Dogs respond very well to natural remedies. In recent years, there’s been growing awareness that canines can benefit from some of the same herbs that help their human companions.

A number of companies now make herbal supplements just for dogs. These are packaged in a lower dose than products packaged for humans. Also, there’s usually clear instructions on how much to give, according to weight. Not all natural remedies are good for pets. So I like the assurance of knowing a certain product is made just for dogs. This rules out the guesswork, about which substances are toxic to our beloved furry friends.

However, bear in mind that I’m not an animal healthcare expert. I’m simply passing along information on natural remedies for dogs, from the perspective of a dog Mom with a 16-year-old Cocker spaniel. We’ve used a number of herbs, essential oils and homeopathic remedies to maintain his health ever since we adopted him from a shelter, when he was 3.

 

Giving Herbs to Dogs

 

All people are different. All dogs are different. They respond differently to various remedies. That’s why it’s so important to work closely with your vet. Actually, your vet should always have the final say on whether it’s okay to give your dog a particular herb. Also, you’ll need your vet to tell you when your dog should stop taking it. Herbal remedies are not meant to be taken indefinitely. Never ever give herbs to a pregnant dog.

 

Ashwagandha Supplements for Dogs

 

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Still, the dog natural supplement industry is very new. There aren’t many companies selling ashwagandha for dogs. But I’m confident this is going to change in the near future. (Actually, since this article was written I’m seeing more brands selling ashwagandha supplements for dogs.

Ashwagandha is one of the most popular remedies in Indian Ayurvedic medicine, which is just beginning to be used on animals in the West. Actually, I was able to find just a couple of ashwagandha dog products.

One I won’t recommend because the supplement contained some other ingredients I didn’t think were healthy, such as autolyzed yeast extract. This additive may contain MSG. There’s no good reason to give anything containing MSG to your dog, as it’s been linked to a number of human health problems.

 

Natural Herbal Remedies for Dogs

 

Ashwagandha has been used for centuries in Indian Ayurvedic medicine as a health tonic. Ashwagandha root powder is typically given to help restore good health to someone who’s debilitated and to improve the immune response. It’s considered a good remedy for someone who’s undergone a period of stress, which has left them feeling fatigued. It’s often given when energy or vitality is flagging.

 

Ashwandha Herbal Remedy for Dogs

 

Herbalists believe ashwagandha, which has been used in India for thousands of years, can help reduce chronic inflammation. Many alternative healers believe this is the root cause of disease, including cancer and heart disease. Excess inflammation is seen in arthritic conditions as well. Unfortunately, big dogs often suffer from painful, swollen joints.

It’s known that with humans, ashwagandha is believed to have wide ranging effects on the body. It’s also often recommended as a mental balm, to ease anxiety. Consequently, herbalists classify it as an “adaptogen.” This means it’s a good remedy for mitigating the effects of stress, whether it’s physical or emotional.

 

Ashwagandha for Pets

 

From what I can gather, ashwagandha supplements are typically given to elderly dogs, as senior canines tend to suffer from metabolic distress. Their internal organs do not work as efficiently as they did when they were younger, which can lead to a buildup of toxins. In Indian Ayurvedic medicine, this herb is often given to sharpen the mind and reduce senility.

If you think your dog can benefit from herbal ashwagandha supplements, please check with your vet. Hopefully, you have access to a holistic practitioner who can guide you. I always urge my readers to find a vet who is open to exploring natural remedies to keep your dog healthy.

 

Can You Give Ashwagandha to Your Dog?

 

Holistic vets will also steer you away from dangerous chemicals, such as the kinds found in commercial flea preparations. We use natural products on our 16-year-old dog, instead of these poisons. I attribute his relative good health, at an advanced age, largely to the fact we’ve kept a lot of toxins out of his environment.

Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to find much information about giving ashwagandha supplements to your dog, except for the fact that some holistic vets do recommend this herb. I wanted to interview one for this post, but he didn’t return my call.

I’m not a licensed animal health practitioner, so I can’t give medical advice. But I can read labels. This brand of ashwagandha for dogs doesn’t contain some of the questionable ingredients I noticed in the other product, so it’s clearly the better choice. It does contain some fillers, but no autolyzed yeast extract. This supplement is sold by Pureformulas. This large online health food store has more than 40,000 differents kinds of healthy items at incredible prices.

Ashwagandha For Dogs

Ashwagandha for Cats

 

There’s even less information available about giving ashwagandha to cats, which metabolize things differently. So consider this article written only for dogs. As with other herbal remedies, do not give to pregnant females.