Is Turmeric Good for Dogs?

When you hear "turmeric," your first thought most likely goes to your spice cabinet or perhaps your favorite Indian cuisine. But have you ever considered turmeric as an anti-inflammatory for your dog? The "golden spice" has a longstanding history in traditional Indian, Eastern Asian, and Chinese medicine, and there has been a concerted effort in the last 25 years, with over 3,000 studies, to research potential medicinal benefits for both humans and pets. In this blog post, we'll explore the benefits of turmeric and how it can improve your four legged bestie's overall health and wellbeing. 

What is Turmeric and where does it come from?

• Turmeric is an perennial plant, Curcuma longa, which belongs to the ginger family, which is why you may mistaken the root for ginger at the grocery store
• Turmeric is native to the Indian subcontinent as well as Southeast Asia and has a long history in traditional Indian, Eastern Asian and Chinese medicine 
• While turmeric is made up of hundreds of compounds, the one talked about the most is the bioactive compound curcumin

What is curcumin?

• Curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric and is responsible for giving the spice its yellowish-golden hue 
• Curcumin is a micronutrient with powerful anti-inflammatory properties and is a potent antioxidant making it a popular dietary supplement and natural remedy for a variety of health conditions
• In addition to its anti-inflammatory effects, curcumin has been shown to have potential benefits for heart health, brain function, and cancer prevention
• It is also believed to have neuroprotective properties and may help reduce the risk of developing age-related degenerative diseases

What is the best way to add turmeric to my dog's daily diet?

• Here are a few tips for adding turmeric supplements to your dog's diet:
• Talk to your veterinarian: Before adding any new supplement to your dog's diet, it's important to consult with your veterinarian to ensure it's safe and appropriate for your dog
• Choose a high-quality supplement: Look for a turmeric supplement that is specifically formulated for dogs and contains natural, high-quality ingredients.
• Follow the recommended dosage:Be sure to follow the recommended dosage instructions on the supplement label carefully, as giving your dog too much turmeric can lead to gastrointestinal upset
• Start slowly: When introducing turmeric into your pet's diet, it is best to start of slow with small doses to allow their digestive system to get used to it
• Mix with food: Most turmeric supplements for dogs come in chewable or soft chew form, which can be easily mixed in with your dog's food or given as a treat
• Be consistent: For best results, be sure to give your dog turmeric supplements consistently as part of their daily routine
• Remember, while turmeric can be beneficial for dogs, it's important to use it responsibly and under the guidance of a veterinarian
  

Are there any side effects of turmeric for dogs?

• While turmeric is generally considered safe for dogs, it's important to note that there are some potential side effects to be aware of
• For example, turmeric can cause gastrointestinal upset in some dogs, particularly if given in large doses 
• Additionally, turmeric can interact with certain medications, so it's important to talk to your veterinarian before giving your dog any new supplement
• Giving your dog too much turmeric can cause upset stomach, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and / or constipation

Is turmeric safe for all dogs?

• Turmeric has low side effects in both people and dogs; however it is not safe for all dogs - dogs with the following health conditions should avoid turmeric or seek veterinarian guidance:
• If your dog has any upcoming surgeries (due to blood thinning properties)
• If they are on blood-thinner medications
• Kidney disease
• Iron deficiency
• Gall bladder problems
• Pregnant