Turmeric is the spice that makes curries yellow. Many people use it as a medicine. Now, people are discovering that turmeric for dogs benefits may be possible too.
In our Brooklyn pet spa, we ask our clients to approach their dog’s health and well-being. One of our clients asked us about the benefits of Turmeric in dogs. We asked our in-house vet the same question. Our vet said that turmeric has an active compound, curcumin. Curcumin has a range of benefits for dog’s health.
Can dogs have Turmeric?
Yes, dogs can have Tumeric. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that keeps dogs healthy. Curcumin has benefits from healing wounds to sharpening the brain. Tumeric has many benefits that we can’t discuss in a line.
Lets discover top 9 Surprising Health Benefits & Uses of Turmeric in Dogs Diet.
1. Turmeric, the Natural Anti-Inflammatory
Sometimes, dogs get hurt or sick. Their bodies get swollen to help them heal. But, if a dog stays swollen for too long, it isn’t good for them. It can cause diseases like arthritis, allergies, and even cancer.
The best part of turmeric is called curcumin. Curcumin stops the body from making things that cause swelling. This might help dogs feel better.
- Arthritis Relief: Dogs can get a disease called arthritis. It makes their joints hurt, and it’s hard for them to move. Studies show that turmeric for dogs’ benefits might include helping with the pain and stiffness of arthritis. This means dogs can move around better and feel happier. Turmeric could be a natural way to help with pain instead of regular medicine.
- Allergy Aid: Dogs can get allergies, just like people! Allergies can make them itchy and their skin red. Turmeric can help because it fights swelling. This might make dogs less itchy and help their skin feel better.
2. Turmeric for Dog Tummy
Dogs need to have healthy tummies so they feel good! Turmeric doesn’t just help with swelling. It seems to help dogs digest their food in a few different ways:
- Improves Dog Digestion: Turmeric helps the body make something called bile. Bile helps break down fats from food. This means dogs can get more good stuff from their food, and their tummies work better.
- Soothes Digestive Upset: Sometimes dogs get upset tummies. They might have diarrhea or feel gassy. Adding turmeric powder for dogs might offer relief. Turmeric helps because it can calm down a tummy that hurts.
- Potential for IBD Support: Dogs can get a bad tummy disease called IBD. Their insides get swollen, and it hurts them. Scientists are still studying this, but turmeric might help with IBD because it fights swelling.
3. Turmeric’s Antioxidant Boost
Dogs are always around things called free radicals. These can hurt the tiny parts of their bodies and make them sick. Turmeric has unique things called antioxidants that fight off free radicals.
- Cellular Protection: Turmeric has unique things called antioxidants (curcumin is one of them). These antioxidants protect the tiny parts inside a dog’s body. This helps them stay healthy and fight off diseases.
- Aging Support: When dogs get older, the tiny parts of their bodies get hurt more easily. The antioxidants in turmeric for dogs help slow this process. This allows older dogs to stay healthier and even live longer!
- Disease Prevention: Scientists think the unique things in turmeric might help keep dogs from getting some harmful diseases. These include cancer and heart problems.
4. Turmeric for Brain Health
Scientists are still learning, but it seems like turmeric might be good for dog brains! This could be especially helpful for older dogs.
- Cognitive Decline Support: Turmeric has special powers that fight swelling and protect the body. Scientists think these powers also help protect dog brains as they get older. This helps them stay intelligent and alert for longer. Additionally, turmeric for dogs benefits include reduced inflammation that can contribute to cognitive issues.
- Potential for Alzheimer’s Prevention: Scientists have mainly studied turmeric with people. They think it protects people’s brains from a disease called Alzheimer’s. Scientists are studying more to see if it works the same way for dogs.
- Overall Brain Boost: Turmeric fights swelling and protects against things that hurt the body. This is good for the brains of dogs! It helps dogs have better memories, learn more efficiently, and even feel less worried.
5. Turmeric Promotes Wound Healing
Turmeric doesn’t just work on the inside! It also helps heal cuts and scrapes on the outside. Turmeric fights germs and reduces swelling, which helps wounds heal faster.
- Antimicrobial Action: Turmeric helps fight bacteria. It helps keep little cuts and scrapes from getting infected.
- Faster Healing: If your dog has any wound, prepare a turmeric powder and apply it to the wound of dogs. Turmeric in dogs helps calm down swelling and allows the body to make new skin. This helps cuts and scrapes heal faster.
- Soothing Skin Irritations: Turmeric helps calm down red, itchy skin. This makes dogs feel better if they have little rashes or bug bites.
6. Turmeric’s Potential Role in Cancer Prevention
Turmeric can’t cure cancer or stop a dog from ever getting it. However, research shows it protects dogs a little bit against this bad disease.
- Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Power: Turmeric has antioxidants. These antioxidants fight with germs that can cause DNA damage and contribute to cancer development. Additionally, by reducing swelling, turmeric for dogs benefits to lower the risk of certain cancers.
- Lab Studies: In laboratory studies, it is evident that curcumin has the ability to inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Sometimes, it can kill those cells which cause cancer in dogs.
7. Turmeric for a Healthy Heart
Research shows turmeric in dogs has a healthy heart benefit as well.
- Improves Cholesterol Levels: Some studies show that turmeric helps lower “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and raise “good” cholesterol (HDL) levels. This improves the health of dogs’ hearts.
- Reduces Blood Pressure: Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties manage blood pressure levels. This helps with blood pressure problems in dogs.
- Protection Against Heart Disease: Tumeric has the ability to fight inflammation and oxidative stress. Which indirectly reduces the risk of heart disease in dogs.
8. Turmeric and Diabetes Management
Turmeric helps to reduce diabetes issues in dogs. However, it is not the ultimate solution.
- Improved Insulin Sensitivity: Some studies suggest curcumin improves how the body uses insulin. Ultimately helping regulate blood sugar levels.
- Reduced Complications: Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help reduce the risk of complications associated with diabetes, such as heart disease and kidney problems.
- Supports Weight Loss: Turmeric results in healthy weight loss. Which indirectly affects the management of sugar levels.
9. Turmeric for Dogs Immune System
Turmeric has natural properties that offer potential benefits in strengthening a dog’s immune system.
- Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Action: Turmeric’s potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory effects play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy immune response. They protect immune cells from damage and help regulate a balanced reaction to threats.
- Potential Antimicrobial Support: Some research results show that turmeric has antimicrobial properties, which helps the dog’s body fight off harmful pathogens.
Can dogs have turmeric powder?
As already said, if you apply turmeric paste on dog wounds, then wounds can heal faster. If you are wondering whether you can use turmeric paste as a food, yes, you can. Below is a quick guide to using turmeric for dogs.
How to Use Turmeric for Dogs
Here are some of the most common and effective ways to include turmeric in your dog’s diet:
- Golden Paste: This popular DIY recipe involves combining turmeric powder with water, healthy oil (like coconut or olive oil), and a pinch of black pepper (to enhance absorption).
- Start with small amounts (1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon for small dogs, 1/2-1 teaspoon for larger dogs) and gradually increase over time.
- Add the paste to your dog’s regular food.
- Turmeric Supplements: Look for high-quality supplements specifically formulated for dogs. Many come in convenient forms like chewables or capsules. Always follow the dosage instructions on the label.
- Turmeric-infused Treats: Many commercial dog treats incorporate turmeric as a beneficial ingredient. Opt for treats made with natural ingredients and limited additives.
- Topical Application (for wounds): In consultation with your vet, consider a turmeric paste for minor wounds and skin irritations.
- Mix a small amount of turmeric powder with water to create a paste and apply gently to the affected area.
Can dogs have Turmeric and Ginger?
Well, if you are here, it means that you have read the benefits of Turmeric. But some of you may be wondering, can dogs have Turmeric and Ginger as well? The answer to your curiosity is yes. Surprisingly, Ginger can recover from an upset stomach. Ginger also has anti-inflammatory properties, which are good for dogs. However, it is advised to use both with care. We have summarized the care points as well.
Use with Care
- Start Slowly: Begin with small amounts of turmeric and gradually increase the dosage over time. This allows your dog’s system to adjust and helps you monitor for any potential side effects.
- Choose High-Quality: Opt for organic turmeric and high-quality supplements with standardized curcumin content to ensure the best benefits.
- Consult Your Veterinarian: Always talk to your vet before introducing turmeric into your dog’s diet, especially if they have any underlying health conditions or are on medications.
Conclusion:
Turmeric brings vibrant flavor to food. It has an equally remarkable impact on dogs’ health. While turmeric certainly isn’t a miracle cure, it is a natural supplement to support a dog’s well-being. It has various benefits for dogs, such as soothing achy joints and improving digestion. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that are good for the healthier and happier life of dogs.
If you want to give this spice to your dog, then start with a small amount. Before giving turmeric to your dog, consult with your dog’s veterinarian. The veterinarian will provide personalized guidance on the correct dosage according to your dog’s health. If you consider the best turmeric and dog vet advice, it can be a golden addition to your dog’s wellness.
FAQs
1. What are the side effects of turmeric for dogs?
Turmeric is generally considered safe for dogs. However, turmeric can cause some side effects in certain dogs, especially at high doses. The side effects include: mild stomach upset, diarrhea, or nausea.
2. How much turmeric can I give my dog?
The ideal dosage of turmeric for dogs depends on their size and individual needs. It’s always best to start with a small amount (like 1/4 – 1/2 teaspoon for small dogs, 1/2-1 teaspoon for larger dogs) and gradually increase over time. It is better to consult with a vet for an exact dose according to your dog’s health.
3. Is turmeric a natural anti-inflammatory for dogs?
Yes! Turmeric’s primary active compound, curcumin, has potent anti-inflammatory properties. This property makes tumeric best cure for dogs with joint pain, allergies, or other inflammatory conditions.
4. Does turmeric affect dogs liver?
Turmeric is generally considered safe for a dog’s liver when used in appropriate amounts. However, it’s always a good idea to discuss the use of turmeric with your vet. Particularly, if your dog has any existing liver problems.
5. Is turmeric bad for dogs?
No, turmeric is safe for dogs when used in the right quantity. In some cases it may have side effects such as upset stomach.
