Herbs can do amazing things for dogs — from calming itchy skin and easing joint stiffness to supporting the liver and boosting the immune system. But here's the catch: if you’re treating herbs like a quick fix, there’s a good chance you’re not getting the full benefit.
In the words of canine herbalist Rita Hogan, “Herbs aren’t here to force the body into submission like pharmaceuticals. They’re here to support the body’s ability to heal.”
So… are you using herbs the right way? Let’s find out.
The Myth: Why One Herb Won’t Fix Everything
One of the most common mistakes pet parents make is falling into the “this for that” mindset:
"What’s the best herb for my dog’s arthritis?"
"Which herb should I give for anxiety?"
While these questions come from a good place, they reflect a pharmaceutical mindset — expecting herbs to act like drugs. But herbs work differently. They restore balance, not suppress symptoms.
“Most of our dogs have chronic conditions,” Rita explains. “They didn’t get sick overnight, and they won’t heal overnight either.”
It’s tempting to ask, “What’s the best herb for my dog’s allergies?” But the real question should be: Why does my dog have allergies in the first place?
Instead of treating symptoms, holistic herbalism addresses root causes such as:
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Diet & Gut Health – Poor digestion can lead to chronic inflammation and skin issues.
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Detoxification Support – A sluggish liver can worsen allergy symptoms.
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Energetics & Body Type – Some dogs run warm (high energy, prone to overheating) while others run cool (chilled easily, sluggish metabolism). Choosing the wrong herb can make symptoms worse.
What the Right Way Looks Like 🌱
To use herbs effectively, you need to look at the whole dog — not just the symptom. Here’s what that means:
✅ 1. Understand Your Dog’s Constitution (Energetics)
Is your dog more hot or cold? Do they tend to be anxious or sluggish? Easily irritated or withdrawn?
Rita uses energetics to match the herb to the dog’s underlying state:
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Hot dogs (itchy, inflamed, restless) may benefit from cooling herbs like chamomile or violet.
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Cold dogs (sluggish, nervous, withdrawn) often do better with warming herbs like ashwagandha or ginger.
“Cool dogs don’t need sedatives — they need adaptogens,” says Rita.
✅ 2. Choose Herbs Based on Indications, Not Labels
Instead of asking “What’s the best herb for pain?”, learn about how herbs work and what symptoms they’re best matched to. A well-chosen herb can bring results faster, because it fits your dog’s true needs.
✅ 3. Support the Root Cause
Itchy skin? The real issue might be the liver, gut, or immune system, not just surface irritation. Herbs like nettles, milk thistle, or cleavers may be more helpful long-term than a topical spray.
Rita also reminds us that spay/neuter surgeries, over-vaccination, and processed diets can disrupt your dog’s natural balance, and those imbalances must be addressed holistically.
“We remove 25% of their endocrine system with spay/neuter. That deserves lifelong support.”
7 Top Herbs Every Pet Parent Should Have
Looking for a safe and effective starting point? These seven essential herbs provide a strong foundation for holistic pet health:
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Milk Thistle – Supports liver detox and immune function.
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Blackberry Leaf – A go-to for digestive upset, especially diarrhea.
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Hawthorn – Strengthens the heart and improves circulation.
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Plantain – Soothes skin irritations, allergies, and wounds.
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Calendula – A natural antimicrobial for healing cuts and infections.
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Ashwagandha – A powerful adaptogen for stress and anxiety.
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Nettles – Supports joint health, allergies, and overall vitality.
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Pro Tip: Instead of guessing, blend herbs based on your dog’s specific needs for better results. |
How to Introduce Herbs into Your Dog’s Diet
Using herbs correctly is just as important as choosing the right ones. Here’s how to do it safely:
1. Start slow – Introduce one herb at a time and monitor reactions.
2. Use high-quality herbs – Choose fresh, dried, or tinctured herbs from reputable sources.
3. Mix with food – Some herbs, like olive leaf, can cause nausea if taken on an empty stomach.
4. Adjust dosage – A small dog needs far less than a large dog.
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Note: If using milk thistle for liver support, start with 1/8 tsp per 10 lbs of body weight and mix it into your dog’s food. |
Get Personalized Guidance for Your Dog’s Health!
Herbs aren’t just alternatives, they’re powerful tools for your dog’s long-term wellness. From boosting immunity to easing joint pain and improving digestion, the right herbs can make all the difference.
But it’s not just about using herbs, it’s about choosing the right ones for your dog’s unique needs.
💚 Not sure where to start? Get expert, personalized guidance to find the best natural solutions for your pet. [Book a Consultation →]
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