8 Natural Home Remedies for Common Dog Conditions

Are you looking for natural remedies for your dog? Dog owners are always looking for ways to help their pets feel better and get back on their paws. Sometimes the idea of putting our pups on heavy medications for seemingly common canine ailments can feel unnecessary both for your dog’s wellbeing and your bank account. Vet costs for appointments can add up fast, as can the price of any prescribed treatments. Often, common. dog health issues, such as itchy skin and bug bites, can be addressed easily at home with natural remedies and holistic medicine. Let’s look at 8 of the most common remedies that work for issues that dogs experience most during their life.

What are natural remedies for dogs?

One day, you notice that your dog is acting differently. He is eating less than usual, and he’s not his usually energetic self. Even mild symptoms could be a sign of something more serious going on. What should you do? First, contact your veterinarian as soon as possible to discuss the situation. If the vet feels that you can address the issue at home, they may suggest some natural remedies or home treatment for your pup.

A natural home remedy is a traditional medicine used for medical purposes, such as therapeutic or preventive functions. The natural ingredients can come from plant material and, in some cases, even minerals with the potential to provide relief from pain and discomfort.

Always use veterinarian-approved natural remedies, so you never treat your dog with anything dangerous or deadly. Most of these remedies are generally safe, but you should speak with your veterinarian before giving them to your dog.

8 Natural Remedies for Dogs

1. Calendula herb for itchy, dry skin

Calendula is a common herb used to relieve irritation from environmental allergies, food allergies from a pup’s diet, or over-scratched areas of skin in dogs. This herb possesses antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that help with any itching your pup might be experiencing, including atopic dermatitis.

This herb is important not only for relieving your dog’s symptoms and skin condition, but also because calendula offers other benefits. It promotes healing for inflamed areas, hot spots, and open wounds faster by fighting and preventing bacterial infections. Some pup parents have found this herb a better option than steroids for their dog’s allergies.

2. Plain yogurt for stomach upset

Probiotics are live acidophilus found in plain yogurt, which helps to keep your pet’s digestive system healthy. They also work as a preventative measure for yeast infections and can be especially helpful if your dog has a sensitive stomach. However, some dogs suffer from lactose intolerance, so reach out for veterinary advice before using yogurt with your pup.

3. Apple cider vinegar for ear treatment

Apple cider vinegar can be helpful for your pup if he suffers from itchy ears or has long floppy ears that capture moisture and allow for harmful bacteria growth. A solution of half ACV and purified water makes an ideal ear cleaner. Soak a cotton ball in this mixture, then gently wipe out the ear cavities until there is no more dirt or debris on the outer surface area. If your dog appears to have an ear infection, don’t put anything on or into your dog’s ears, and contact your veterinarian right away.

4. Baking soda for bee stings

A bee sting can be painful for dogs, but there are ways to make the removal process easier. If your pup allows it, try to remove the stinger with the edge of a credit card or ID card. Then apply a poultice consisting of a paste of one teaspoon of baking soda, vinegar, and water. Place the compress over the affected area for roughly 10 minutes, then rinse.

For a severe allergic reaction to bee stings, immediately contact your veterinarian or the nearest emergency clinic.

5. Crisco vegetable oil for sticks, twigs, and burrs

If your dog enjoys the great outdoors, then there’s a good chance that he will pick up burrs on hikes. Some burrs catch in the fur and quickly become entangled; even worse, burrs sometimes rub against the skin.

Remove these annoying burrs and small sticks by first putting on gloves to protect yourself from being pricked by the burrs. Next, slather the gloves in Crisco oil (or other vegetable cooking oil). This will make prying out those firmly stuck objects much easier. Make sure to wash your dog off afterward, so the oily grease doesn’t end up on your floor or couch.

6. Natural oils for cracked and dry paw pads

Dogs can suffer from cracked paws, especially during hot summers and cold winters. Hot, hard pavement and cold, icy roads pose a risk to your dog’s foot pads. These conditions can cause cracking when a dog walks frequently on pavement or concrete sidewalks with no cushioning underneath their feet. To prevent and treat cracked and dry paws, use coconut oil and vitamin E oil. These natural remedies work wonders in restoring and protecting paw pad skin cells. Simply rub the vitamin E and coconut oil gently into your dogs paw pads and let the oils soak in for soft, cushinony feet.

These same natural options come in handy for a dog’s cracked and dry nose as well. Apply a small amount to the affected area and let it absorb. If you don’t see improvement in the first 24-48 hours, seek out veterinary care for your dog. The cracked nose may be a sign of a larger health issue.

7. Turmeric and yucca for management of arthritis pain

With a name that translates to “golden yellow color,” turmeric is an ancient spice with many health benefits for your dog. This commonly used kitchen herb can reduce inflammation and help protect against damage in joints due to its high antioxidant content. Give your pet 0.5-1 teaspoon of ground powder per day or about 15 mg based on their weight.

Another natural remedy for arthritis pain is yucca. It contains compounds that relieve pain, promote the passage of nutrients through the digestive tract, and are rich in vitamins A through F.

Mix the yucca root powder into your pet’s food slowly over two weeks to a dose of 1/4 teaspoon for every 25lbs. of your pet’s body weight. Remember to check with your vet to make sure you are giving your pup the right amount of powder.

8. Lavender oil for minor cuts and sores

Lavender oil is a popular essential oil that may benefit your pets. Consider using it for your dog’s skin sores or cuts on his body, as lavender’s potent healing property will help clean wounds and relieve pain. At the same time, its antimicrobial and antibacterial properties keep bacteria from causing infection.

With lavender oil, apply topically and directly onto these minor wounds but use roughly one drop per affected area. Using too much lavender may further irritate your pup’s injured skin.

BONUS REMEDY – Calming Anxious Dogs

Does your dog suffer from separation anxiety? Maybe they get anxious when going on car rides. While medications are often prescribed to treat anxiety in dogs, there are natural ways you can reduce their anxiety.

Regular exercise is very beneficial to dogs with anxiety. In fact, some dogs may become anxious simply because they are not getting enough physical exercise each day. Be sure to take your dog on at least one walk per day.

Mental stimulation is another incredibly effective way to beat anxiety in dogs. It is common for bored dogs to develop behavioral issues. Stimulate their mind by teaching them a new trick or getting them a toy that can keep them busy for hours.

And finally, music is great at calming people and pets! In fact, a 2017 study by the Scottish SPCA at the University of Glasgow showed that the right kind of music can decrease the signs of anxiety in dogs. So what’s the “right” kind of music? Well the study found that soft rock and reggae were actually the most effective at calming dogs, but maybe your pet would like classical as well. When you ;eave the home, be sure to leave some music playing on low.

Always check with your veterinarian

Many veterinarians advocate for natural remedies for common dog health conditions, as many of them provide a great solution to but it’s always wise to check with your dog’s vet before giving your pup any at-home treatments. Amounts and dosages vary depending on a dog’s weight, age, breed, and size. As such, obtaining feedback from your vet is crucial to making sure those natural health remedies will actually help your dog feel better.

Alternative therapies and natural home remedies can be costly, so consider a pet insurance plan for your dog. Many policies cover health treatments beyond the traditional and medication-oriented approaches, saving pet owners money and easing their mind about their dog’s health. Pet Insurance Review will find the best plans available for your dog and budget. Get a free pet insurance quote today, and start saving for your pup’s tomorrow.

 

Disclaimer

The information contained on this blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary care. Always consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your pet's health care or treatment plan.

The authors of this blog are not veterinarians and do not claim to be experts in pet health. The information provided here is based on our own experiences and research, as well as information from reputable sources. However, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

We encourage you to do your own research and consult with your veterinarian before making any decisions about your pet's health.