Herbs have become a popular means of attaining quality health in recent times, and their benefits also extend to our K9’s. Many dog-safe herbs can be used to treat various dog health problems, with some suitable for regular use while others are to be used only when needed. Here is a list of beneficial herbs for better Malinois health.
Dandelion
The leaves of the dandelion plant are densely packed with vitamin A and the root is rich in inulin, a compound that promotes the growth of beneficial microbes in the GIT. Dandelion is also rich in vitamins C, E, and K, as well as fiber, calcium, folate, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, silicon, and zinc.
Dandelion enhances tooth enamel, supports teeth and bone health, promotes liver function, improves cardiovascular health and acts as a blood booster. It’s nutritious, diuretic, and good for the liver.
If your Malinois suffers from digestive issues. Dandelion can help. The flower part of the dandelion is great for its antioxidant properties immune-boosting effects.
Ginger
Ginger is one of the best herbs for combating pain and nausea. It provides relief for stomach aches and intestinal gas and functions as a digestive tonic. It can also help to expel worms and increases the release of digestive juices. Ginger also promotes blood circulation, reduction of inflammation. However, ginger should be mixed in with food in low amounts.
Hawthorn
The leaves and berries produced by the hawthorn tree can be fed to your Malinois for enhanced heart function. It is a powerful antioxidant which can help promote blood circulation, especially for older dogs or working dogs that are constantly under stressful conditions.
Parsley
This herb is a popular and highly concentrated food source. Parsley is densely packed with vitamins A, C, and K, iron, folate, and a host of minerals and volatile oils such as myristin, which is believed to prevent tumor formation. Parsley is also rich in histidine, which is an amino acid that also has tumor-inhibiting properties. Parsley can help manage arthritis in Mals, and can also be helpful in preventing cancer and urinary tract infections in pups. But the herb should only be fed to Mals in small quantities and make sure to avoid feeding K9’s the seed because it can be toxic to them.
Hemp
Hemp, the popularly controversial herb is also safe for Mals. Hemp has anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties and has a calming and soothing effect. It is especially good for older Mals.
Oregano
Oregano is also a dog-safe herb that is rich in fiber, vitamins A, C, K, and calcium, iron, manganese, and omega-3 fatty acids. The herb is also a source of volatile oils carvacrol and thymol, both antibacterial compounds. Oregano helps to relieve pain and soothes stomach upset in K9’s.
Slippery Elm
This herb is good for puppies, kittens, as well as weak or old cats and K9’s. It is a source of A, B, C, and K, calcium, magnesium, and sodium. It is useful for healing inflamed tissues and provides relief for dysentery, constipation, diarrhea, ulcers, colitis, and other stomach disorders. It can be applied externally to wounds, insect bites, rashes, and burns, and internally for coughing, vomiting, lungs, bowel, and stomach upset.
Don’t Fear Herbs
Many people become apprehensive when they are told to feed their Belgian Malinois herbs. Indeed, their fears are justified because a lot of herbs are potentially toxic to dogs. However, there are a plethora of K9-safe herbs that can be used to improve the health of our animals. The critical factor when feeding herbs to Mals is to strictly adhere to the right amount to prevent any side effects.