Steph Van Noort
Just like humans, dogs can accumulate toxins in their bodies over time due to environmental exposure, processed foods, and even stress. Luckily, an herbal cleanse for dogs can help.
Seasonal cleansing is a gentle way that we as pet owners can support our dog’s natural detoxification process. It also helps them feel more energized and healthy throughout the year.
Cleansing with natural herbs can help promote healthy skin, support digestion, and assist in the body's elimination of toxins. By incorporating certain herbs into your dog’s routine, you can help keep her system in balance and maintain her overall health.
But which herbs should you choose, and how should you use them? The five herbs below are my favorites. I'll explain why, and what benefits you can expect.
1. Nettle
Nettle is a powerhouse herb known for its ability to support joint health and comfort, as well as helping dogs with seasonal sensitivities. Its rich nutrients and histamine content make it useful for soothing irritated skin and maintaining healthy joints.
Nettle works by promoting a balanced inflammatory response, making it ideal for dogs who experience joint stiffness or discomfort during certain times of the year. Its natural compounds support joint flexibility while also aiding in skin health.
How to Use It
Nettle is available as a tincture, dried herb, or in capsule form, making it easy to incorporate into your dog’s daily routine. Whether used as a supplement or mixed into food, nettle is a simple way to boost overall health.
Precautions
Nettle shouldn't be given to pregnant dogs and may interact with NSAIDs or other medications, so it’s best to consult with a vet before use.
2. Burdock
Burdock has long been valued for its ability to promote a healthy inflammatory response and support skin health. Known for its detoxifying properties, it’s especially beneficial for dogs with skin sensitivities, helping to keep their coat and skin in top condition.
Burdock works primarily by supporting the excretory system, helping the body naturally release toxins. It assists in cleansing the blood and skin by promoting toxin elimination, which contributes to clearer, healthier skin over time.
How to Use It
Burdock can be given to dogs in several forms, including capsules, tinctures, or as a dried herb mixed with their food. It can also be applied topically as a soak for non-broken skin, helping to soothe irritations and promote healing.
Precautions
Avoid giving burdock to pregnant dogs or dogs on diabetes medications, as it can interfere with blood sugar levels.
Psyllium
Psyllium is a highly effective herb that promotes healthy digestion by supporting regular bowel movements and aiding in the maintenance of a balanced intestinal system. It’s particularly useful for dogs that may experience occasional constipation or diarrhea, as it helps normalize bowel function.
When mixed with water, psyllium forms a gel-like substance that absorbs excess liquid in the intestines, helping to move waste more easily. This process helps keep your dog’s digestion on track by ensuring smoother and more regular bowel movements, while also promoting the healthy elimination of toxins.
How to Use It
Start by mixing ¼ to 1 teaspoon of psyllium husk with a cup of water, depending on your dog’s size, and add it to their food. It’s best to start with a smaller dose and gradually increase as needed to ensure your dog’s digestive system adapts.
Precautions
Psyllium can interact with certain medications, so it’s important to consult your vet if your dog is on any prescribed treatments. It’s also not recommended for dogs with kidney issues, as it may cause complications in some cases.
4. Dandelion
Dandelion is a widely recognized herb that supports both kidney and liver health, making it a great choice for promoting natural detoxification. It acts as a natural diuretic, helping to flush toxins from the kidneys while simultaneously supporting liver function, which is crucial for filtering out waste from the body.
Dandelion helps stimulate the kidneys to remove excess water and salt, encouraging the elimination of waste products. Additionally, it contains potassium, an important nutrient that prevents the loss of this essential mineral while promoting healthy liver function, allowing the body to detoxify more efficiently.
How to Use It
Dandelion root can be used in either tincture form or as a dried herb. You can mix the tincture with your dog’s food or water, or sprinkle the dried herb directly onto her meals.
Precautions
Because of its diuretic properties, dandelion may interfere with certain medications, particularly those related to the kidneys. Always check with your vet before adding it to your dog’s regimen.
5. Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is one of the most well-known herbs for supporting liver health, helping to protect and regenerate liver cells. Its active compound, silymarin, is particularly beneficial for promoting healthy liver function, making it an essential herb for dogs needing extra detox support.
Silymarin in milk thistle works by supporting the repair of damaged liver cells and encouraging the production of bile, which aids in digestion and helps the liver remove toxins from the body. By promoting liver cell regeneration, milk thistle is a powerful ally in maintaining overall digestive health and detoxification.
How to Use It
Milk thistle can be given to your dog in tincture form or as a dried herb, which can be easily mixed into food. Dosage should be based on your dog’s weight, so consult with a vet for proper guidance.
Precautions
Milk thistle shouldn't be given to pregnant dogs or dogs with hormone-related cancers, as it may interfere with hormone regulation. Additionally, it may interact with other medications, so it’s important to check with your vet before introducing it into your dog’s routine.
FAQ
How do I detox my dog's body? To detox your dog's body, you can incorporate cleansing herbs like burdock, dandelion, and milk thistle, which help support the liver, kidneys, and immune system. Always consult a holistic or homeopathic vet to ensure the detox process is safe and appropriate for your dog's body weight and health condition.
What can I give my dog to flush his system? Cleansing herbs like dandelion and psyllium can help flush your dog's system by supporting kidney function and promoting regular digestion. Be sure to work with a homeopathic vet to find the right herbs for your pet’s specific needs.
How to detox a dog from parasites? To detox a dog from parasites, consider natural options like grated carrots, pumpkin seeds, or dried coconut, which help support the digestive tract. Consult a holistic or homeopathic vet for advice on natural remedies that won’t replace veterinary advice but complement your dog’s health plan.
What does burdock root do for dogs? Burdock root helps cleanse your dog’s body by promoting a healthy immune system and supporting the excretory system to flush out toxins. It’s one of the most effective cleansing herbs for dogs, often used to support healthy skin and liver function.