The Health Benefits of Milk Thistle for Dogs by David Lakins

One of the most popular herbal medicines for dogs is milk thistle. This article covers everything a dog owner needs to know about the properties of milk thistle, including how effective it is, how safe it is, and how it should be administered to pets.

As the name suggests, milk thistle derives from a flowering thistle, which is found in Southern Europe, North Africa and parts of the Middle East. The plant is recognisable by the bands of white on its leaves, which is the reason why it is commonly known as milk thistle.

The health benefits that can be derived from the thistle have long been known, though they have not been properly understood until recently. Ancient peoples noted the positive effects it had on the liver, and its usefulness as a treatment for hepatitis.

The active ingredient is called silymarin. It has been studied by doctors and veterinary health experts across the world, who confirmed that it can be an effective treatment for both humans and animals alike.

Liver Conditions

Liver conditions are among the most common serious ailments affecting canines, and are responsible for as much as 12% of deaths of pet dogs. Some dogs are particularly prone to liver problems, and these include lots of larger breeds like Dalmatians, Labradors, Great Danes, Dobermans, as well as some smaller ones like Cocker Spaniels. Cross breeds tend to be less affected by liver issues, thanks to their larger gene pool.

Silymarin is considered one of the most powerful substances for treating dogs with liver conditions. It can be given to dogs who are suffering from a number of ailments such as a fatty liver, hepatitis, liver tumours and liver disease. It works by attacking harmful free radicals and changing them into less damaging compounds, thus reducing the degradation they cause to cells. It also stimulates cell reproduction, which aids recovery from liver problems.

Side Effects

Part of the reason milk thistle is so widely used is that it is considered very safe for dogs. Animals with advanced liver disease can be given very high doses without being in danger of major side effects. Owners should nevertheless look out for symptoms such as gas and diarrhoea, because if their dog exhibits these then it may be a signal that the dosage of milk thistle needs to be reduced a little.

The one thing that dog owners are strongly advised not to do is giving milk thistle to healthy dogs as a supplement. Some studies have shown that if given over long periods of time, it may start to impair the natural function of the liver.

It is also considered best practice not to give silymarin to pregnant dogs. Medical research is currently scarce in this area, so most vets tend to urge on the side of caution and advise dog owners not to give it during pregnancy.

Overall though, milk thistle is a remarkably safe and effective treatment for dogs, and is often recommended by vets as an alternative to drug-based medicines. If you would like to know more about milk thistle, consult your vet and they should be able to provide you with some useful information and advice.

Milk Thistle tablets are one of the many herbal pet medicines supplied by Dorwest Herbs, all made using scientific testing methods and quality ingredients.

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