While there are some seasonings that dogs should never have, such as salt, there are others that do offer health benefits for pets. For instance, dogs can eat turmeric because it has many active ingredients, like curcumin, that are good for dogs. Turmeric is also believed to be a safe, natural anti-inflammatory for canines. In fact, turmeric is used in a variety of medications for chemotherapy or to help relieve symptoms of arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. Below, we will discuss the many reasons why turmeric is good and safe for dogs as well as details on the proper dosage of turmeric to give them.
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Health Benefits of Turmeric For Dogs
One of the main reasons why turmeric is good for dogs is because of its active ingredient curcumin. This ingredient has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-fungal, cancer prevention, and wound-healing properties. Similarly, turmeric is believed to help fight a variety of diseases, including arthritis and diabetes. These facts alone should encourage owners to give their pups healthy doses of this plant.
Anti-Inflammatory
Most diseases are initially caused by chronic inflammation, which can be treated with turmeric. Curcumin is found to be especially effective for treating dogs with arthritis, and some studies show that it actually works better than aspirin and ibuprofen. Curcumin is a natural anti-inflammatory that is better for dogs than many medications.
Cancer Prevention
Although there isn’t any conclusive evidence that turmeric can treat or prevent cancer, early research trials have shown promising results. It is believed that turmeric is a natural treatment that can kill cancer cells and keep new ones from developing and growing. According to the American Cancer Society, “Curcumin interferes with cancer development, growth, and spread.”
Natural Remedy for Gastrointestinal Problems
Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric can also be used to treat inflammatory bowel disease and other gastrointestinal problems in dogs. It’s known to foster better gut health, and research shows that it’s effective in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome.
Giving Turmeric To Your Dog
When giving your dog any food for the first time, it’s best to give them small amounts. Even though turmeric is healthy for most dogs, there is a chance that some might be allergic to it. When you first introduce turmeric to your dog, watch for signs of allergic reactions, including upset stomach, vomiting, and diarrhea. Once you know that your dogs like the food and that they’re not experiencing any negative side effects, you can start giving it to them on a more regular basis.
When it comes to turmeric, the following dosage is recommended, one to three times daily:
- 8-10 pounds dogs – 1/16 to 1/8 tsp
- 10-20 pounds dogs – 1/8 to 1/4 tsp
- 20-50 pounds dogs – 1/4 to 1 tsp
- 50-100 pounds dogs – 1-2 tsp
- 100+ pounds dogs – 2 tsp
Please keep in mind that how much turmeric you give your dog also depends on age, breed, genetics, and lifestyle so only use these doses as a general guideline.
Yes, Dogs Can Eat Turmeric
Feeding your dogs turmeric is a natural way to help keep them healthy. In fact, you probably already have some in your kitchen which makes it easy to add to some to your dog’s food to help prevent and treat a variety of diseases. Start stirring some turmeric into your dog’s food today, and it’ll help keep them healthy and happy!
