Authored by Crystal Crowder in Dogs 
Published on 10-06-2009

Many dog owners find that traditional medications don’t solve their dog’s problems and simply result in high vet bills. Natural methods, such as herbs, can help treat and prevent many common problems. Some vets now recommend a combination of traditional and natural remedies for best results.

Does your dog exhibit signs of anxiety? Anxiety issues include irrational fears, odd behavior when you’re away, or sudden mood changes. Add in small amounts of oat, chamomile and valerian extracts either to food or spray on bedding. Lavender leaves and oil can also be placed on bedding to ease stress. Also note that if you are stressed, you’re dog may be stressed as well.

Infections may be treated by creating a tincture with equal drops of goldenseal and Echinacea. This treatment should be given for two weeks. Afterwards, you may wish to consult a vet if the infection worsens. If your dog recovers after a few days, continue the treatment up to two days after the infection has cleared to prevent a relapse.

Insects, such as mosquitoes and flies bite your dog, which results in itchy whelps and often long scratches where the dog scratches. Place a garlic oil capsule in a piece of ham, hot dog, or in wet food to prevent insect bites. Drops of garlic oil may also be used in place of the capsule in the event your dog eats the food and leaves the capsule.

If your dog is pregnant, or if you’re a breeder, add raspberry leaf extract to food throughout the pregnancy to help tone your dog’s uterus and aid in the healing process after birth. If your dog shows any nausea after adding the extract, cease use immediately. Some dogs are sensitive to certain herbs.

Diarrhea and vomiting are common ailments for dogs, especially after eating something they’re not supposed to. Add powdered elm bark to food or water to help ease upset stomachs. If your dog suffers from car sickness while traveling, elm bark should be used at least one day before the trip to help calm your dog’s stomach.

Bee pollen is one of the most common herbs used for dogs. The recommended dosage is one quarter of a teaspoon per every fifteen pounds. This should be given to your dog two to three times per week. Skip at least one day between doses. Bee pollen is used to help slow the aging process, calm allergies, regulate digestion, and boost the immune system during illnesses.

Other herbal remedies are available to treat digestive problems, arthritis, and other common problems. For more information on using and collecting herbs, please visit The Herbal Encyclopedia.

Most herbal remedies should only be given to your dog if you are absolutely certain about their ailment. Just as with traditional medicine, the wrong herb could worsen the problem. As a general rule, treat your dog’s ailment for two weeks with an herbal remedy and then wait for one week before continuing treatment. This will allow you to see if the herbs are working and prevent your dog from becoming immune to the herbs healing effects.