Is Curcumin Good for Dogs? Benefits, Limitations & Risks

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You may have heard how this golden spice helps humans, but is turmeric good for dogs? In my work as a vet, I’m often asked about its safety, benefits and use in pets.

Turmeric’s potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities have piqued our curiosity. Can it work its magic for our four-legged friends?

Let’s dive in to uncover the facts and explore the benefits of this supplement. We’ll also outline some cautions to observe when giving it to dogs.

What Is Turmeric?

Turmeric, scientifically known as Curcuma longa, is a plant from Southeast Asia. The bright yellow-orange spice comes from dried and ground rhizomes of the plant.

Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, gives it both its color and potential health benefits. It possesses natural antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties in the bodies of animals.

Turmeric is valued in traditional medicine for its healing properties. It has potential benefits for humans and dogs alike. However, due to absorption issues, safety concerns, and the need for proper dosing, using turmeric in a dog’s diet requires careful thought.

• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: One of the most well-known properties of turmeric is its anti-inflammatory effect. Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, has been shown to inhibit various inflammatory pathways in the body. Inflammation plays a role in many diseases, including arthritis, allergies, and certain cancers. (3,12)
• Antioxidant Activity: Curcumin’s strong antioxidant properties counteract harmful free radicals and lower oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is linked to chronic diseases and aging. By neutralizing free radicals turmeric may promote better health and well-being in dogs.
• Anti-Cancer Effects: Some studies suggest that curcumin has anti-cancer effects. (15) It acts by inhibiting the growth and spread of cancer cells and reducing associated inflammation and pain. 
• Antibacterial Effects: Researchers found an antibacterial effect of turmeric against resistant bacteria infecting traumatic wounds. (1)
• Digestive Health: Turmeric has been traditionally used to promote digestive health and aid in digestion. It is believed to stimulate the production of bile, which aids in the breakdown and absorption of fats. It may relieve inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or gastrointestinal inflammation.
• Organ Health: Researchers have studied turmeric’s impact on heart health, brain function, and immune system regulation. 
• Anti-Tick Effects: One study applied essential oil made from turmeric to dogs’ skin before they visited tick-infested areas. The turmeric oil significantly decreased the attachment of ticks to the dogs’ skin. (5)

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Turmeric’s Limitations

Getting turmeric into cells is the biggest obstacle preventing its widespread use. Unfortunately, its active compounds have low solubility in water, rapid metabolism in the liver, and are easily degraded by heat, light, and pH changes. 

Scientists are always working on new strategies to improve turmeric’s absorbability. Formulation strategies that improve absorption include adding piperine from black pepper, liposomal formulations and nano-formulations. 

Finally, we don’t have much research on turmeric for dogs. We mostly have data from studies on humans. Most medical experts agree more research is needed before recommending turmeric as a treatment. (7)

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Side Effects of Turmeric in Dogs

Turmeric is generally considered safe for dogs when used in cooking or applied topically. Side effects are more likely when you use the powder or a supplement at therapeutic doses.

Monitor your dog closely after introducing the supplement. If any adverse effects occur, stop use and consult your veterinarian.

• Digestive Upset: Therapeutic doses of turmeric may cause diarrhea in some dogs, especially when using higher doses of dried root. Turmeric supplements in moderate doses are less likely to cause an upset stomach and intestine.
• Kidney and Bladder Trouble: There is no direct evidence of turmeric causing bladder and kidney stones in dogs. But some experts express concern so it’s advisable to be cautious if your dog is at risk of stone formation.
• Abnormal Blood Clotting: Turmeric’s anti-coagulant properties can affect blood clotting in mice. (4) It is unlikely to cause clotting abnormalities in dogs at recommended dosages. Be sure to inform your vet about any supplements your dog is taking before surgery.
• Allergic Reactions: Allergic reactions to turmeric, whether taken orally or applied topically, are rare but possible. If you notice vomiting, diarrhea, trouble breathing, skin rash, etc., stop using it and consult your vet immediately.

How Much Turmeric Should I Give My Dog?

While turmeric is generally considered safe for dogs, some may have individual sensitivities or underlying health conditions that are incompatible. Additionally, certain medications can interact with turmeric, so professional guidance is important.

When using powdered turmeric, start with a small amount and gradually increase over a period of a week. Monitor your dog’s stool and appetite, and discontinue the supplement if you notice any adverse changes.

Can I Give My Dog Human Turmeric Supplements?

Be careful with giving your dog human turmeric supplements. Some contain the same basic ingredients as dog supplements. But others have additional ingredients that might not sit well with dogs.

Always check the label and consult your veterinarian before giving your dog any supplement labeled for humans.

Vet-Recommended Turmeric for Dogs

I recommend that my clients use a turmeric supplement made specifically for dogs. And by giving the supplement in treat form, you’ll avoid making your dog lose their appetite due to too much spice on their food!

VETRISCIENCE Vetri-Flex Chews for Canine Over 60 lb

Multi-ingredient supplement with curcumin, Boswellia, and grape seed extract. Available as easy-to-administer chewable tablets.

View on Amazon.com

I’m a fan of Vetri-Flex Chews. They contain the Curcuvet® formulation of curcumin which has better absorption than powdered turmeric. These chews also contain other ingredients that combat inflammation.

Please discuss supplements with your own veterinarian before using them.

Last update on 2023-09-22 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API