Can dogs eat ginger?
There are many natural remedies for pets, and ginger is one of them. Even though we love to give our pets wild crafted plant remedies, it’s always good to ask if they are generally safe for your pet.
In this article, we will discuss ginger for dogs because, YES, dogs can eat ginger, in the right amounts.
Ginger is a popular plant food that is widely used in cooking, and as a natural remedy for various ailments for humans. Ginger is not only safe for dogs to consume, in the right amounts, but it also offers several health benefits.
Ginger is a usually called a root that belongs to the Zingiberaceae family. It is native to Southeast Asia and has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. Ginger contains several bioactive compounds, including gingerol, shogaol, and zingerone, which are responsible for its many health benefits.
The root really isn’t a root, it’s a rhizome. Both are found underground but the difference is that a root takes in nutrients from soil, whereas a rhizome acts like a storage facility. Rhizomes send out stems from their nodes. According to Smart Garden Guide, they really are a stem, that grows under ground.
Ginger has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties. It is also known to improve digestion, reduce nausea, and alleviate pain. These properties make ginger an excellent natural remedy for dogs. Ginger is not toxic to dogs, and it is safe for them to consume in small amounts. However, like with any new food, it is essential to introduce ginger gradually to your dog’s diet and watch for any signs of an allergic reaction.
We always recommend that you consult a licensed veterinary care professional when introducing new things to your dog, or if your dog has a health condition.
Can Dogs Eat Ginger For Health Benefits?
Ginger offers several health benefits for dogs, including:
Anti-inflammatory properties
Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate joint pain and stiffness in dogs with arthritis. It may also help reduce inflammation in dogs with skin conditions, such as hot spots and allergies. Ginger inhibits prostaglandins, which occur at areas of injury, and are involved in inflammation and blood flow.
Digestive aid
Ginger is known to improve digestion and can help alleviate digestive issues in dogs, such as bloating, gas, and constipation. It can also help reduce nausea and vomiting in dogs with motion sickness or those undergoing chemotherapy.
If you suspect that your dog does have bloating, this is cause to seek medical attention. Why?
There is a live threatening condition called GDV or gastric dilation and volvulus. If bloat does progress to a CDV, both entrances to the stomach can become blocked.
Fo overall digestive support, ginger can be added to your dogs diet. In fact the next property of ginger is helpful for your dogs gut.
Antimicrobial properties
There are many common microbes and fungus, that can affect pets. Giardia is one of them This study shows that ginger was effective in reducing the trophozoites of Giardia in the digestive tract.
“The crude extract and the essential oil of Zingiber officinale contains alkaloids, saponins, tannins, glycosides, flavonoids which are responsible for anti-inflammatory, antidiarrheal, antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, spasmolytic action and antioxidant properties.” –
Antioxidant properties
The antioxidant properties of ginger, are protective, with the shogaol identified as 6-Shogaol identified as being the most potent. In animals, it raised antioxidant enzymes and serum glutathione. Antioxidant properties can help protect your dog’s cells from damage caused by free radicals and oxidative stress. This may help reduce the risk of = chronic diseases in dogs.
How to Give Ginger to Your Dog
There are several ways to give ginger to your dog, including:
1. Fresh ginger root
You can give your dog fresh ginger root by grating it and adding it to their food. Start with a small amount, such as 1/8 teaspoon, and gradually increase the amount to no more than 1/4 teaspoon per day for small dogs and 1/2 teaspoon per day for larger dogs.
2. Ginger powder
You can also give your dog ginger powder by adding it to their food or making ginger treats. Start with a small amount, such as 1/8 teaspoon, and gradually increase the amount to no more than 1/4 teaspoon per day for small dogs and 1/2 teaspoon per day for larger dogs.
3. Ginger supplements
There are several ginger supplements available for dogs that come in the form of capsules or chews. Make sure to follow the dosage instructions carefully and consult with your veterinarian before giving your dog any supplements.
Ginger Dosage for Dogs
The recommended ginger dosage for dogs is no more than 1/4 teaspoon per day for small dogs and 1/2 teaspoon per day for larger dogs. It is essential to start with a small amount and gradually increase the dosage to avoid any digestive issues.
Precautions When Giving Ginger to Dogs
While ginger is generally safe for dogs to consume, there are a few precautions to keep in mind.
Allergies: Some dogs may be allergic to ginger, so it is essential to introduce it gradually to your dog’s diet and watch for any signs of an allergic reaction, such as itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
Overuse: Too much ginger can cause digestive issues in dogs, such as diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach upset. Make sure to follow the recommended dosage and avoid giving your dog too much ginger.
Pregnant and lactating dogs, dogs on medications, or with health conditions: Ginger can have an effect on blood thinning, so check with your professional before feeding ginger.
The bottom line:
Ginger is a safe and natural remedy that offers several health benefits for dogs. It can help improve digestion, reduce inflammation, and protect against chronic diseases. However, it is essential to introduce ginger gradually to your dog’s diet and follow the recommended dosage. If you have any concerns or questions about giving your dog ginger, consult with your veterinarian.