In recent years, there has been a surge in interest in natural remedies for pets, especially for dogs. Pet owners, wanting the best for their companions, often turn to herbal and alternative treatments in hopes of providing relief from allergies, arthritis, anxiety, digestive issues, and more. However, while the idea of using natural treatments is appealing, they are not always the best or safest option. In some cases, they can be ineffective, interact negatively with prescribed medications, or even worsen health conditions.
In this blog, we’ll explore the potential risks of natural remedies for dogs, including issues related to dosing, the lack of scientific studies on animals, and how some herbal treatments may exacerbate conditions rather than improve them. We’ll also provide guidance on how to critically evaluate natural treatments before giving them to your dog.

The Problem with Natural Remedies for Dogs

1. Lack of Standardised Dosing

Unlike veterinary medicines, which undergo rigorous testing and have precise dosage guidelines, natural remedies often lack clear dosing instructions. The active compounds in herbs and natural substances can vary significantly depending on the plant species, growing conditions, and preparation methods. This makes it difficult to determine a safe and effective dose for dogs of different breeds, ages, and health conditions.

For example, turmeric, commonly used as an anti-inflammatory, contains curcumin, which has poor bioavailability in dogs. Overdosing on turmeric can lead to gastrointestinal distress, while underdosing may render it ineffective. Additionally, curcumin can interfere with blood-thinning medications like warfarin, increasing the risk of excessive bleeding.

2. Limited Research and Lack of Animal-Specific Studies

Many herbal treatments used for dogs are based on anecdotal evidence or research conducted on humans. While some plant-based compounds may have benefits for people, dogs have different metabolic processes and react differently to many substances.

For instance, St. John’s Wort, commonly used as a natural antidepressant, has been studied extensively in humans but not thoroughly in dogs. It can interact with several veterinary medications, including heart medications, painkillers, and anesthetics, potentially leading to serious health complications.

3. No Scientific Regulation or Quality Control

Veterinary medicines are tested for efficacy, safety, and consistency, but the same cannot be said for many herbal supplements and natural remedies. The supplement industry is largely unregulated, meaning that products can vary in quality, purity, and potency. Some may even contain contaminants such as heavy metals, pesticides, or other harmful substances.

A 2018 study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association (JAVMA) found that some over-the-counter herbal supplements for pets contained little to no active ingredients despite their claims. Others contained undisclosed additives that could be harmful.

4. Herbal Treatments Can Make Conditions Worse

Many herbal remedies can actually worsen a dog's condition instead of improving it. Here are a few examples:

Garlic: Some pet owners use garlic as a natural flea repellent, but garlic is toxic to dogs in high doses and even low doses can cause hemolytic anemia, leading to lethargy, weakness, and even organ failure.
Licorice Root: Sometimes used for its anti-inflammatory properties, licorice root can increase blood pressure and should be avoided in dogs with heart disease.
Valerian Root: Used as a calming agent for anxiety, valerian root can cause excessive sedation and has the potential to interact with anesthesia, increasing risks if the dog needs surgery.

5. Potential for Drug Interactions

Herbal remedies can interfere with prescription medications, altering their effectiveness or causing harmful side effects. Here are some common interactions:

Herbal Remedy Potential Interaction

Milk Thistle Can affect liver enzyme function and alter how medications are metabolized

Ginseng Can interfere with insulin and diabetes medications

Ginger Increases the risk of bleeding when combined with blood-thinning medications

Chamomile Can interact with sedatives, leading to excessive drowsiness

If your dog is on any prescription medication, it’s crucial to consult with a veterinarian before introducing a natural supplement.

How to Avoid Being Fooled by Herbal Remedies

With so many natural products marketed for pets, how can you ensure you’re making the best decision for your dog? Here are some critical questions to ask before using a natural remedy:

Is there scientific research supporting its use in dogs?
- Look for peer-reviewed veterinary studies, not just anecdotal reports.
Has it been tested for safety and effectiveness in animals?
- Just because a supplement works for humans doesn’t mean it’s safe for dogs.
Are there clear dosage guidelines specific to dogs?
- If a product doesn’t provide dosing instructions, it’s a red flag.
Does the product come from a reputable source?
- Avoid brands with vague ingredient lists or exaggerated health claims.
Could it interact with my dog’s medication or medical condition?
- Always consult your vet before adding any new supplement.

Conclusion

While natural remedies can have their place in a dog’s health regimen, they are not always the best choice. The lack of standardised dosing, limited research in animals, potential drug interactions, and risk of worsening conditions make herbal treatments a tricky area for pet owners. If you are considering a natural remedy for your dog, always consult with a veterinarian to ensure it is safe and effective.

References

Wynn, S. G., & Fougère, B. J. (2007). Veterinary Herbal Medicine. Elsevier Health Sciences.
Shmalberg, J. (2017). "Nutraceuticals, Supplements, and Herbs in Canine Medicine." Journal of Small Animal Practice, 58(3), 123-131.
Dodds, W. J., & Laverdure-Dunetz, J. (2015). Canine Nutrigenomics: The New Science of Feeding Your Dog for Optimum Health. Dogwise Publishing.
Cohen, P. A. (2018). "Adulterants in Herbal Supplements." JAMA Internal Medicine, 178(5), 610-611.
JAVMA Study on Herbal Supplements for Pets (2018). Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, 253(10), 1252-1260.

By staying informed and asking the right questions, you can make the best health choices for your dog—whether that involves natural remedies, veterinary medicine, or a combination of both.

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Why Natural Isn’t Always Safer: The Truth About Herbal Treatments for Dogs