There’s been a lot of talk in recent years about turmeric and how beneficial it can be for us humans and even our dogs. But is there anything behind this chatter? Is there anything to these touted benefits? Have you heard about the turmeric benefits for dogs? Today let’s dig in and discover if there’s anything of factual benefit in turmeric for dogs.
Budget Tip:
Turmeric isn’t expensive and could provide good relief for your dog. There seems to be some evidence to support it. However, it’s something you should discuss with your vet though before pursuing it. You may want to do it at your next scheduled visit.
First, what is turmeric anyhow?
If you’re a fan of curry food, then you have tasted this golden spice. Turmeric is a spice with a golden hue. It has a tendency to stain. If you’ve tried your hand at cooking something with this spice, you most likely learned this very quickly.
Turmeric comes from the root of Curcuma longa. It contains a chemical called curcumin. It is actually curcumin that is said to have healing components.
Is turmeric safe for dogs?
Yes, turmeric for dogs appears to be safe as long as it is given in small doses or given as it is directed by your veterinarian.
NOTE: Turmeric is considered a warming spice. This means if your dog tends to be warm, you may not want to explore using turmeric. How do you know if your dog is warm or not? Does your dog seek cool areas in your home? If so, then your dog is warm? Or does your dog like to snuggle down into a warm bed? If so, then your dog tends to be cool.
In this article, I talk about how to find a great veterinarian for you and your dog.
What are the benefits of turmeric for dogs?
You may have heard of other turmeric for dog benefits. However, for simplicity, I’ll limit this article to those that have had the most chatter or most credible discussion to this point.
1. Osteoarthritis, mobility, and pain in dogs treated with turmeric
A 2017 study, shows that over a period of time, pain and mobility for dogs suffering from osteoarthritis seem to improve with the use of turmeric. In this study, dog food was supplemented with turmeric, or more specifically curcumin. The study covered a three-month period and also included green tea extracts and collagen in the curcumin mix. The study was very promising.
One more study, at Harvard in 2019 showed that people with knee osteoarthritis could receive good relief of symptoms by using curcumin. While this isn’t a direct correlation to dogs, it still is intriguing with what turmeric’s chemical might be able to provide dogs.
Finding:
There does seem to be great promise with using turmeric for treating dog osteoarthritis pain and mobility. But more study needs to be done to verify its true validity.
In this article, I talk about the benefits of dog massage at home, which include relieving pain.
2. Eye vision issues in dogs can be treated with turmeric
Using turmeric to help with dog vision may be new to you. This one is certainly interesting and it does play off the research provided in the before-mentioned osteoarthritis study for inflammation.
Specifically, a 2020 study from Texas A&M found that the use of turmeric in dogs is beneficial in decreasing the inflammation associated with uveitis, which is a painful eye disorder that leads to diminished vision.
Finding:
This could be very beneficial. But again more study should be done to verify.
3. Anti-inflammatory illness in dogs can be treated with turmeric
Another promising study from 2020 showed that the use of curcumin in dog food could provide an anti-inflammatory response over time.
Additionally, all the studies discussed thus far have stated that turmeric or curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties. Some people and pet parents have even said they replaced steroids or NSAIDS with turmeric. I suspect this depends on the level of pain and inflammation. As always, check with your veterinarian first. However, science seems to back this claim that turmeric in dogs can act as an anti-inflammatory agent.
Finding:
There appears to be more and more evidence and even anecdotal evidence that turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties for both dogs and humans. This claim has credible merit at this point.
4. Gastrointestinal disorders in dogs can be treated with turmeric
Some claim that turmeric can help reduce the inflammation and pain associated with dog gastrointestinal disorders, such as irritable bowel disease, colitis, and Crohn’s disease. While logically, it seems to fall in line with the anti-inflammatory properties, there could also be some problems with this claim. For instance, too much turmeric can cause intestinal issues, such as nausea or diarrhea.
While I could not find any studies specific to dogs, I did find a few human studies. However, they all need more research to truly be of value.
Finding:
This claim could be promising, but it needs a lot more research to see if there’s anything to it.
5. Cancer in dogs treated with turmeric
This one may have caught your eye at some point. There are some claims that turmeric, or curcumin, can aid in the treatment of dogs suffering from cancer. A recent study determined that it does appear that curcumin found in turmeric holds promise in stabilizing cancer in dogs.
There are also other supporting studies that show curcumin may help prevent or treat cancer in humans. However, these are more preliminary studies. There is still more research being done in this field.
Finding:
This benefit holds a lot of promise but needs more study to validate its potential.
Are there any side effects or precautions with turmeric?
Yes, there are a few side effects associated with turmeric. However, they seem to be mostly mitigated if directions are followed and doses are kept low. Although, with anything, it’s always best to check with your veterinarian for guidance on what is best for your dog.
Have you ever wondered about a chiropractor for your dog? In this article, I share the pros and cons of a pet chiropractor.
Possible turmeric side effects and warnings
Currently, the possible side effects or precautions with turmeric or curcumin in dogs are:
- Gastrointestinal issues, such as upset stomach, nausea, and diarrhea
- Dizziness, which is difficult to evaluate in dogs and is more from a human standpoint
- Gallbladder issues, can worsen any known gallbladder issues such as gallstones or blocked gall ducts
- Blood clotting and bruising issues, avoid if on blood thinners or if surgery is planned within 2 weeks of using turmeric
- Iron deficiency, turmeric might prevent the absorption of iron
- Hormone sensitivity in female dogs, curcumin might act like estrogen, which could cause an issue if your dog is sensitive to this hormone
- Infertility issues are possible in male dogs, it can decrease the production of testosterone and hinder sperm movement
- Pregnant or lactating dogs should use caution, not enough information is available to know if it’s safe for dog moms
- Liver damage could result from the use or too much use of turmeric in dogs, especially if the liver was already compromised prior to the introduction of turmeric
NOTE: One of the main problems with using turmeric as a supplement in dogs (or humans) is the bioavailability component. This simply means the method in which it is absorbed by the body. Currently, both dogs and humans can’t easily absorb curcumin into the body. Although, it’s been discovered that if turmeric is delivered with black pepper it’s better. But, it’s still not a great absorption method. Adding fat, such as coconut oil, can help. There is current research being done on the bioavailability of curcumin.
What’s the best way to give turmeric to my dog?
There are different ways to give turmeric if you and your veterinarian decide this is a good addition to your dog’s diet. One is a powder form. Another option is liquid. You can even make your own “Golden Paste”, which is a mix of turmeric powder, black pepper, and a fat such as coconut oil. Golden Paste, if given at a low dose to your dog can be a bit easier to digest and absorb. You can also dive into your kitchen and prepare turmeric dog treats. Or perhaps the easiest is prepared dog turmeric supplements
Do you know that something as simple as preventative dog care can save you a lot on your dog expenses? Find out how in this article.
Or you can purchase turmeric dog cookies rather inexpensively as well. For example, these soft-chew turmeric dog treats are easy on the pocket, but pack a punch
How much turmeric should I give my dog?
This will greatly depend on what you’re trying to treat, the severity of the issue, and the size of your dog. I always recommend starting anything new at a very low dose and slowly increasing it.
All the studies I’ve cited in this article have indicated, benefits take place over a period of time. Most often it seems to be about three months. But this could be longer or shorter depending on your dog.
As for a specific amount of turmeric to give your dog, I would recommend checking with your veterinarian for guidance. I’ve had animals that responded very well to all supplements and drugs introduced.
Amounts can vary
However, Henry, my dog now, is either fully affected or not phased at all. Sometimes I’ve looked at him and thought, “If I took what your doc had me give you, I’d be out for a week.” Meanwhile, he’s bouncing off the walls. This just goes to show that every dog is different. But your veterinarian will know your dog and what he or she will most likely need or tolerate best.
Do you know that just giving your dog an optimum amount of water can keep your dog’s costs in check? Find out about the details in this article.
Should I try turmeric for my dog?
Honestly, this is a question for you and your veterinarian. I supplied the research and background information. You may have friends that have used it with great success or not. You may even have used it and want to try it for your dog for whatever reason. I always think it’s best to make any decision when you’re armed with as much information as possible.
Related articles:
Summary of is turmeric the golden bone for dogs or simply a waste of treat money?
There is some great research pointing to turmeric being able to provide dogs with relief from inflammation and associated pain. It may even help with eye disorders and surprisingly in treating cancer. Although, more research is needed to truly know how much benefits dogs receive from turmeric.
But, turmeric does appear to have a few side effects to beware of, which may be controlled with the proper administration of the spice. So, is it worth exploring adding a dash of turmeric to your dog’s diet? If you’re concerned about any physical issues your dog has and think turmeric may help, talk with your veterinarian. Apparently, all the golden spice of turmeric for dogs isn’t for fools as long as you’re not a fool about giving it to your dog.
What’s your experience with turmeric? Have you ever given turmeric to your dog? Or would you rather keep your turmeric in your curry?
TOO BUSY TO READ RIGHT NOW? GET THE PDF VERSION EMAILED >> CLICK HERE
Categories Care Savings and Other Tips
