When you think of licorice, you probably picture the sweet, chewy candy found in grocery store aisles. But the licorice we’re talking about is very different.

Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is an ancient medicinal herb with powerful health benefits for dogs. Used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, and even Ancient Egypt, licorice root is a natural remedy for inflammation, digestive problems, and more. It’s a far cry from the sugary licorice candies we humans enjoy, and it might just become your dog’s new favorite herbal remedy.

Below, I dive into everything you need to know about licorice root and how it can support your dog’s health. From soothing itchy skin to helping with arthritis or even leaky gut, this herb can do a lot. But like any natural remedy, it’s important to understand how to use it safely.

What Is Licorice Root?

Licorice root, or Glycyrrhiza glabra, is a member of the pea family that’s been used in herbal medicine for centuries. It’s a perennial plant, which means it grows back year after year, and its roots are harvested in the fall when they’re packed with nutrients.

This plant isn’t just your average garden herb—it’s a natural powerhouse packed with antioxidants and soothing properties that make it incredibly versatile.

What makes licorice root stand out is its unique ability to support a healthy inflammatory response while supporting the body’s natural healing processes. It’s widely used in both Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurveda to treat issues like indigestion and respiratory problems.

In fact, it’s so effective that herbalists often call it the “adaptable herb” because it can be used in so many different ways. Whether you’re dealing with a dog who has itchy skin, arthritis, or an upset stomach, licorice root can help.

Is Licorice Root Safe For Dogs?

Licorice root is generally safe for dogs when used correctly, but like anything, there are a few things you need to watch out for. In small, controlled amounts, licorice root can be a fantastic addition to your dog’s health routine.

However, it’s not a herb you should use every day without guidance from a holistic vet. Prolonged use or incorrect dosages can lead to side effects like fluid retention or changes in blood pressure, especially if your dog already has a health condition.

There are some specific cases where licorice root isn’t a good choice. Pregnant dogs, dogs with Cushing’s disease, and those with certain heart conditions shouldn’t be given licorice root. Additionally, if your dog is on medications like corticosteroids or blood thinners, it’s important to consult your vet first because licorice root can interact with these drugs.

For a safer option, you can try deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), which removes the glycyrrhizin compound that can cause side effects while still keeping the herb’s healing benefits intact. This version is particularly helpful for dogs with sensitive systems or those who need long-term care.

Key Benefits Of Licorice Root For Dogs

Digestive Support And Leaky Gut Relief

Licorice root is one of the best natural remedies for dogs suffering from digestive issues, particularly leaky gut syndrome. Leaky gut occurs when the lining of the intestines becomes damaged, allowing harmful toxins and undigested food particles to leak into the bloodstream.

This triggers chronic inflammation, which can lead to long-term problems like arthritis, allergies, and even autoimmune diseases. Licorice root’s soothing properties help support a healthy inflammatory response while stimulating mucus production to protect the gut lining.

For dogs with acid reflux, upset stomachs, or indigestion, licorice root can also provide quick relief. It’s especially effective when used as a deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) tincture, which removes the glycyrrhizin compound that may cause side effects. Dosing is simple—start with 12 to 20 drops per 20 lbs of body weight twice daily and consult a vet for long-term use. This makes licorice root a powerful ally in keeping your dog’s digestive system healthy and balanced.

Skin And Topical Use

Itchy, irritated skin can be a nightmare for both dogs and their owners, but licorice root can help bring relief. It’s a great option for managing conditions like contact dermatitis, flea allergies, and hot spots. Whether your dog has a persistent itch or needs help healing minor bruises and skin injuries, licorice root can ease discomfort and speed up the healing process.

You can apply licorice root topically as a tea, salve, or oil. For example, you can create a licorice infusion by steeping dried licorice root in olive oil for 30 days, then straining it for use. This gentle, natural remedy not only reduces itching but also helps keep your dog comfortable while you address the root cause of their skin issues through diet or other treatments.

Arthritis And Joint Pain

For dogs with arthritis or joint pain, licorice root offers a natural alternative to pharmaceutical anti-inflammatories. Compounds in licorice, including glycyrrhizin, work to support a healthy inflammatory response and provide pain relief, making it an excellent choice for managing occasional joint discomfort. It can even help protect cartilage from degeneration, which is key to maintaining mobility in aging dogs.

However, because licorice root can have side effects when used long-term, it’s best to consult with a holistic vet if your dog has chronic arthritis or joint issues. In the short term, licorice root can also be applied topically to joints as a soothing oil or salve. This dual approach—internal and external—can give your dog some much-needed relief without relying solely on medications.

Respiratory Relief

Licorice root isn’t just for digestion or joints—it’s also a fantastic remedy for respiratory problems. As a natural cough suppressant, it soothes sore throats and helps loosen mucus in the lungs, making it easier for your dog to breathe. Whether your dog has a mild cough or more significant respiratory irritation, licorice can provide relief without harsh chemicals.

Its effects also help reduce swelling in the respiratory tract, offering comfort for dogs with conditions like kennel cough or seasonal allergies. Adding licorice root tea to your dog’s care routine is a simple way to support their respiratory health, especially during cold or allergy seasons.

Liver And Detox Support

Licorice root has a long history in Traditional Chinese Medicine as a liver detoxifier, making it an excellent alternative to milk thistle for dogs. Its antioxidant properties help protect the liver from toxins, support a healthy inflammatory response, and support the body’s natural detoxification processes. This makes it particularly useful for dogs exposed to environmental toxins, processed foods, or medications that strain the liver.

By preventing cell damage and supporting mitochondrial health, licorice root helps keep your dog’s liver functioning optimally. If you’re looking for a holistic way to protect your dog’s liver, especially in conjunction with other detoxifying herbs, licorice root is a valuable option to consider.

Addison’s Disease

For dogs with Addison’s disease, licorice root’s steroid-like properties can provide much-needed support for adrenal function. Addison’s disease occurs when the adrenal glands don’t produce enough hormones, leading to symptoms like fatigue, low appetite, and even collapse. Licorice root works by mimicking the body’s natural corticosteroids, helping to regulate hormonal balance and reduce inflammation.

Herbalists often combine licorice root with adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha or mushrooms to enhance its benefits for adrenal health. However, because Addison’s disease is a serious condition, it’s essential to work closely with a holistic vet to determine the right dosage and combination of herbs for your dog’s specific needs.

How To Use Licorice For Dogs

Topical Use

Licorice root is a fantastic natural remedy for soothing irritated skin and speeding up healing for minor wounds or bruises.

One of the best ways to use it topically is by making an oil infusion. To do this, place dried licorice root in a glass jar and cover it completely with olive oil. Let the mixture sit in a warm but dark place for about 30 days, shaking it occasionally to help extract the beneficial compounds. After a month, strain out the root and store the infused oil in a clean jar in the refrigerator.

This oil can be applied directly to itchy skin, rashes, hot spots, and even areas affected by flea allergies. Because licorice has natural corticosteroid-like properties, it can help support a healthy inflammatory response without the harmful side effects of pharmaceutical steroids.

If your dog has minor cuts, bruises, or joint pain, massaging a small amount of the infused oil into the affected area can offer natural relief. Just keep an eye on your dog to prevent excessive licking, though a small amount ingested from licking isn’t harmful.

Internal Use

When using licorice root internally, it’s essential to get the dosing right and choose the right form of the herb for your dog’s needs.

The two most common methods are glycerin extracts (glycerites) and tea infusions.

• Glycerin Extract (Glycerite): This is one of the easiest ways to administer licorice root. Glycerites are gentle, well-tolerated, and don’t contain alcohol. For general use, the recommended dose is 12-20 drops per 20 lbs of body weight, twice daily. This can be mixed into food or given directly using a dropper.
• Licorice Root Tea: Making a simple tea can also be a great way to give your dog the benefits of licorice root. Steep 1 teaspoon of dried licorice root in 1 cup of hot water for about 10-15 minutes, then let it cool before use. For dosing, give 30-60 drops per 20 lbs of body weight, twice daily. This can be added to your dog’s water bowl, mixed into food, or administered directly with a syringe.

For digestive issues like acid reflux or leaky gut, deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL) is recommended instead of whole licorice root to avoid potential side effects from glycyrrhizin. Always start with a conservative dose and consult a holistic vet if you plan to use licorice root long-term.

Cautions When Using Licorice Root

While licorice root is generally safe for short-term use, excessive or prolonged use can cause some unwanted side effects. The glycyrrhizin compound in licorice can lead to:

• Water retention and bloating
• Sodium retention and electrolyte imbalance
• Low potassium levels (hypokalemia), which can affect heart and muscle function
• Increased blood pressure (hypertension), especially in susceptible dogs

If you notice signs of swelling, excessive thirst, lethargy, or irregular heart rhythms in your dog, stop using licorice root and consult a vet. These effects are most likely to occur with long-term use, which is why licorice should be used in moderation.

Certain dogs should avoid licorice root due to underlying health conditions that could be worsened by its effects.

Do not give licorice root to dogs with:

• Diabetes – Licorice can influence blood sugar levels.
• Heart disease or high blood pressure – The sodium retention effect can increase strain on the cardiovascular system.
• Liver disease – While licorice can support liver health, it should only be used under veterinary guidance in dogs with liver conditions.
• Pregnant or nursing dogs – Licorice may affect hormone levels and should be avoided in these cases.

If your dog is on corticosteroids or blood thinners, consult a holistic vet before using licorice root, as it can interact with these medications and may require dosage adjustments.

Pairing Licorice With Other Herbs

To reduce the risk of water retention or potassium loss, licorice root is often paired with diuretic herbs like dandelion leaf, which helps flush out excess fluids while replenishing potassium levels.

If you plan to use licorice root for more than two weeks, adding a kidney-supporting herb like parsley or nettle may also help counteract any imbalances.

For conditions like Addison’s disease, licorice is frequently combined with adaptogens like ashwagandha and ginseng to provide more balanced adrenal support. Working with a holistic vet or herbalist can help determine the best combination for your dog’s specific needs.

What About Licorice Candy?

When people hear "licorice," they often think of the black or red candy found in stores, but licorice candy is not the same as licorice root. In fact, licorice candy is completely unsuitable for dogs due to its high sugar content, artificial flavors, and additives. These ingredients can contribute to obesity, dental issues, and even digestive upset in dogs.

Red licorice, in particular, contains no real licorice at all—it’s just sugar and artificial flavoring. Black licorice may contain small amounts of licorice extract, but it is still processed with syrups, sweeteners, and preservatives that are not safe for dogs.

In rare cases, black licorice candy outside the U.S. may be flavored with real licorice extract, but that doesn’t make it safe for dogs. Even in its natural form, excessive licorice can cause high blood pressure and potassium imbalances. There have been reports of humans experiencing serious side effects after consuming large amounts of real licorice candy, including heart issues and swelling—imagine what that could do to a dog’s smaller system!

If you want to give your dog the benefits of licorice, stick to natural licorice root preparations—either as a tea, glycerite, or oil infusion. Avoid licorice-flavored candies or processed treats, which offer no nutritional value and may pose health risks.

FAQ

What happens if a dog eats licorice? If dogs eat licorice in small amounts, they may experience mild digestive upset, but large quantities can lead to health problems like high blood pressure, fluid retention, and potassium imbalances. If your dog consumes a significant amount, contact a veterinarian immediately to prevent serious complications.

How much licorice is safe for a dog? While small doses of natural licorice root may offer health benefits, too much can cause health issues such as sodium retention and elevated blood pressure. It’s best to consult your vet before giving any licorice-based supplement to ensure safe usage for your dog’s specific needs.

Can dogs have Twizzlers licorice? No, Twizzlers and other licorice-flavored candies contain sweet taste enhancers, artificial colors, and high sugar levels, which can lead to weight gain and digestive upset in dogs. These processed treats offer no nutritional value and should be avoided entirely.

Is black licorice safe? Black licorice made with real licorice extract can cause health problems like high blood pressure and electrolyte imbalances in dogs. Always check the site or product label for ingredients, and avoid giving black licorice to your dog to prevent potential toxicity.