Ashwagandha For Dogs – Benefits of Ashwagandha In Dog Food

What are the health benefits of dog foods with Ashwagandha?

1. Introduction
   • Importance of a balanced diet for dogs
   • Overview of ashwagandha and its adaptogenic properties
2. Safety and Suitability of Ashwagandha for Dogs
   • Definition of adaptogens and their criteria
   • Confirmation of ashwagandha’s safety for canine use
3. Scientific Reasons to Include Ashwagandha in Your Dog’s Diet
   • Summary of health benefits from recent research studies
4. Recommended Dosages
   • Guidelines on how much ashwagandha to give your dog based on body weight
5. Core Health Benefits of Ashwagandha
   • Immune System Enhancement
     • Role in boosting white blood cell production
     • Impact on overall disease resistance
   • Stress and Anxiety Relief
     • Mechanism of action on stress hormones and neurotransmitters
     • Effects on behaviour and emotional well-being
   • Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
     • Reduction of inflammation markers
     • Improvement in mobility and pain relief
6. Additional Health Advantages of Ashwagandha
   • Energy and Vitality Increase
     • Support for adrenal function and energy regulation
   • Digestive Health Improvement
     • Promotion of gut health and reduction of digestive discomfort
   • Antioxidant and Skin Benefits
     • Protection against oxidative stress
     • Enhancement of skin and coat condition
7. Incorporating Ashwagandha in Dog Diets
   • Practical tips for adding ashwagandha to dog food
   • Precautions and consultation with veterinarians
8. Product Spotlight: Bonza Premium Dog Food
   • Description of Bonza’s vegan and vegetarian formulations
   • Highlight of included adaptogens and their targeted health benefits

As a responsible dog family, you are always looking for ways to ensure the well-being of your dog, the family’s best friend. Providing a balanced and nutritious diet is vital for their overall health and longevity. In recent years, a herb called ashwagandha has gained popularity for its numerous health benefits, not only for humans but also for our canine companions. In this article, we will explore the remarkable health benefits of dog food with ashwagandha and why it can be a valuable addition to your dog’s diet.

Can Dogs Have Ashwagandha? Is Ashwagandha Safe For Dogs?

The short answer is a definite yes. Ashwagandha, is one of the very rare herbs considered an adaptogen. In order to be classified as an adaptogen, a herb or spice must have the four ‘N’s:

• Nourishing – bring nutritive strength
• Normalising – raise what is low and lower what is high (e.g. energy, stress)
• Non-specific – act on multiple parts of the body at the same time
• Non-toxic – be completely safe when used over extended periods of time

Of the 1000’s of plants, herbs, botanicals and fungi on the planet, only 22 are classified as adaptogens. As outlined above, as an adaptogen, Ashwagandha, is non-toxic and safe for dogs, even when given to dogs for lengthy periods.

Discover the 11 Science Informed Reasons to Include Ashwagandha in Your Dog’s Diet.

How Much Ashwagandha Should I Give My Dog?

Most benefits of Ashwagandha for humans are linked to dosages of 225–600 mg per day. Based on body weight you should give your dog between 100-400 mg of Ashwagandha daily.

What Are the Health Benefits of Ashwagandha for Dogs?

Enhanced Immune System

A robust immune system is vital for dogs to fight off infections and diseases. Ashwagandha, when incorporated into their diet, can provide significant support to enhance their immune system. This herb contains bioactive compounds, including withanolides and alkaloids, which have been found to stimulate the production of white blood cells, such as lymphocytes and macrophages. These cells play a crucial role in recognising and eliminating pathogens, thus strengthening the body’s defence mechanism against harmful invaders.

By bolstering the immune system, ashwagandha helps to reduce the risk of common infections, such as respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and gastrointestinal issues. It can also contribute to faster recovery from illnesses and promote overall wellness. A stronger immune system not only improves your dog’s quality of life but also reduces the need for frequent veterinary visits.

Stress and Anxiety Relief

Dogs, like humans, can experience stress and anxiety in various situations. Ashwagandha’s adaptogenic properties make it a valuable tool in managing stress and promoting a sense of calmness in dogs. It works by regulating the production of stress hormones, such as cortisol, and supporting the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).

Including ashwagandha in your dog’s diet can help alleviate separation anxiety, fear of loud noises, and other stress-related behaviours. It promotes a more balanced emotional state, reducing restlessness, nervousness, and excessive barking. Whether your dog experiences anxiety during car rides or becomes agitated during thunderstorms, ashwagandha can provide a natural and holistic solution to help them cope with these situations more effectively.

Research studies have clearly identified the positive role Ashwagandha plays in a reduction in dog’s stress and anxiety.

A 2022 study by Jasleen Kaur et al, Efficacy and Safety of Standardized Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) root extract on reducing stress and anxiety in domestic dogs: A Randomized Controlled Trial, concluded ,Ashwagandha intake was well tolerated in all the dogs with no reported adverse events. In conclusion, the intake of Ashwagandha root extract for 4 weeks was associated with significant reductions in UCCr (urine cortisol to creatine ratio), and signs of fear and anxiety and pain interference.

A review of research on Ashwagandha, ‘Ashwagandha: A Review of Clinical Use and Efficacy‘ by Karin Elgar published in 2021 by the Nutritional Medicine Institute identified the following health benefits of Ashwagandha:

• Reduction in Anxiety and Stress (1, 2, 3, 4)
• Improvement of Athletic Performance (5, 6, 7, 8)
• Improvement of Cognitive Function and Memory (9, 10, 11, 12, 13)
• Positive Impact on Diabetes (14, 15, 16, 17)
• Improvement in Sleep Quality (18, 19, 20)
• Improvement of Male Fertility (21, 22, 23, 24)
• Anti-Ageing Benefits (25, 26)
• Beneficial Effects on Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis (27, 28, 29, 30)
• Therapeutic Effect on Hyperthyroidism (31, 32, 33, 34)

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Inflammation is a common underlying factor in various health conditions that affect dogs, including arthritis, allergies, and digestive disorders. Ashwagandha possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation throughout the body. It inhibits the production of inflammatory molecules and enzymes, such as cytokines and COX-2, which are responsible for triggering and sustaining inflammation. (1, 2)

By incorporating ashwagandha into your dog’s diet, you can help alleviate symptoms associated with inflammation, such as joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. This herb has shown promising results in managing conditions like osteoarthritis, hip dysplasia, and allergies. It can provide relief and improve your dog’s mobility, allowing them to enjoy an active and pain-free life.

Increased Energy and Vitality

Many dog owners seek ways to boost their furry friend’s energy levels and vitality. Ashwagandha has long been recognised for its rejuvenating and revitalising effects on the body, making it a valuable addition to your dog’s diet. It supports the healthy functioning of the adrenal glands, which play a crucial role in regulating energy levels and responding to stress.

By incorporating ashwagandha into their diet, you can help your dog maintain optimal energy levels throughout the day. This is particularly beneficial for active dogs who engage in regular exercise, working dogs, or those recovering from illness or surgery. Ashwagandha’s ability to support adrenal function can contribute to increased stamina, endurance, and overall vitality in your canine companion.

Additional Health Benefits of Ashwagandha for Dogs

In addition to the benefits mentioned above, ashwagandha offers several other health advantages for dogs:

1. Digestive Health: Ashwagandha has been found to support a healthy digestive system by promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and reducing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract. It can aid in relieving digestive issues, such as gas, bloating, and diarrhoea.
2. Antioxidant Protection: The antioxidants present in ashwagandha, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. This antioxidant activity can contribute to overall cellular health and protect against oxidative stress-related damage.
3. Skin and Coat Health: Ashwagandha’s anti-inflammatory properties can also benefit the skin and coat of dogs. It may help alleviate itching, hot spots, and other skin irritations, promoting a healthy and lustrous coat.

Dog food enriched with ashwagandha offers numerous health benefits, including enhanced immune system function, stress and anxiety relief, reduced inflammation, increased energy levels, and additional advantages for digestive health, antioxidant protection, and skin and coat health. While ashwagandha is generally considered safe for dogs, it’s crucial to consult with your veterinarian before introducing any new supplement, or food, into your dog’s diet, especially if they have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications. By providing a balanced diet and incorporating ashwagandha wisely, you can contribute to your dog’s overall health, happiness, and longevity.

Bonza premium vegan and vegetarian dog food includes a number of clinically researched herbs and adaptogens including ashwagandha, Siberian ginseng, Reishi mushroom and Turmeric. Each provides your dog with a range of preventative health benefits aimed at supporting specific areas of your dog’s health and wellbeing.