top of page

Ashwagandha Root for Dogs: Benefits and Usage

  • Kayleigh Adams
  • Apr 2, 2025
  • 2 min read

Updated: Oct 16, 2025

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), a renowned adaptogenic herb in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, offers several potential benefits for dogs when used appropriately. Its adaptogenic properties help the body manage stress and promote overall health.


Here’s a summary of how ashwagandha can support your dog:

1. Stress and Anxiety Relief: Ashwagandha has calming effects, making it helpful for dogs experiencing anxiety, fear, or stress, such as separation anxiety or noise-related phobias (e.g., fireworks or thunderstorms). It can help regulate cortisol (the stress hormone), helping reduce symptoms of chronic stress.

2. Immune System Support: This adaptogen boosts the immune system, supporting dogs with weakened immunity caused by illness, age, or stress.

3. Anti-Inflammatory and Joint Health: Ashwagandha’s natural anti-inflammatory properties make it beneficial for dogs with arthritis, joint pain, or other inflammatory conditions.

4. Improved Energy: It can support energy levels in dogs dealing with fatigue or lethargy, especially in senior or ailing dogs.

5. Hormonal Balance: The herb can help balance hormones and supports endocrine health, which can benefit dogs with thyroid imbalances or adrenal issues.

6. Cognitive Function: Ashwagandha can support brain health and may assist senior dogs with cognitive decline or symptoms of canine dementia (Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome).

7. Heart Health: Its antioxidant properties can help reduce oxidative stress, promoting a healthy heart and overall cardiovascular function.

8. Antioxidant Protection: Rich in antioxidants, ashwagandha combats free radicals, reducing oxidative damage and supporting long-term health.


How to Use Ashwagandha for Dogs

Forms and Dosage's published by The Veterinary Herbal Medicine for small animals:

•Full spectrum extract:

15 mg/kg bodyweight of ashwagandha root extract once daily with food. Look for the manufacturer KSM-66 Ashwagandha®

•Dried herb:

50-125mg/kg bodyweight of ashwagandha root divided twice daily with food (Optimally, three times).

•Decoction:

5-30g of ashwagandha tea/root per cup of hot water, administered at a rate of 1⁄4 -1⁄2 cup per 10kg bodyweight divided daily (optimally, three times).


Precautions and Side Effects

•Side Effects: may cause stomach upset, diarrhoea, or vomiting for sensitive dogs. Start with a low dose and increase gradually.

•Suitability: Avoid using ashwagandha in dogs who are pregnant/nursing and those with autoimmune diseases or those on immunosuppressive medication unless advised by a vet.

•Quality: Use only organic, high-quality ashwagandha free from fillers or contaminants.

•It’s important to take breaks when giving ashwagandha root to your dog to maintain effectiveness and prevent overuse.

Common practice: Give as part of their routine for 6-8 weeks followed by 1-2 weeks off.

We encourage owners to do their own research on products and brands to ensure they’re the right choice for their dog. However, here are a few options you might want to consider:


Full spectrum options:

•Time Health - https://amzn.eu/d/gF6Dngg


Dried herb options:


Decoction options:

root-250gm-2292-p.asp


For further information on the benefits of ashwagandha, have a watch of Dr Karen Becker & Rodney Habib’s live on the benefits of Ashwaghandha root here - https://www.facebook.com/share/v/18GH8bpbyk/?mibextid=wwXIfr


© Written by Kayleigh Adams for NO BULL Just Natural Health for Dogs.



bottom of page