The bountiful benefits of turmeric for dogs

Updated 25/09/2024

Ever thought about turmeric for your dog? Would you ever consider giving your dog this classic ingredient as part of your dog’s diet? Is turmeric good for your dog? And, if so, what the fluff are the benefits of turmeric for dogs?

Great questions! Well, we’ll help you explore the world of this ginger family plant and sumptuous spice loved by humans for centuries. Let’s find out if turmeric and dogs go together like chalk and cheese, or like two peas in a pod. Follow us as we spice up your doggo’s dinner time…

Is turmeric good for your dog?

In small quantities, turmeric is one of the few spices that are safe for dogs to eat. Because it is edible for dogs, turmeric is sometimes added to dog food. However, it’s not added for the health benefits, instead, it’s used to create a yellow color or dye in pup food. So, are turmeric and dogs compatible? Is turmeric good for your dog?

Well, let’s start by saying that although turmeric isn’t poisonous to dogs in small amounts, it isn’t something they necessarily need in their diet. Yes, there may be some health benefits of turmeric for puppers, but it’s not a must-have in their daily diet.

As always, talk to your vet before adding anything new to your dog’s diet, and be clear on portion control too. That being said, if your vet is happy for you to feed a dusting of turmeric to your pup, there may be a few positive side effects of turmeric and dogs eating it.

Health benefits of turmeric for dogs

Anti-inflammatory properties

Tumeric has been used in human medicine for thousands of years due to its anti-inflammatory properties and immune system-boosting abilities. This can also provide the same health benefits for doggos - the effects of turmeric may help reduce pain, swelling, and allergy symptoms due to its active ingredient of curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant. Just remember that turmeric is no replacement for prescription anti-inflammatory medications, so always speak to your vet if your dog is in pain.

It’s a powerful antioxidant

There’s that curcumin, again! Antioxidants are often thought to be the key to anti-aging in humans. While this isn’t much of an issue in the dog world, antioxidants may help keep your pup’s tissues and organs in tip-top health. Their liver and heart in particular could benefit from a bit of turmeric.

Helps maintain and improve joint health

For doggos who are prone to develop joint problems in later life, like arthritis, turmeric can be a nice supplement to possibly help improve their joint health. The combination of anti-inflammatory properties and the ability to increase blood circulation means a dog’s joints may last a bit longer.

Weight management

In people, turmeric has been shown to help with weight loss so the same could be true in dogs. However, more research is needed in this area. 

Good for skin and coat condition

Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may lead to a healthier coat and skin, especially if your dog has underlying skin allergy issues.  

Remember that the research into turmeric is not as extensive in dogs as it might be in people. It’s also important not to give your dog too much as this could lead to unwanted side effects. You should always speak to your vet for advice, especially if your dog has a health condition like diabetes. While turmeric may be a useful supplement in some cases, it’s not an alternative to prescribed medications, so always follow your vet’s advice when it comes to managing your dog’s health.

Meet our veterinary expert, Rebecca

This article has been checked by veterinarian Rebecca MacMillan, BVetMed MRCVS. Rebecca is a companion animal vet who has always had a passion for writing and client communication. Since her graduation from the Royal Veterinary college in 2009 she has gained a wealth of experience in first opinion small animal practice, in both clinical and managerial roles. She currently works in the South West and deals with a variety of routine and emergency appointments, but particularly enjoys medicine cases. Outside of work and writing, she enjoys spending time with her family, including her bouncy flat coated retriever George!

If you’re a pup parent or canine carer, let us know what your thoughts are on turmeric and dogs. Head to our Community Forum to bark about your dog diet tips and advice, or to simply connect with other dog lovers. You don’t even have to be a member to join in! But, if you’re keen to become a full-time part of our global pet-loving community, take a look at our different membership options, see which one suits you best, and hopefully we’ll see you again soon.