Garlic for Dogs - Health Benefits, Preparation, Use, Safe Dosage

Galric for dogs, health benefits, preparation, use and safe dosage

★ 6 min read
  
In this article:
1. Why Garlic is Good For Dogs
    1.1 The Truth

           - The debate
           - Thiosulphate and Heinz Factor Anemia

           - To Good to Ignore
2. History of Garlic 
3. Health Benefits of Fresh Garlic 
4. Active Medicinal Ingredients in Garlic
5. Activating The Medicinal Properties of Garlic 
6. Forms of Garlic You Should Not Use 
7. How to Include Garlic In Your Dog's Daily Diet
       - Safe Daily Dosage
8. Cautions
9. Drug Interactions
10. Other Uses for Garlic
         -  Flea, Tick, Mosquito and Parasite Repellent, Treatment and Prevention
         - Topical Treatment for Ear Infections
 

1.0 Why Garlic is Good For Dogs
 
You may have heard that garlic is bad for dogs, but in actual fact garlic is good for dogs.

1.1 The Truth About Garlic

The Debate
The debate about whether garlic is good or bad seems to have arisen from confusion with its close cousin, the onion.  And that question has been furthered by people - professionals and public alike - who do not inform themselves about the actual properties of these foods prior to pronouncing their opinion.

Which means that their pronouncement is an OPINION and an uninformed judgement based on lack of information rather than an evidence-based fact.
 
Thiosulphate and Heinx Factor Anemia

Both garlic and onion contain thiosulphate, the substance responsible for causing ‘Heinx Factor’ anemia in dogs and cats. 

The amount of thiosulphate found in garlic is much lower than in onions, in fact the amount in garlic is barely traceable. For the majority of dogs garlic dosing within recommended guidelines (see further below) does not result in dangerous levels of thiosulphate.  The only dog breeds that should not be given garlic are Japanese dog breeds. For example the Akita and the Shibu Inu as these breeds have a sensitivity to garlic that is similar to that of cats (see further below).

The NCIB (National Center for Biotechnology Information) provides scientific research regarding safe use of garlic for dogs. None of the dogs in the study developed Heinz Factor. You can read the research paper here.

Cats are much more sensitive to thiosulphate than dogs. Cats are, in general more sensitive to biologically foreign substances. For example, the range of essential oils suitable for cats is considerably less than for dogs. While garlic is found in some holistic medicine-blends for cats, the amount used is strictly controlled. A wise cat may choose to rub up against a patch of wild garlic for its insect repelling properties, however I recommend you not administer garlic to your cat, unless it is present in minuet amounts in a made-for-cat proved-to-be-safe product. Some cat-owners give a small amount of garlic to their cats a couple of times a week. I do not recommend this for the average cat guardian.

The fear of garlic as a healthful herb for dogs is a new fear propagated by rumor on the internet and not proven by any facts or study. To see an extensive list of foods that dogs should truly not be consuming and/or should be consuming with caution, read here.
 
To Good to Ignore
Garlic is a powerful, natural broad-spectrum antibiotic. Garlic is also an antioxidant, anti-allergen, antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-protozoan, anti-viral and anti-carcinogen. Garlic contains germanium, an anti-cancer agent and an anti-protozoan. Garlic can also be used topically to treat specific ailments - for example ear mite infestation and ear infections.
Garlic also contains sulfur - a natural insect repellent!

When garlic is ingested in reasonable amounts there are no harmful results - only benefits, and no, it won’t make your dog smell like garlic.
 
 2.0 History of Garlic
Garlic is a member of the allium genus - garlic is considered a vegetable, and a member of the Lily family. Garlic is an ancient food crop - cherished for its vegetable bulb and flower stalk (scape), the garlic plant has been harvested and cultivated by mankind for thousands of years.

There are many types of garlic - cultivated, heirloom and wild, examples can be found here.


The word garlic comes from the Old English word garleac - ‘spear leek’. 


Garlic is divided into two main varieties - hardnecked garlic, and softneck garlic. Hardneck garlic does not store well for long periods of time, but the cloves are easier (than softneck varieties) to peel. Softneck garlic stores very well for longer periods of time, making it the most common type of garlic sold in grocery stores. All information discussed in this article applies to hardnecked and softnecked garlic.


Garlic is also an herbal plant with many health giving properties.  Garlic - when used properly, offers many health benefits to dogs.

Unfortunately, all
other members of the allium family, including - c
hives, leeks, shallots and onions are toxic to dogs.

 3.0 Health Benefits of Fresh Garlic
Health benefits of garlic for dogs
  • Anti-bacterial
  • Antibiotic (broad spectrum)
  • Anti-carcinogen, garlic contains germanium - an anti-cancer agent
    • Garlic helps to prevent a variety of cancers such as: bladder cancer, colon cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer; rectal cancer, stomach cancer
    • Garlic is also used to treat some forms of cancer such as bladder and prostate cancer
  • Garlic helps to regulate blood pressure
  • Heart health support to prevent
    • Heart disease
    • Heart attack
    • Hardening of the arteries
  • Helps strengthen the body's defenses against allergies
  • Helps regulate blood sugar levels
  • High cholesterol reduction
  • Garlic is high in vitamins, minerals and nutrients
  • Calcium, Potassium, Zinc
  • Protein
  • Vitamin A, B, B2, C
  • Garlic is an aid to fighting and treating
    • Asthma
    • Environmental allergies
    • Diabetes
    • Diarrhea
    • Fatigue
    • Liver, heart and kidney disease
    • Maintenance of healthy liver function
    • Ear infections and ear mite infestations
    • Stress
  • Garlic is a natural

4.0 Active Medicinal Ingredients in Garlic
Garlic contains multiple sulfur inclusive compounds. Allinn and another enzyme ‘alliinase’, both present in garlic, but contained in separate cells gain the opportunity to combine and create a new enzyme called ‘allicin’ when garlic is chopped, crushed, minced or chewed. Allicin (an anti-biotic, anti-bacterial, anti-cancer, heart healthy enzyme) is the most beneficial of the healthful enzymes in garlic.

5.0 Activating the Medicinal Properties
How To Prepare Garlic for Maximum Health Benefits
  • Chop, crush, mince or press/bruise the fresh garlic, and then;
    • Allow to sit at room temperature for at minimum five (5) minutes and better ten (10) to fifteen (15) minutes.
    • This gives the allinn and alliinase sufficient time to undergo the enzymic reaction that creates allicin - the medicinal ingredient in garlic.
    • The garlic is ready for consumption.
    • The medicinal properties remain active for up to one (1) hour after you have activated them.
    • After one hour has passed the medicinal properties begin to degrade which is why it is important to use fresh minced garlic. 
 
6.0 Forms of Garlic You Should Not Use

Dry, Dehydrated, Powdered, Mixed Garlic, In Brine, Supplement
Don't give your dog garlic steak spice and similar products. This type of product contains ingredients that are not appropriate for dogs. Such as: fillers, hidden MSG, sugar, iodized salt, food coloring and other additives.
Note that dehydrated, powdered garlic, minced garlic or cloves in brine don't provide the medicinal qualities found in fresh, minced garlic.

7.0 How to Include Garlic in Your Dog’s Daily Diet
Garlic should always be used as a "self-select" dietary supplement. Allow your dog to indicate if he/she wants to eat the fresh minced garlic. Offer the garlic to your dog, by placing the fresh minced garlic beside your dog's food. If your dog does not want to eat garlic respect your dog's indication. Like all herbs, not every herb is suited to every dog. Allow your dog to indicate suitability. Learn more about self-selection here.

Garlic for dogs, daily dosage based on body weight
 
Daily Dosage for Dogs by Body Weight
  • 1 teaspoon (tsp) fresh, raw minced garlic per every: 
    •  30 lbs of body weight
    • 13.6 kg of body weight
  • For dogs less than 30 pounds:
    • 20 pound dog - 2/3 of a tsp
    • 15 pound dog - 1/2 of a tsp
    • 10 pound dog - 1/3 of a tsp
    • 5 pound dog - 1/6 of a tsp
I discourage dosing by clove. Dosing by clove is not a good method of dosing as clove size varies depending on the type of garlic. There are many varieties of garlic including small up to giant garlic bulbs with very large cloves. Clove size also varies within each garlic bulb.  
 
8.0 Cautions
  • Pregnant and Lactating Dogs
    • When used in the dosage provided above, garlic is safe for pregnant dogs;
    • The only caution around garlic for pregnant dogs is that if ingested in large quantities it can flavor the milk of lactating females (human and canine).
  • Puppies
    • Don't give garlic to puppies that are 6 months of age or younger. 
    • Under 6 months of age a puppy's red blood cell mass is not mature enough to allow for safe use of garlic. 
    • Dosing with garlic at 6 months of age or under can trigger hemolytic anemia (all dog breeds).
  •  Akitas and Shibu Inus
    • Akitas and Shibu Inus are more sensitive (than other dog breeds) to enzymes in garlic that can cause hemolytic anemia. Avoid use of garlic in the Akita and Shibu Inus' diet.
       
  • Garlic From China
    • Some garlic from China has been found to be contaminated with high levels of arsenic, lead and added sulfites.
  • Self-Selection
    •  If your dog does not want to eat his/her food once you have added garlic, or if you are delivering garlic to your dog in another way (without food), and your dog does not want the garlic do not force the garlic on your dog. Many dogs do have good instinct / senses to 'know' what he/she needs, and /or if the food, herb, nutraceutical or alternative medicine you are offering is not appropriate for his/her individual situation.

  •  Health and Medical Contradictions
    • Keep in mind that:
      • Garlic is a hot herb, this can make it unsuitable to some dogs and as well dogs with specific health issues and conditions.
      • Like all foods and herbs, an individual can be intolerant or hypersensitive (allergic) to specific items, including garlic.
    • If your dog has a health or medical condition(s), make sure you check garlic's suitability for your dog's specific circumstances. For example:
      • If your dog has IBS or Colitis
        • Garlic is high in insoluble fiber and sulfur compounds - as a general rule it is best  not to give fresh garlic to dogs that have IBS or colitis. 

9.0 Drug Interactions
  • If your dog is on conventional drugs make sure you check for drug interactions - the below is an example of some garlic and drug interactions...
    • If your dog is on cyclosporine:
      • Garlic may increase the rate at which cyclosprine is broken down by the body, and;
      • Might decrease the effectiveness of cyclosporine;
      • So, do not give your dog garlic if he/she is on cyclosporin.
  • If your dog is on any medication that is changed by the liver. 
  • If your dog is on a blood thinner:
    • Garlic can slow down blood clotting -  garlic may increase the efficacy of the blood thinner;
    • The dosage of the blood thinner would need to be adjusted for intake of garlic. 

10.0 Other Beneficial Uses For Garlic

Flea, Tick, Mosquito and Parasites Treatment and Repellent
Garlic is a natural wormer and can also be used in combination with other herbs and nutraceuticals to treat repel and avoid the development of parasite infestations. More on natural wormers here.

Garlic is a natural insect repellent and can also be used topically in combination with other herbs and nutraceuticals to treat and repel insects, learn more here.


Ear Infections
Garlic can be used topically in combination with other nutraceuticals as a topical treatment for ear infections. More about ear infections and natural treatments here.




11.0 Holistic Support

Holistic Wellness Services and Holistic Behaviorist Services 

Holistic Wellness and Behaviorist Services

Do you need holistic advice to support your companion animal's health and well being? Become a client. Book your consultation. My professional holistic nutrition, wellness and behavioral services are available to you:
🌿 Holistic Wellness Services for Dogs and Cats 🐕 🐈
🌿 Holistic Behaviorist Services for Dogs 🐕

My Holistic Client Services are Available Worldwide:
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Available Holistic Consultations and Sessions:
📱 FaceTime
📱 Facebook video or voice calling
💻 Skype
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🚶🏻‍♀️ In-Person

Menu of Holistic Wellness Services for Dogs and Cats 🐕🐈
For more information go here. 
✅  Maintain Health, and;
✅  Address Health Issues and Conditions:
✓ Treatment and Remedy 
 Pre-Surgery holistic support protocols
 Post-Surgery holistic healing protocols
 Pre-Vaccine holistic support protocols 
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 Natural Insect and Parasite Prevention
 Natural Treatment for Insect, Parasite Infestation, Co-Infection, Disease
✅  Custom Designed Whole Food Diets - raw or gently cooked, and;
✅  Advice and Recommendation: 
✓ Premade Diets - raw, dehydrated, freeze dried 
✓ Supplemental Fresh Foods - raw, gently cooked
✓ Super foods
✓ Treats - raw, dehydrated, freeze dried, gently cooked
✓ Herbs 
✓ Alternative Medicines

Menu of Holistic Behaviorist Services for Dogs 🐕
For more information go here
In-person Sessions - available locally
Voice and Video Sessions - available worldwide 
✓   Obedience Training
✓   Behavior Modification
✓   Psychological Rehabilitation

Affiliations to Companies
✓ None.
✓ I don't sell food or supplements.
✓ I'm not aligned with any companies.
✓ I choose to maintain my objectivity in selecting best-solutions for my individual client's needs.

Contact me
karen@ottawavalleydogwhisperer.ca

Article and graphics by Karen Rosenfeld 

Comments

  1. Very useful information. However when you say a clove a garlic for every 30lbs...cloves of garlic come in many different sizes, the organic garlic I buy has tiny cloves for example. Would you be able to suggest dosage say per teaspoon of crushed garlic? Thanks :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes absolutely garlic cloves vary vastly depending on the type of garlic. Some types of garlic have a very large bulb and may have only 4 to 6 cloves while another type can be represented by a smaller bulb with 10 to 12 cloves. The fact that the garlic is organic or not does not determine the size of the bulb/clove - the type of garlic does i.e. Music, Russian Red, Siberian Gold etc. So as a rule of thumb you can assume 1 tsp/30lbs. Cheers, Karen :>)

      Delete
    2. Thank you Karen, your comprehensive and quick response is most appreciated. Happy holiday season to you and yours :)

      Delete
  2. can garlic powder be used instead

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Unfortunately powder will not have the same potent health benefits that fresh chopped garlic has. As well,commercially produced garlic powder has gone through various manufacturing processes with further degrade the efficacy of the garlic :>)

      Delete
  3. This is something that I heard long ago and use to do to keep my dog healthy.

    ReplyDelete
  4. It's not that I don't believe you about garlic...I want to, but I just have to convince myself that it isn't toxic like "they" say. Would you happen to have the articles that you took you info out of? I have googled and searched etc, but I have found SO much conflicting information, I am not sure what to think. I however, don't want to give my dog heart gard or put that nasty smelling stuff on to prevent ticks and fleas if I can help it. It sets my sons asthma off as well as gives my husband a headache until the smell goes away. Thanks
    Julie

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Julie - my knowledge is gathered from many sources as well as from living and working with dogs for 25 years. You can look at my own pack of dogs as an example if you wish http://www.ottawavalleydogwhisperer.com/My-Pack_My-Pack.html#.UX_wwcrKSHc

      There are 10 of them - various sizes and breeds - they are healthy, HEALTHY!

      They don't get annual shots and are not on chemical based flea, tick, heart worm preventatives.

      That nasty smelling stuff you refer to - that will in time kill your dog. Look at the chart at the end of this article http://ottawavalleydogwhisperer.blogspot.ca/2013/01/lemon-safe-natural-misquito-repellent.html

      The decision you make is up to you - people have a lot of misconceptions based on lack of real knowledge.

      Delete
    2. do you give your dog rabies shots? Rabies is prevalent here in semi-rural western PA and I don't want to be responsible for my grandkids getting rabies.

      Delete
    3. Hi Kitty, rabies shots protocol see here http://ottawavalleydogwhisperer.ca/is-your-dog-or-cat-over-vaccinated-vaccines-and-vaccinations-risks-costs-alternatives/

      Delete
    4. I have had my dogs one a 5lb chihuahua and the other a 35lb Whippet mix on pure garlic spray for over 5 years. No ill effects and healthy dogs without fleas or ticks. Now with further research I am going to change to fresh garlic.

      Delete
  5. I have 3 mini dachshunds between 7 and 12lbs and was wondering how much to give them? I have heard this before and would like to incorporate it into their diet. Also does this take the place of heart worm medicine also.

    Thanks you.
    Laurie

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Laurie,

      This article will provide you with information on preparation and dosage for garlic...

      http://ottawavalleydogwhisperer.blogspot.ca/2012/06/garlic-for-dogs-health-benefits.html

      For information on heart worm medicine , replacement etc read this article http://ottawavalleydogwhisperer.blogspot.ca/2013/03/does-your-dog-really-need-to-be-on.html

      Delete
  6. Am I able to do any mincing/chopping of the garlic ahead of time? My boys are 68 & 72 lbs and chopping 4-5 cloves every morning for the two of them will quickly get tedious, not to mention the smell on my hands on a daily basis. I have a friend who makes her own garlic powder and that's what she uses on her dog food. Would mincing/drying my own garlic still have enough of an effect?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Ashlee,

      Dry powdered garlic does not have the same efficacy as fresh, minced, chopped garlic. Use the fresh garlic. I have 10 dogs to feed so...

      To Cut Down on Preparation Time...
      I chop (the finer the better) enough of the foodstuff in the food processor to last several days to a week;
      Then I put the chopped food in containers - plastic (BPA free) or glass;
      I leave the appropriate sized measuring spoon in the container – this little convenience makes it faster to prepare the meal at feeding time.

      Delete
    2. I'm confused, are you saying you chop up enough garlic for several days to a week? I thought I read after an hour it lost it's benefits.

      Delete
    3. Melissa, follow the directions I provide in the article above. I don't normally pr-prepare garlic - I chop/mince garlic about 10 minutes prior to use in order to obtain optimal health benefits.

      Delete
  7. can you use the premade minced garlic tubes that you can buy in grocery stores?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi John, for efficacy I recommend fresh garlic.

      Delete
  8. I read this article and think it's a great idea. I minced the garlic and tried to give it to my dog. He would not have it. I tried by itself, mixed with other things, even his favorite thing - peanut butter, and he turns his head, won't open his mouth and if I get some in there he spits it out. I did let it sit for 15 minutes and I could tell it was really strong smelling.... and as soon as I started coming his way with it, he went the other way. Any suggestions?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Not all garlic has the same taste - there are some varieties of garlic that are very mild, others that are very hot. Much of the garlic found in grocery stores (and other large retail outlets like Walmart) in Canada and the US is from China. The mass produced, mass distributed garlic coming our of China is a variety of garlic that is very hot tasting.

      Go to a natural or health food store, farmers market of local farmer and see if they sell a milder, and if possible organic garlic. Then try giving this milder garlic to your dog.

      In addition - if all you can find is the hotter varieties of garlic or if he still does not like the milder garlic try drizzling the garlic (or mixing in)with some local, unpasterized raw honey. This type of honey is not only loved by dogs, it is like Garlic - chock full of health benefits. Read up about some of the health benefits, daily dosage, cautions for raw unpasturized honey here (don't give your dog the type of honey that has been pasturized...i.e. the honey typically sold in large grocery stores)... http://ottawavalleydogwhisperer.blogspot.ca/2013/04/diy-natural-herbal-treatments-for-dogs.html

      Delete
  9. what about garloc tablets bought at the haelth food store

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The proper dosage would be difficult to ascertain. As well most supplements are full of fillers and toxins. Fresh garlic is the only form I recommend.

      Delete
  10. I've been putting about 2 cloves of garlic in my dogs home cooked food. I make enough for about 3 days shared between two chihuahuas. I've never had a flea on them, but my cats are infested! Weird.

    ReplyDelete
  11. Can/should it be ok to boil garlic before for a stronger solution?

    Cheers

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Garlic can be boiled/cooked - as an example it is used in this recipe http://ottawavalleydogwhisperer.blogspot.ca/2012/06/home-made-diy-dog-food-recipes-grain.html ... BUT you still should remain within the recommended daily dosage.

      If you are looking for a stronger concentration as you want to use garlic as a natural dewormer or insect repellant I would recommend that you add fresh garlic to the daily diet in the recommended dosage and then select from the many options offered in my series of articles on 'INSECTS & PARASITES, prevention, treatment,remedy - you can see a listing of the articles by going to this page http://ottawavalleydogwhisperer.blogspot.ca/p/index-of-articles.html

      Delete
  12. Hi Karen,

    I noticed you mentioned do not give garlic to puppies 6 months or younger. Can you please give more details on this...

    We have a 5 month old GS and when we picked her up I asked the breeder what he used to control fleas. He said to give her 1 garlic clove and mix it with 2 slightly hard boiled eggs every 20 days. The other day I gave her 1 clove thinly sliced and mixed it with 2 eggs. She ate it, but later threw some of it up.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Sigh, so many breeders give out really bad advice.

      1 garlic clove given every 20 days would not build enough sulpher in the dog's system to repel fleas;

      Garlic is a very potent herb and for younger puppies could cause some internal upset if ingested at a very young age.

      I am going to give you a whole series of articles that will provide you with natural ingested and topical options/alternatives that you can use to naturally repeal fleas. You can use the garlic for external application in the recipes I will provide you (in the articles) on your puppy.

      By the time she is 11 to 12 months of age you can start adding garlic to her daily diet.

      The following is an extract from the index page of my blog site...you will find a catalog of articles on psychology/communication, behaviour, nutrition, health care etc. here http://ottawavalleydogwhisperer.blogspot.ca/p/index-of-articles.html

      4.2.2 INSECTS & PARASITES, prevention, treatment,
      remedy

      Flea, Tick, Heartworm, Parasite Prevention for Dogs,

      DIY Natural, Herbal Homeopathic Flea, Tick, Mite, Mosquito Repellent Sprays, Rubs, Dips for Dogs and Cats
      http://ottawavalleydogwhisperer.blogspot.ca/2013/05/diy-natural-herbal-homeopathic-flea_18.html

      DIY Natural, Herbal, Homeopathic Dewormers for Dogs and Cats
      http://ottawavalleydogwhisperer.blogspot.ca/2013/05/diy-natural-herbal-homeopathic.html


      Foods That Help Your Dog, Cat Naturally Repel, Eliminate Infestations of Insects, Parasites
      http://ottawavalleydogwhisperer.blogspot.ca/2013/07/foods-that-help-your-dogcat-naturally.html

      Add DIY Natural Supplements to Your Dog's, Cat's Diet to Protect Against the Toxins, Carcinogens in Conventional Flea, Tick, Heartworm, Parasite Preventatives and Treatments
      http://ottawavalleydogwhisperer.blogspot.ca/2013/05/diy-supplement-your-dogs-cats-diet-to.html

      Cheers, Karen

      Delete
    2. Hi I'm a little confused here. I have a 7 month old pitty/mix and I was planning to start adding the fresh garlic to her food. However in the above reply you said by the time the pup is 11-12 months old you can add it to their daily food. But before you said don't give to pups under 6 months. So can you please clarify for me?

      Thanks,
      Jessica

      Delete
    3. Typically should not be given prior to 6 months of age.

      Delete
  13. Hello Dog Whisperer..

    Great information!! The most detailed I have found to date.. Thank you for that!

    Quick question on Garlic.. I thought you weren't suppose to cook the raw/fresh garlic.. is this incorrect and you can cook it?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Debbie, when cooked garlic is more for taste, when consumed in its fresh form its beneficial properties are at their best. I give it to my dogs in its fresh form.

      Cheers, Karen

      Delete
  14. My Pom, Molly who is 8 years old, just diagnosed with Lyme Disease. A blood and Urine test were taken. We live in Vermont, #2 highest state with Lyme in dogs"( She had frontline on but anyway. They have her on an antibiotic, (Doc) I have cried a river and I am having nightmares that she passes.. Is there anything you know of that may help?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Kathy,

      You have to boost his immune system...

      If he is on processed dog kibble get him off of it ASAP and switch to my homemade dog food recipe http://ottawavalleydogwhisperer.blogspot.ca/2012/06/home-made-diy-dog-food-recipes-grain.html.

      In addition to the turmeric in my dog food recipe add 1/4 tsp of additional turmeric to every meal along with coconut oil. You will find articles on both on my blog site.

      Norwegian Kelp 1/4 tsp per day

      Raw unpasturized honey 1/4 tsp per every 10lbs of body weight

      Norwegian cod liver oil - 1/2 tsp/day

      Plain all natural yogurt or kefir - read my article on dairy products to understand how to choose a good product and for dosage

      Herb - Cat's Claw (for dosage see the table at the bottom of my articles on herbs good for dogs, bad for dogs)

      Rooibos tea (see my article)

      Papaya fresh minced 1 tbs with every meal

      Garlic as per the article above

      This WILL help him! Cheers, Karen

      Delete
  15. I have a 6 month old French Bulldog, I was wondering about the garlic as he is on coconut oil, kefir, yoghurt, fruits and veggies everything haha but with the pumpkin seeds for the deworming I have noticed he was scratching his butt on the floor! do you think the garlic is better for that, and he is about 7kg so should I give him only HALF a tsp everyday for how long or is it always?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. As he is only 6 months of age it would be best to cut the garlic dosage in half. You could also use the Diatomaceous Earth (DE).

      Garlic can be used as part of a regular daily diet. All of my dogs get garlic daily.

      Cheers, Karen

      Delete
  16. Thank u for this detailed information =) is very kind of u to have this site where we can search for answers for our infinite questions on how to raise our dogs the best way. =D I've been giving my GSD female dog with more than 2 cloves of garlic a day mixed with her smashed game bone and meat, and her high standard comercial food. At first I could hear her burps and stuf, but as for now I know she has no allergies any more, and her teeth are white and her fur smells great.
    I heard someone saying that garlic was toxic and i just couldn't believe it... I got scared, couse my dog is pregnant and I, insted of lowering tha dosage I increased it!
    Now I have much more info on how feed her rigth, and garlic is definetly on the menu!!

    ReplyDelete
  17. Hi Karen, thank you for the great info! I have a 2 year old Doberman that just went through a surgery to remove a malignant sarcoma. The wound is a little infected so I am trying garlic but, the vet is suggesting we also do radiation therapy because the margin. We're narrow on the results from the lab for the sarcoma removed. Any suggestions? Thank you so much for your help!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Sara - garlic alone is not a sufficient intervention. The infection should can be addressed via natural topical and ingestion treatment. Garlic alone is not sufficient. Organic raw unpasturized honey can be used topically on the wound to fight the infection.

      I would recommend that her diet be looked at in detail to fight off infection, speed healing and boost her overall immune system.

      Cheers, Karen

      Delete
  18. hi love your site! can i give my dogs the green leaves from the garlic? i am growing some as an experiment and i wanted to know if the leaves from it are safe. thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Ericka, yes you can use the garlic scapes as well as the bulb - however....
      The scapes should be prepared for use in the same manner as the garlic bulb and the dosage is also the same and must not be exceeded.

      Cheers, Karen

      Delete
    2. thanks! i prechopped them up and put them in the fridge. also earlier you mentioned to another comment about chopping up a batch of the cloves and putting them in the fridge for later use, i my self have 3 dogs 3 different sizes. could i put water in with the chopped garlic? i was thinking it might help preserve the properties of it instead of it drying it out. thanks again!

      Delete
    3. While you could pre-chop the garlic, as noted in the article above - once the garlic is bruised, crushed, sliced, chopped or minced you only have an hour until the beneficial properties begin to degrade. Whole, intact peeled garlic cloves can be kept in the refrigerator as is (not in water) for weeks and will stay fresh. Best to chop, slice, crush etc. only 10 to 15 minutes prior to consumption. Cheers, K

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    4. Hi Karen, May I please know your full name??

      Delete
    5. http://ottawavalleydogwhisperer.blogspot.ca/p/about.html

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  19. I just want to say thank you thank you thank you. I live in South Africa and have been experimenting and making my own dog food for my 2 dog children and your blog have pointed out some of my important mistakes despite my best intensions! Like over fascinations and cooking meat at high heat and including rice. I had to give me puppies flea and worm drugs form the vet as the infestation was severe and as soon as they have settled I will absoluelty use your advise on natural prevention and rather have a few fleas than toxins in their bodies. It is very difficult to find trust worthy information so thank you so much for your blog with all its free advice that as a great lover of my dogs to, simply makes sense. THANK YOU. There is so much mis-information and fear spread. Simone

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  20. Hi, my dog was diagnosed with Parvo 2 days ago. He already had received his shot before he was diagnosed. I do not have the 800$ required for the treatment. He has only puked (white foam) twice since he first got sick and has no blood in his poop. I have been giving him Pedialyte every 30 mins. Yesterday, he seemed to be as if he was not sick at all and he ate up all the chicken and rice with a clove of garlic that I prepared for him. He was even drinking water on his own and running around. Today, he seems to not have the same energy. A lot of people say that most dogs do not survive Parvo but I refuse to think in that sense. Rocky is a pitbull, 13 wks old and weighs 27lbs. If you have any info at your disposal that will help get him through to recovery I would gladly appreciate it. -Abrielle

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Small dog about 4 kilos (about 8.5 to 9 lbs) mix 2 tsps pure calcium ascorbate powder in filtered water – give orally every hour for 4 repeats. If you cant find any use lemon - read my article on lemon.

      Plus

      Medi-honey - read my article on honey (you can't use regular honey!)

      Slippery Elm - read my article

      Ginger - read my article

      Bone broth - read my article

      Get him on this now or he will die.

      Delete
  21. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Eugenia - successful support cannot be achieved by adding a few items to your Pittie's diet - a properly designed holistic approach is required - http://ottawavalleydogwhisperer.ca/diet-nutrition-wellness-plans/ Cheers, Karen

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  22. Awesome blog!
    Cheers from Portugal!

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  23. If I buy the all natural, no fillers garlic capsules what would be the recommended doseage for dogs weighing approx; 20 lbs and 95lbs;? I dont want to use the chemical stuff on them but I work 2 jobs and just honestly have the time or organizatuin to make my own. there are all natural capsules on the market but they com in many different strengths, so other than fresh garlic what doseage would you recommend base on weight? thank you very much, you clearly care a great deal about animals!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Garlic capsules - even the most expensive are useless

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  24. I was wondering if I could use crushed garlic in a few inches of water for a foot/paw bath. My 8 year old Beagle is allergic to chicken and 2 months ago she snatched some from my other dog's plate. Since then, her paws have become so swelled and red that she has been having trouble walking on them. The Vet said it was allergies and wanted to give her a cortisone shot but I refused. He also wanted to send me to an allergy specialist to see about using Atopica. which I will not do. Her paws obviously have the smell and look of yeast infection. I have used many things on the advise of a naturopathic doctor and a homeopathic vet, including DerMagic lotion, a homeopathic yeast ointment, witch hazel with baking soda spray, bathing in Zymox shampoo and rinse, etc., and am currently using Zymox topical spray with hydrocortisone. Nothing has helped her paws in the least. She is so miserable and I am desperate to find a cure. I would have used honey from the start, but she just licks it right off. I home cook for my 2 dogs and we have just begun the NAET allergy elimination program. I need to find my poor baby some relief quickly. Can you advise, please. Thank you so much.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Ruth, unfortunately there are a lot of veterinarians and 'specialists' out there that truly do not know what they are doing.

      DerMagic lotion has some very nice ingredients for soothing minor conditions such as a bug bite - it does not contain any ingredients that can deal with more serious conditions. It is mostly aloe and oils - with a little rosemary.

      Zymox contains known toxins and carcinogens
      (Decyl Glucoside, Lauryl Glucoside, Cocamidopropyl Betaine) you can read more about that here http://ottawavalleydogwhisperer.blogspot.ca/2012/07/dog-and-pet-shampoo-unsafe-harmful.html

      All of the other topicals that were suggested to you were inappropriate and to be honest there is no topical application on its own that can resolve this.

      I deal with many cases such as yours on a weekly basis. I did a diet nutrition wellness plan for a client with a beagle 2 weeks ago - the beagle had swollen, bleeding paws and all-over body yeast infection. No testing for allergies required, no elimination diet required. I deal with mild to very severe cases - an elimination diet is only required in a very small percentage of the cases.

      The condition once in its advanced stages must be addressed thoroughly - an elimination diet on its own cannot do this - natural supplementation to help the body clear and re-balance is an immediate necessity. If this is not done properly topical treatment will not resolve the problem.

      Paw soaks can be found here http://ottawavalleydogwhisperer.blogspot.ca/2012/04/natural-remedies-for-dogs-cats-with.html

      If you decide you would like proper support on this to get the current discomfort treated and a proper approach designed to support ongoing health and avoidance of future infections I would be happy to do a detailed diet nutrition wellness plan for you via the service I offer.





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  25. What about the Springtime Inc Bug Off garlic pills??

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Springtime Inc Bug Off garlic pills fall into the same class as any processed garlic - ineffective and with little to no health benefit.

      Delete
  26. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. You need to re- read the article as each question you asked is answered in the article...

      Delete
    2. I did. It only says to chop it 10 minutes before meal time. .. but later in a comment you say that you chop up enough for a week and store in containers... I'm confused. Wouldn't it lose its medicinal properties according to the article?

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    3. The comments note that yes you could store chopped garlic in the refrigerator BUT the beneficial properties dissipate - as noted in the article and in some of the comments - dissipation occurs an hour after preparation - so there is NO VALUE remaining after an hour.

      Delete
  27. Could you tell me what type of organic garlic you use on your dogs, please? Thank you

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    Replies
    1. You can use various types of organic garlic none are 'bad'- garlic comes in mild, medium to hot tasting garlic - stick to a mild to medium organic garlic.

      Delete
  28. Hi would just like to say thank you for all this information it has been a big help, three bulbs just bought to start today with my five lovelys. Hopefully my fussy gsd will benifit.
    Thanks again
    Pol from England

    ReplyDelete
  29. Hi,

    I'm a bit confused by this: "Fresh always refrigerated preserved garlic". I make a mixture as follows:

    I blend organic garlic with olive oil so it is in a form of spreadable paste. I keep that in a jar in a fridge and use it for dogs and cooking. Is that ok?

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  30. All questions and answers so interesting! Impressive Karen :) P.S - I'm from the Ottawa Valley as well.

    ReplyDelete
  31. I feed my dogs twice a day, do I give them garlic at both feedings or just once a day? thanks

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  32. I really appreciate your information about garlic, thank you. Since yesterday my little Papillon Donald has developed a very swollen cheek. I will treat him with some garlic and colloidal silver, the last thing I want to do is take him to the Vet who will no doubt try to pump him full of chemicals!

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  33. I am so glad this is still up and I found my way to it. "The Girls" are looking at another summer of itching and this will help.
    Thank you,
    Lyn

    ReplyDelete
  34. Question my 9 year old chihuahua tested positive for heartworms will the garlic help get rid of them ? I really don't want to do the "fast kill" treatment as I see it more damaging

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hi Janet, garlic will not kill-off a heartworm infestation. I do natural heartworm treatment plans for heartworm positive dogs - if you would like to become a client you can choose to get in touch with me.

      Delete
  35. Thank you Karen for your articles!

    Could you please clarify if it's possible to chop/mince garlic ahead of time and then keep it in the airtight container in the fridge for few days? Will it still be as effective as the freshly chopped one?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. 1 hour after chopping/mincing the healthful properties diminish :>)

      Delete
  36. Karen, I just found your site and it's incredible wealth of information. I would like to thank you for your obvious hard work, dedication to, and deep love for dogs and other animals. We lost our sweet Aussie in 2009, and since have to not had another dog, until my daughter gave my husband his Chihuahua/JRT mix puppy. She took his sister, but soon moved back in with us. So now we have them both! What a pair! They are nearly six months old, and I simply hate the idea they would have to consume anti-flea chemicals their entire lives. We live in Florida, so.... I had used garlic successfully with our Aussie to ward off fleas and ticks but stopped when I read that garlic was bad for dogs. I have felt guilty for years thinking that giving her garlic (one minced clove per day) had shortened her life or caused her to suffer in any way. That is, until now. I want to thank you because you have sliced through the confusion and misinformation, and brought good, well supported evidence to light. It brought tears to my eyes to at last understand that I did not hurt my good girl by trying to keep some of those artificial and corrosive materials out of her body. So thank you for that, and thank you again. Because I now have two more little dear ones to care for. Your site is already in my favorites, an enduring reference source to keep them healthy, strong, and bright throughout their lives. My goodness Karen. I hope you understand how important your work is to us all.

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  37. Appreciate the recommendation. Will try it out.

    ReplyDelete

Post a Comment

Important Note

1.0 Use of Foods, Herbs, Alternative Medicines:

Safe use of items and protocols in the article above, is your sole responsibility.

Foods, herbs and alternative medicines have health issue, condition and conventional drug interactions. Safe use of all substances and protocol are your responsibility.

Before you use any substance or protocol do your research. Check for cautions, contradictions, interactions and side effects. Do not use substances or protocols not suitable to your animal's individual circumstances.

If your animal has an underlying condition substances and protocols may conflict.

2.0 Definition of Holistic…

Food, herbs, alternative medicines are NOT ‘holistic’ they are a substance and MAY, or may NOT be ‘NATURAL’.

If you use a ‘natural’ substance (ie. an herb) you are using a natural substance, not a holistic substance.

Holistic is not defined by use of one or several substances. Holistic is an approach.

Definition of “holistic” from the Cambridge Advanced Learner's Dictionary & Thesaurus © Cambridge University Press

Adjective

"relating to the whole of something or to the total system instead of just to its parts"

"Holistic medicine attempts to treat the whole person, including mind and body, not just the injury or disease."

Holistic is a way of approaching life, and within that health, and well-being.

3.0 Expectation a natural substance remedies a health or behavioral situation.

A natural substance used to treat symptoms. But, if factors causing the underlying issue remain you do not have a remedy.

Remedy requires a comprehensive approach. It is necessary to identify root cause. Remove items that trigger, cause or otherwise contribute to issues. Holistic approach includes design, implementation to treat, remedy and maintain long-term health.

4.0 Leave a Comment

I review all comments and publish those deemed appropriate for this site.

I answer questions deemed appropriate when I have time to do so.

Karen Rosenfeld
Holistic Diet Nutrition Wellness Practitioner – Dogs and Cats
Holistic Behaviorist - Dogs
Ottawa Valley Dog Whisperer


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