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10 Herbs That Every Dog Needs

Samantha Schuelke • August 27, 2024

Herbs have been used for centuries to support health and wellness in humans, and they can offer similar benefits for our canine companions. Incorporating herbs into your dog’s diet can provide a natural boost to their overall well-being, supporting everything from digestion to immune health. Here’s a look at the top 10 herbs you can safely and effectively add to your dog’s diet.


1. Turmeric

Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant herb. The active compound, curcumin, is known to help reduce inflammation, support joint health, and improve heart and liver function. It’s especially beneficial for older dogs or those suffering from arthritis. You can add a small amount of turmeric powder to your dog’s food, or make a turmeric paste mixed with black pepper and coconut oil for better absorption.


2. Ginger

Ginger is excellent for supporting digestion and reducing nausea. It can be particularly helpful for dogs that suffer from motion sickness or gastrointestinal issues. Ginger also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a good choice for dogs with arthritis. Freshly grated ginger or a small amount of ginger powder can be sprinkled on your dog’s food.


3. Parsley

Parsley is not just a garnish; it’s a nutritional powerhouse for dogs. Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, parsley helps freshen breath, supports kidney function, and has diuretic properties that can aid in detoxification. Finely chopped fresh parsley can be added to your dog’s meals for a nutritional boost.


4. Dandelion

Dandelion leaves are packed with vitamins A, C, K, and D, as well as minerals like calcium and potassium. This herb supports liver health, digestion, and acts as a diuretic to help flush out toxins. You can add fresh dandelion greens to your dog’s food or brew a dandelion tea to pour over their kibble.


5. Milk Thistle

Milk thistle is renowned for its liver-protective properties. It contains silymarin, a compound that helps regenerate liver cells and detoxify the liver from harmful substances. This is especially useful for dogs on medications or those exposed to toxins. Milk thistle can be given in capsule form or as a powder sprinkled on food.


6. Oregano

Oregano is a natural antibiotic and antifungal herb, making it great for supporting immune health and combating infections. It’s also rich in antioxidants, which help protect against cellular damage. Fresh oregano leaves can be chopped and added to your dog’s food, or you can use a small amount of dried oregano.


7. Basil

Basil offers anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant benefits. It’s also known to reduce anxiety in dogs and support overall heart health. Fresh basil leaves can be mixed into your dog’s meals to help enhance their diet and promote a sense of calm.


8. Chamomile

Chamomile is famous for its calming properties and is great for dogs with anxiety or digestive issues. It can also help soothe irritated skin when used topically. A small amount of chamomile tea added to your dog’s water or food can work wonders for their nerves and stomach.


9. Rosemary

Rosemary is an excellent herb for boosting memory and supporting cognitive function in aging dogs. It’s also a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage and improves circulation. You can add fresh rosemary leaves to your dog’s food or use a diluted rosemary tea as a rinse for skin irritations. Rosemary should not be fed to dogs prone to seizures.


10. Thyme

Thyme is a potent antimicrobial and antifungal herb, making it useful for fighting infections and supporting respiratory health. It’s also rich in vitamins C and A, which boost the immune system. A small amount of fresh or dried thyme can be sprinkled over your dog’s meals.


How to Safely Add Herbs to Your Dog’s Diet

While herbs can offer fantastic health benefits, it’s important to introduce them gradually and in moderation. Always start with small amounts and observe how your dog reacts. Some herbs may not be suitable for dogs with certain health conditions, so it’s best to consult with a veterinarian or a holistic pet nutritionist before making significant changes to your dog’s diet.


How to Prepare Herbs for Your Dog

To make an herbal decoction, start by simmering dried herbs in water for 20-30 minutes to extract their beneficial compounds. Use about one tablespoon of dried herbs per cup of water. Once simmered, strain the liquid and let it cool slightly. You can then pour this nutrient-rich decoction over your dog’s kibble or use it to gently warm raw food.  If you are cooking your food, you may add the herbs to the slow cooker. I recommend adding turmeric paste as a topper at feeding time.



Conclusion

Incorporating herbs into your dog’s diet is a simple and natural way to boost their health and longevity. From supporting digestion to enhancing immune function, these herbs can make a significant difference in your dog’s overall well-being. Start with these top 10 herbs and see the positive impact they can have on your furry friend’s health.

Top 10 Kibble Toppers to Extend Your Dog’s Life

By Samantha Schuelke • August 27, 2024
Enhancing your dog's diet with nutrient-rich foods can significantly improve their health and longevity. Fresh foods naturally offer superior bioavailability compared to synthetic vitamins for dogs. This means that the nutrients in whole foods are more easily absorbed and utilized by the body. In contrast, synthetic vitamins often lack the co-factors and enzymes in fresh foods, which are essential for optimal nutrient absorption. When dogs consume fresh, whole foods, they benefit from a complete nutritional profile that supports their overall health and well-being more effectively than isolated, synthetic supplements. Topping kibble with natural, whole foods provides essential nutrients, antioxidants, and other health benefits that can extend your dog's life and vitality. Here are ten of the best foods to consider: Muscle Meat Muscle meat, such as chicken, beef, or turkey, is an excellent source of high-quality protein. Protein is crucial for muscle development, repair, and overall growth. Muscle meat also contains essential amino acids vital for various bodily functions, including immune support, hormone production, and enzyme activity. Additionally, it is rich in taurine, an amino acid important for heart health and vision. Liver Liver is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, B vitamins, iron, and copper. It supports the body's detoxification processes, promoting overall health. The B vitamins in liver aid in energy production and support brain function. It's important to not serve liver daily to avoid vitamin A toxicity. Sardines Sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), which support heart health, reduce inflammation, and improve skin and coat condition. Sardines also provide vitamin D. They provide essential minerals for bone health and offer high-quality, easily digestible protein. Choose canned sardines in water with no added salt and avoid those packed in oil or with added flavors. Fish Oil Fish oil reduces inflammation, benefiting dogs with arthritis or other inflammatory conditions. The DHA in fish oil supports cognitive function and brain health, while regular supplementation results in a shinier coat and healthier skin. Adding fish oil supplements to your dog's food ensures they receive the recommended dosage based on their weight. Broccoli Broccoli is rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, which combat oxidative stress and support the immune system. It provides dietary fiber, aiding digestion and maintaining a healthy gut, and contains compounds supporting liver detoxification. Steaming or lightly cooking broccoli makes it easier to digest. Blueberries Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which protect against cellular damage. They provide vitamins C and K, as well as fiber and their antioxidants support cognitive function and delay brain aging. Fresh or frozen blueberries make a tasty, low-calorie treat or topper for your dog’s kibble. Bone Broth Bone broth is rich in collagen, glucosamine, and chondroitin, supporting joint health and reducing arthritis symptoms. It promotes a healthy gut lining and aids digestion while keeping your dog hydrated, especially if they are not drinking enough water. Ensures it is free of onions, which are harmful to dogs. Mushrooms (Shiitake, Reishi, Cordyceps, Chaga, Turkey Tail, Lions Mane) Medicinal mushrooms like reishi and turkey tail have immune-boosting properties, and some, like turkey tail, contain compounds that have shown anti-cancer effects. Mushrooms support liver health, reduce inflammation, and improve energy levels. Cooking mushrooms breaks down the cell walls, enhancing digestibility, and they should be served in small amounts as safe varieties for dogs. Eggs Eggs provide all essential amino acids, making them an excellent source of complete protein. They are rich in vitamins A, D, E, and B vitamins, as well as minerals like iron and selenium. The fatty acids in eggs promote a healthy coat and skin. Serving cooked eggs (boiled, scrambled, or poached) or raw is beneficial. Remove the membrane of the egg from the shell for added joint support. . Green-Lipped Mussels Green-lipped mussels are a natural source of glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids, supporting joint health and reducing inflammation. They contain unique omega-3 fatty acids (ETA) with potent anti-inflammatory effects and are rich in vitamins and minerals that support overall health and vitality. Using powdered supplements or freeze-dried green-lipped mussels as a topper for kibble is an effective way to incorporate them into your dog’s diet. Conclusion Enhancing your dog’s kibble with these nutrient-rich foods can significantly improve their health, vitality, and longevity. Each of these foods offers unique benefits, from supporting joint health and reducing inflammation to boosting the immune system and promoting a shiny coat. By incorporating muscle meat, liver, sardines, fish oil, broccoli, blueberries, bone broth, mushrooms, eggs, and green-lipped mussels into your dog’s diet, you can ensure they receive a well-rounded and nutritious diet.

Bone Broth for Dogs: A Nutrient-Rich Elixir with Powerful Ingredients

By Samantha Schuelke • July 31, 2024
Bone broth has been a staple in human diets for centuries, revered for its rich flavor and numerous health benefits. This nutrient-dense elixir is just as beneficial for our canine companions. Making bone broth at home allows you to control the ingredients and ensure it's packed with powerful, health-boosting components. Let's dive into why bone broth is excellent for dogs and how adding ingredients like mushrooms, garlic, ginger, and apple cider vinegar can enhance its benefits. Why Bone Broth is Beneficial for Dogs Bone broth is more than just a tasty treat for dogs. It’s a nutritional powerhouse loaded with collagen, glucosamine, and amino acids that support joint health, digestion, and overall well-being. Here are some key benefits: Joint Health: The collagen and gelatin in bone broth help maintain healthy joints and connective tissues. Digestive Health: Bone broth is gentle on the stomach and can help soothe digestive issues. Hydration: It's an excellent way to keep your dog hydrated, especially if they are picky about drinking water. Powerful Ingredients to Enhance Bone Broth 1. Mushrooms Mushrooms, particularly shiitake and reishi varieties, are known for their immune-boosting properties. They contain polysaccharides that enhance the immune system and antioxidants that combat free radicals. Benefits: Boosts immune function Rich in antioxidants Supports overall health 2. Garlic Garlic, in small amounts, can be beneficial for dogs. It has natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, and it can help repel pests like fleas and ticks. However, it's crucial to use garlic sparingly as large amounts can be harmful to dogs. Benefits: Natural anti-inflammatory Antimicrobial properties Helps repel pests 3. Ginger Ginger is excellent for digestion and can help reduce nausea and inflammation. It also has antioxidant properties that support overall health. Benefits: Aids in digestion Reduces nausea and inflammation Rich in antioxidants 4. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) Apple cider vinegar is a crucial ingredient in bone broth because it helps pull nutrients from the bones, including calcium, magnesium, and potassium. ACV also supports a healthy digestive system and has antibacterial properties. Benefits: Extracts nutrients from bones Supports digestive health Antibacterial properties Bone Broth Recipe for Dogs Here’s a simple recipe to make a nourishing bone broth for your furry friend: Ingredients: 2-3 pounds of raw bones (chicken, beef, or turkey) 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 1 cup shiitake or reishi mushrooms, sliced 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated 12 cups of water Instructions: Prepare the Bones: Place the raw bones in a large pot or slow cooker. Add ACV and Water: Pour the apple cider vinegar over the bones and let it sit for 30 minutes. This helps to pull the minerals and nutrients from the bones. Add Vegetables and Herbs: Add the sliced mushrooms, minced garlic, grated ginger, and water to the pot. Cook: If using a slow cooker, set it to low and cook for 24 hours. If using a stovetop pot, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 12-24 hours. The longer it cooks, the more nutrients will be extracted from the bones. Strain: Once the broth is ready, strain out the bones and vegetables, leaving only the liquid. Allow the broth to cool completely. Store: Store the broth in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Serving Bone Broth to Your Dog You can serve bone broth to your dog in a variety of ways: As a Meal Topper: Pour it over your dog’s regular food to enhance the flavor and nutritional value. As a Hydrating Treat: Serve it chilled or frozen as a refreshing treat, especially on hot days. For Digestive Support: Offer a small amount of warm broth to help soothe an upset stomach. Conclusion Bone broth is a fantastic addition to your dog’s diet, offering numerous health benefits from improved joint health to better digestion. By adding ingredients like mushrooms, garlic, ginger, and apple cider vinegar, you can boost the nutritional value even further. This homemade recipe ensures that your dog gets a delicious and nutrient-packed treat that supports their overall well-being.
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