In this article, we will answer the question, can dogs eat turmeric. You will learn if your dog can consume turmeric safely and the benefits. Let’s see if there can be any negative effects of turmeric and what signs you need to look out for too!
Turmeric is a commonly used herb for its flavor, color, and, above all, for its numerous health benefits. We see it popping up everywhere from turmeric lattes, turmeric ice cream, and even candies! The cool thing is that turmeric is excellent not only for humans but for canines as well.
It may sound a little unusual, but if you wonder, “Can dogs eat turmeric?” then the simple answer is yes, dogs can eat turmeric!
Health Benefits of Turmeric for Dogs
Turmeric has been used as an alternative medicine for thousands of years. Turmeric contains a primary bioactive compound called curcumin. Curcumin has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, wound healing, and cancer-preventing properties.
Let’s dig a little deeper and look at a few of the most significant benefits of turmeric for your dog’s health.
>>Check Out If Dogs Can Have Basil?
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Chronic inflammation is the root cause of most diseases and often acts as a silent killer. Arthritis, kidney diseases, allergies, digestive diseases, dental diseases, and even cancer all have the same cause, i.e., inflammation. Turmeric is an excellent natural remedy to treat chronic inflammation.
However, there is a difference between chronic and acute inflammation. When the dog has an acute viral or bacterial infection, the body will release white blood cells. With the release of WBCs, the healing process will start right away.
On the other hand, chronic inflammation doesn’t go away that soon. It may stay for weeks, even years. Chronic inflammation can be the cause of degenerative health problems in dogs. For example, a chronic bladder infection can cause bladder cancer.
Turmeric is among the best natural anti-inflammatory agents and often works better than anti-inflammatory drugs.
- Blood-Thinning Function
Curcumin also acts as a blood thinner. This function is essential to reduce the risk of clot formation in the blood. Blood clotting may lead to severe heart issues in a dog. Thus, the presence of curcumin can help combat this problem.
- Remedy for Gastrointestinal Problems and Bowel Diseases
Because of turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties, it also helps in treating inflammatory bowel diseases and other gastrointestinal problems.
Here again, curcumin’s fantastic medicinal properties come into effect. Curcumin induces bile production in the liver. The body uses bile to break dietary fats into soluble components and helps absorb vitamins A, D, E, and K. Thus, curcumin aids in the overall digestion process.
Active dogs consume at least 20% of their total fat intake. On the other hand, underweight, pregnant, or nursing dogs need more fat in their daily diet.
This means that a small amount of turmeric is enough for the smooth digestion process of active dogs, whereas dogs with an increased amount of fat in their diet should take more turmeric.
- Pain Relief in Arthritis
Arthritis occurs due to chronic inflammation, for which turmeric acts as an incredible natural medicine. It not only cures arthritis, but turmeric also helps relieve the acute pain of arthritis. It helps reduce the pain and stiffness in the body without causing gastrointestinal side effects.
- Prevention and Cure of Cataracts
With its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, curcumin helps with protecting and controlling cataracts in old dogs. Turmeric can be beneficial for aging and feeble dogs that cannot go through eye surgery. It is better to include turmeric in your dog’s diet to prevent the occurrence of cataracts.
- Improved Bone Strength
Curcumin protects the chondrocytes from inflammation. These cells are crucial for bone growth and strength.
Recommended Dosage of Turmeric for Dogs
Although turmeric is beneficial for dogs, it is wise to give them turmeric in a small amount and then gradually increase the dosage.
Observe your dog for any allergic reactions such as upset stomach, diarrhea, or vomiting. After your complete satisfaction, you can give your dog turmeric regularly.
The recommended dosage depends on your dog’s body weight. Here is a chart to give you an idea. But ask your veterinarian before starting:
- 1/16-1/8 teaspoon for dogs below 10 lbs.
- 1/16 to 1/8 teaspoon for 8-10 pound dogs
- 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon for dogs weighing 10–20 pounds
- 1/4 to 1 teaspoon for dogs weighing 20–50 pounds
- 1-2 teaspoons for dogs weighing 50-100 pounds
- 2 tsp for dogs weighing 100 pounds or more
Final Thoughts On Dogs Eating Turmeric
Indeed, turmeric has a great many advantages for your dog’s health, but it may not suit every dog. These are the general turmeric dosages, which may vary depending on the breed, age, genetics, and lifestyle of your dog. Moreover, turmeric is a “warm” spice. So, if your dog likes to lie down in cool spaces and always feels hot, then turmeric may not suit him as it could increase their metabolism.
Turmeric may interact with medication. So, if your dog is getting any chemotherapy treatments or on medication, consult a vet before adding turmeric to his food.
Hence, it proved that turmeric is not only a fantastic herb for humans but also our dogs. So you can now give turmeric to your dog without worrying about whether or not dogs can eat turmeric.
