Can dogs eat turmeric?
Yes, dogs can eat turmeric. There are a number of ways to serve turmeric to dogs and numerous benefits to be had!
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Is turmeric good for dogs?
Yes turmeric is good for dogs, in fact it has so many health benefits for our canine companions that it could be classed as a superfood!
Turmeric can help with ailments such as arthritis and digestive problems, as well as acting as a powerful antioxidant.
Let’s explore the benefits of turmeric, as well as looking at the potential risks that may come along with offering too much turmeric to your dog.
Benefits of turmeric for dogs
There are many benefits to including turmeric in your dog’s diet.
As with any new foods, always introduce them slowly into your dogs diet and monitor your dog post ingestion for any reactions.
Turmeric has been proven to:
- Help dogs with arthritis:
Turmeric has natural anti-inflammatory properties, due to a compound called curcumin. This may help to reduce inflammation within a dog’s body, and aid the symptoms of arthritis.
Arthritis is common in older dogs and is the inflammation of joints, it can cause pain and discomfort.
- Promote healthy digestion:
Bloating, gas and diarrhea can be common in dogs. Turmeric can help to support the digestive system by acting as an anti-inflammatory within the intestines.
Turmeric can also help to regulate digestion, keeping their bowel movements frequent.
- Boost the immune system:
Turmeric can help support a dog’s immune system. The immune system helps to fight disease and infection. By introducing turmeric into your dog’s diet, their bodies may respond more efficiently to infection.
- Support cognitive function:
Turmeric has been shown to improve brain function in dogs. This can be particularly beneficial for older dogs, helping with conditions such as dementia and memory loss.
- Acts as a natural antioxidant:
Turmeric may help to protect a dog’s body by preventing damage to cells. When cells become damaged, they can change and mutate, potentially causing diseases, such as cancer. Due to the antioxidant properties found within turmeric, the cells in a dog’s body may be less prone to damage.
- Maintains a healthy skin and coat:
The properties of turmeric may help to support your dogs skin and coat condition. Dogs who eat turmeric may have a shiny coat and a reduction in flaky skin.
Is turmeric bad for dogs?
No, turmeric is not bad for dogs. However, if too much turmeric is ingested by your dog, they may suffer with different symptoms, including:
- Gastro-intestinal upset:
Even though turmeric can help to support our dog’s digestive tract, too much turmeric may cause vomiting and diarrhea.
Turmeric does have a strong flavor which can sometimes make it unsuitable for dogs with sensitive stomachs.
- Medication interference:
If your dog is taking regular medication and you want to introduce turmeric into their diet, speak with your veterinary surgeon to make sure that it will not interfere with their medications.
Turmeric may stop certain medications from working.
- Allergic reaction:
Dogs can have allergic reactions to anything, whether it is environmental, food or parasitic allergies. Always introduce new foods slowly and monitor your dog for any adverse reactions.
If your dog has an allergic reaction, they may show symptoms which include:
- Vomiting
- Difficulty breathing
- Diarrhea
- Swelling around the eyes and throat
- Hypersalivation (Increased drooling)
Turmeric for dogs - how to serve it
There are a variety of ways in which dogs can be offered turmeric:
Turmeric paste for dogs
Turmeric paste can be made for dogs to eat. Turmeric powder can be added to boiling water along with coconut oil.
This can be simmered and made into a paste which can then be added to your dog’s food. Around ¼ of a teaspoon per 10 lbs of body weight is advised.
Turmeric capsules
Turmeric is available in capsules that can be given to your dog orally. These can be a good option if your dog is a fussy eater.
Turmeric capsules can be available in different strengths, so speak with your veterinary surgeon for advice before giving them to your dog.
Ground turmeric
Organic, ground turmeric can be purchased from grocery stores. ¼ of a teaspoon per 10 lbs of body weight can be mixed into your dog’s usual food.
Start with small amounts of turmeric initially, before giving the full ¼ of a teaspoon.
What is turmeric?
Turmeric comes from the root of the turmeric plant and is often used in Indian cuisine. It is a member of the ginger family and is found throughout South East Asia.
Turmeric is highly pigmented and has a bright orange color. It can often stain fabrics, teeth and even skin!
Superfoods that can be paired with turmeric
There are an array of other superfoods which could be given to your dog alongside turmeric. Given together, superfoods can make a delicious combination for your dog which is packed full of vitamins and minerals.
Watermelon
Watermelon is packed with Vitamins B and C as well as lots of potassium! This helps with heart and nerve function, as well as producing the happy hormone known as serotonin!
Ginger
Ginger can help with a variety of health conditions such as arthritis, excessive gas and vomiting as well as helping to support the circulatory system. Ginger also acts as a natural antioxidant.
Chia seeds
Chia seeds help to promote healthy digestion, support joint function and can also benefit dogs who suffer from diabetes!
Honey
By adding honey to your dog’s diet, you can help them to prevent environmental allergies as well as reducing inflammation. Honey can also act as a natural antioxidant, and support the digestive system.
Carrots
Carrots have a variety of health benefits for our dogs. Carrots support a healthy immune system as well as aiding in eye and dental health.
For more information about health boosting foods check out our guide: superfoods for dogs
Cam dogs eat turmeric - final thoughts
Turmeric offers an array of health benefits and can benefit dogs that are suffering from conditions such as arthritis or gastrointestinal issues.
Turmeric also acts as a natural antioxidant which helps to protect the cells in our dogs body from damage. Always consult your veterinary surgeon if you want to start adding turmeric to your dog’s diet.
