Herbal Treatments for Dogs

Herbal remedies can be used to enhance a dog's health, provided they are administered in a safe and responsible way. There are many herbal treatments for dogs and they are used for a wide range of ailments. Herbal remedies can be administered as part of a dog's meal, or topically by applying the remedy to the skin. Herbal treatments often comprise a mixture of herbs, with various health-giving properties combined.

  1. Calendula

    • Derived from the pot marigold, calendula is used to improve or repair the skin. It may be administered topically to treat a wound or a skin irritation caused by an allergy. Insect bites, skin rashes and minor burns can also benefit from calendula.

    Dandelion

    • This is a common flowering plant found throughout North America and Europe. Most people with lawns will have dandelions at some point during the year. The dandelion has a reputation for numerous health benefits, mainly pertaining to the blood and liver. Dandelion is rich in potassium and is often used to treat dehydration, which causes a loss of potassium. Dandelion is also used for liver detoxification and blood purification. Dandelion is administered orally, normally mixed in with a dog's food.

    Milk Thistle

    • Related to the sunflower, milk thistle is commonly used for treating liver ailments. Milk thistle has been used for centuries by herbalists as a liver tonic, but consensus among herbalists is gradually leaning toward recommending the plant only as a treatment, rather than as a supplement. Milk thistle treatments are often derived from the plant's seed, which contains a high concentration of silymarin, which is the beneficial active ingredient. This herbal treatment is not recommended for pregnant dogs.

    Garlic

    • Crushed garlic cloves can be sprinkled on a dog's food.

      Garlic is a relative of the onion and is often used as an herbal treatment. The health benefits of garlic for humans are well known, but garlic is also good for dogs. The main benefit of garlic lies in its detoxifying effects, which promote healthy liver function, improved digestion and reduced blood pressure. Garlic can easily be included in a dog's regular meal.

    Hawthorn

    • The benefits of hawthorn include improved circulation, improved heart health, and as a treatment for high blood pressure. The berries of the hawthorn plant are considered to be the most beneficial part, but many herbalists use the leaves as well. The hawthorn is not native to the United States, but is abundant in parts of Asia, Europe and Africa.