had an antibacterial effect on resistant bacteria.
Challenges of poor absorption
Poor absorption is the biggest barrier to Turmeric’s widespread use. It is due to the low solubility of Turmeric in water, its rapid metabolism in the liver and its susceptibility to degradation by heat, light and pH changes. Scientists have devised several strategies to improve absorption. Scientists have developed several strategies to improve absorption.
Read More About Puppy Gain Weight
Side effects
Turmeric can be used topically or in food to make dogs safe. Turmeric in therapeutic doses is more likely to cause issues. After introducing this supplement, monitor your dog carefully. Stop using the supplement and consult your vet if any side effects occur.
Gastrointestinal upset
Turmeric in therapeutic doses can cause diarrhea, particularly when used at higher dosages. Turmeric supplements in moderate amounts are less likely than high doses to upset the stomach or intestine.
Kidney and bladder trouble
Turmeric does not cause kidney and bladder stones in dogs. Some experts are concerned, so you should be cautious if there is a risk that your dog will develop stones.
Blood Clotting Disorders
Turmeric’s blood-clotting properties may affect mice. At recommended dosages, it is unlikely that Turmeric will cause abnormal clotting in dogs. Inform your vet of any supplements that your dog takes before surgery.
Allergic reactions
Allergy reactions to Turmeric are rare, but they can occur. Stop using Turmeric immediately if you experience nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, skin rash or other symptoms. Consult your veterinarian.
How much turmeric should I give my dog?
Consult your veterinarian before you use Turmeric. Some dogs may be sensitive or have underlying conditions that make them incompatible with Turmeric. Turmeric can also interact with certain medications, so it is important to seek professional advice.
Start with a small quantity of turmeric powder and increase it over a week. If you notice changes in your dog’s stools or appetite, discontinue the turmeric supplement. Consult a vet if diarrhea lasts more than 24 or more serious symptoms appear.
Turmeric dose for dogs
The dosage can vary, but for a good start, you should aim to give your dog 300 mg (about one teaspoon) per ten pounds of weight. Do not give your dog higher doses because of the possibility of side effects. The following amounts can be given once daily with food.
| Size/Weight of Dog in Pounds | Dose of Turmeric Powder per Day* |
| Small Dog 2-10 lb. | 1/4-1teaspoons |
| Medium Dog 11-40 lb. | 1-2 1/2 teaspoons |
| Large Dog 41-70 lb. | 2 1/2-4 teaspoons |
| Extra Large Dog 71-100+ lb. | 4-6 teaspoons |
For better absorption, combine Turmeric and black pepper with foods that contain fat. To help your dog adjust to the spice, start with a small dose and increase it gradually.
An Australian vet Doug English created a recipe called ” Gold Paste”. This is a popular Internet trend. This concoction is made up of Turmeric, water and coconut oil. It has been reported to be effective in treating dogs with inflammatory conditions.
You should proceed with caution if you want to give your dog Golden Paste that contains Turmeric. The ingredients can cause side effects. Although the amount of Turmeric in the paste is low, the fats from coconut oil may cause digestive upsets in some dogs.
Turmeric supplements I recommend to clients
I suggest that my clients take a turmeric supplement specifically designed for dogs. So they don’t have to worry about their dog refusing their food because it has a strong smell. These products are also processed differently, which may allow the curcumin to be better absorbed. Consult a veterinarian and choose reputable brands to ensure quality and suitability.
These are the supplements that I have recommended to my clients. You can view these products at Amazon.com by clicking on the links.
- Curcumin Zesty Paws Bites: Includes curcumin and BioPerine to increase absorption. It comes in a chewable treat form.
- Vetriscience VetriFlex: Multi-ingredient supplement with grape seed extract, Boswellia and curcumin. Available in easy-to-administer chewable tablets.
- RxVitamins CurcuWIN: Chewable Tablet with High Absorption Properties and Devoid of Other Anti-Inflammatory Agents.
Conclusion:
Curcumin, the active component of Turmeric, has been shown to have potential health benefits in dogs. It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer qualities. Its poor absorption limits its usefulness.
Most dogs tolerate the supplement well. To avoid unwanted side effects, it is important to exercise caution. Consult your veterinarian before administering the medication, and be sure to monitor any adverse reactions in your dog.
