Dogs are where much of the Turmeric User Group’s experience began. Owners most often try turmeric for older dogs that are stiff and slowing down, but plenty of people simply add it to a healthy dog’s diet. Here’s how to get started.
Step 1: check with your vet
Especially if your dog takes any medication (including phenobarbital, NSAIDs or antibiotics), is due for surgery, is pregnant, or is having cancer treatment. → Turmeric and medications
Step 2: choose how to feed it
1. Golden Paste (recommended). Make a batch of Golden Paste and mix a small amount into each meal. It keeps for 2–3 weeks in the fridge and freezes well.
2. Ready-made bites or treats. Convenient if you’re short on time. Follow the serving size for your dog’s weight on the pack. Don’t rely only on treats for turmeric.
3. Turmeric gravy. Mix up to 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder, about 1/8 teaspoon of freshly ground pepper and about 1 teaspoon of oil with boiling water to make about half a cup. That’s enough for a day; pour some over each meal.
4. Straight into food. 1/4 teaspoon of powder, 1/4 teaspoon of coconut, olive or linseed oil and a few grinds of pepper stirred into a meal. It’s the simplest method, but it works least well.
Step 3: start small, build slowly
- Start with about 1/4 teaspoon (smaller for little dogs) at least twice a day.
- Increase slowly over two to three weeks.
- Little and often is best. If your dog needs more, add an extra serving in the day before making each serving bigger.
- Once you’re happy with how your dog is moving and feeling, that’s your maintenance amount.
What to watch for
- Loose stools: turmeric speeds up the gut. Drop back to about 1/8 teaspoon and build up more slowly.
- A “cat pee” smell: this usually passes in a couple of weeks; Ceylon cinnamon in the paste helps.
- Yellow everything: turmeric stains fur, bowls and carpets!
What not to use
High-strength 95% curcumin capsules made for people aren’t recommended for dogs.
General information only, not veterinary advice. If your dog is unwell, please see your vet.
Where to get it: Turmeric Dog Bites, formulated by Dr Doug, are available at turmericlife.com.au ↗
Is your dog on turmeric? Tell us how you feed it in the comments.
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