Reviewed By Joana Garrido DVM
Although an ancient medicinal plant, the use of milk thistle remains present in modern times. For dogs, this herb is commonly administered to protect their livers from sustaining accumulative damage resulting from ailments.
Let us explore the potent agents found in milk thistle for dogs and the health benefits they provide. We will also share with you a helpful guideline on how to safely use this herb on an ill dog.
What Gives Milk Thistle for Dogs Its Medicinal Powers?
The milk thistle plant, scientifically known as Silybum marianum, contains an active ingredient called silymarin, which is responsible for its hepatoprotective ability. This compound is composed of three plant chemicals, namely:
- Silychristine
- Silydianin
- Silybin
Out of the three, silybin is considered the most potent liver-protectant agent in the milk thistle plant.
Silymarin naturally occurs on the leaves, fruits, and seeds of the milk thistle plant. However, its highest concentrations are found in the seeds.
Scientific Evidence of Milk Thistle for Dogs as a Hepatoprotective Herb
In a medical review, it was highlighted that milk thistle was used as a natural remedy for liver and gall bladder problems in humans for over two thousand years.
Milk thistle has antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that support the liver. They aid in the removal of toxins and free radicals, which contribute to liver damage and stimulate the growth of new liver cells.
Due to these alleged health benefits, some pawrents advocate for the use of this herb on dogs with liver disease. The veterinary sphere has also taken an interest in its potential medicinal properties and a few studies were conducted.
The results were as follows:
- In a 2016 study, researchers observed that supplementation of silybin from milk thistle and S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine (SAMe) in dogs with endotoxemia greatly reduced the activity of liver enzymes.
- A 2020 observational research pointed out that dietary supplementation of silybin derived from milk thistle also resulted in the notable diminishing of liver enzyme activity in dogs with liver dysfunctions.
- According to another 2020 study, silymarin provided red blood cell protection to the canine sepsis model. It led to better oxygen delivery and blood flow restoration, which helped minimize liver and heart injury.
As of today, research about the health benefits of milk thistle for dogs remains limited. More studies and clinical trials must be conducted to know the full potential of this herb’s medicinal ability.
In some cases, milk thistle for dogs is prescribed by some veterinarians as a supportive treatment to be used concurrently with traditional medications for dogs with chronic liver disorders.
Potential Side Effects and Contraindications of Milk Thistle for Dogs
Learning the possible adverse reactions and risks of milk thistle for dogs will help you take caution when using this herb on your dog. Here is what you should know:
1. Milk Thistle for Dogs Has a Low Toxicity Rate.
Milk thistle is well-tolerated by the canine body. Experts have determined that silymarin has a maximum tolerated dose of 300 milligrams per 2 pounds in dogs.
The 50% lethal dose (LD50) of silymarin for them is 140 milligrams per 2 pounds intravenously and 10 grams per 2 pounds orally. Going beyond the LD50 may result in fatality potentially caused by cardiac health complications.
2. Milk Thistle for Dogs May Cause Stomach Upset.
In humans, this herb can cause stomach upset and diarrhea when ingested. These side effects may occur in dogs too, especially those with sensitive stomachs.
Thus, avoid giving milk thistle to pooches with an empty stomach to prevent gastric distress.
3. Milk Thistle for Dogs Should Be Used on Pregnant Pets with Caution.
Studies about the effect of milk thistle on pregnant dogs are limited. There is no definitive guarantee that this herb is safe for them and their unborn puppies. We recommend consulting a veterinarian first before using it on an expecting dog.
4. Milk Thistle for Dogs May Interact with Certain Drugs.
As with any herbal medicine, be cautious when administering milk thistle for dogs along with medications, particularly:
- Metronidazole
- Antiviral drugs
- Medications are metabolized in the liver.
Keep in mind that vitamins, herbal therapies, and other supplements for dogs may interact with milk thistle for dogs too.
Always inform the veterinarian about any pre-existing medications your dog is taking so they can determine if these drugs might interact with this herb.
What Is the Ideal Dosage of Milk Thistle for Dogs?
The silymarin content of milk thistle extracts ranges from 65% to 50%. Thus, the recommended dose may vary from brand to brand.
However, generally, the ideal milk thistle dosage for dogs is:
- Powder: 2 to 5 milligrams per pound of body weight
- Liquid: 1 teaspoon for every 20 pounds of body weight
For better absorption, divide the dosage into 3 to 4 small portions instead of administering one large dose. Administer milk thistle for dogs at least 2 to 3 times a day.
How to Administer Milk Thistle for Dogs?
Milk thistle for dogs is given orally, ideally with food to prevent gastrointestinal upset.
With the veterinarian’s approval, consider combining silymarin with phosphatidylcholine. A research has shown that doing so improves the absorption of silymarin from the digestive tract into the body.
The significant effects of milk thistle may take up to a week to manifest. Its positive impact on your dog’s liver is not visible outwardly, so the veterinarian will likely run a few lab tests to gauge the supplement’s effectiveness.
Keep in mind that milk thistle for dogs is a liver protectant, not a cure-all for hepatic diseases. Make sure that your dog gets properly diagnosed and provided with the right medications for his illness.
If Fido’s condition worsens or does not improve, seek the veterinarian’s expertise to help you make appropriate adjustments in your dog’s treatment.
FAQs About Milk Thistle for Dogs
1. What Does Milk Thistle Do to Dogs?
Protecting the liver is what milk thistle primarily does to dogs. This herb detoxifies the organ from harmful toxins and free radicals. Milk thistle for dogs also promotes new liver cell growth, which replaces dead cells resulting from liver damage.
2. Does Milk Thistle Help Dogs’ Kidneys?
There is some evidence that milk thistle prevents kidney failure in dogs experiencing nephrotoxicity. However, more research must be carried out to make sure that this herb is truly effective in managing this type of condition.
3. Is It Safe to Give My Dog Milk Thistle Every Day?
Giving milk thistle to your dog every day is not recommended unless advised by the veterinarian. Daily dosing can potentially hinder proper liver function.
Do not use this herb on your dog for more than 3 to 6 weeks at a time. Always take a 2- to 3-week break before redosing this supplement to him. High doses of silibinin may increase bilirubin levels and liver enzymes.
4. Can I Give My Dog Milk Thistle for Humans?
Milk thistle for humans can be given to dogs, but make sure to check the ingredients list first. Many human-grade supplements contain additives that might be harmful to dogs. Only use 100% organic milk thistle extract without additives on dogs.
Be sure to mind the dosing as well. Human supplements have different recommended dosages compared to pet supplements. Seek the veterinarian’s help to know the appropriate dosage for your dog.
Summary
Milk thistle for dogs has an active ingredient called silymarin, which is renowned for its hepatoprotective abilities. It prevents liver damage by getting rid of bodily toxins and encouraging new liver cell growth.
However, do not solely rely on this herb to resolve liver disease in dogs. Milk thistle for dogs works better when used simultaneously with liver medications than by itself.
Add more useful herbal medicine to your a-paw-thecary by visiting our Supplements section.
