Can Dogs Take Valerian Root Every Day?
Valerian root, derived from the Valeriana officinalis plant, is a well-known herbal remedy praised for its calming properties. Used for centuries in traditional medicine, it is now commonly recommended for dogs experiencing anxiety, restlessness, or sleep difficulties. However, questions remain about long-term, daily use in canine health care.
Understanding How Valerian Root Works
The calming effect of valerian root is largely attributed to its ability to increase the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the dog’s brain. GABA is a neurotransmitter that suppresses excessive neural activity, promoting a sense of calm and reducing anxiety.
Potential Benefits for Dogs
- Reduces anxiety symptoms like barking, pacing, or destructive behaviors.
- Improves sleep quality, useful for dogs with insomnia or trouble settling down.
- Relieves restlessness in hyperactive dogs.
- Acts as a mild muscle relaxant to help with muscle tension.
- Helps during stressful events such as fireworks, thunderstorms, or travel.
- Supports certain seizure-prone dogs under veterinary supervision.
How to Administer Valerian Root
Valerian root comes in various forms including:
- Liquid extract
- Capsules or tablets
- Dried root powder
- Calming treats for dogs
It can be mixed with food, water, or given directly by mouth depending on your pet's preferences and the product's specifications.
General Dosage Guidelines
Dosing must be tailored to your dog’s weight and the product used. Common dosage ranges include:
- Liquid extract: 0.1 to 0.5 ml per 5 kg, once or twice daily
- Capsules/tablets: 50 to 100 mg per 5 kg, once or twice daily
- Dried powder: ~1/4 teaspoon per 5 kg, once or twice daily
- Tinctures: Under 30 lbs: 0.25–0.5 mL; 30–60 lbs: 0.5–1 mL; over 60 lbs: 1–1.5 mL, 1–3 times daily
Start with the lowest recommended dose and closely monitor your dog for side effects.
Safety and Precautions
Though generally safe, valerian root may cause issues when used improperly or for extended durations.
- Not recommended for puppies, pregnant, or lactating dogs unless cleared by a vet.
- Interactions possible with sedatives, anti-epileptics, and anesthetics.
- Possible side effects include drowsiness, digestive upset, unsteadiness, lethargy, or even rare agitation.
- Discontinue use immediately if adverse effects occur and consult your vet.
Is Daily Use Safe?
While valerian root may be administered for short periods, continuous daily use is not typically advised. Over time, the body may develop a tolerance, reducing the herb's effectiveness and increasing the likelihood of side effects. Vets may recommend periodic breaks if daily use is necessary over a longer duration.
Scientific Backing
Despite anecdotal effectiveness, large-scale dog-specific studies are limited. Some research highlights benefits in humans and small animals, but results are inconsistent in canine clinical trials. Recommendations largely stem from veterinary experience and extrapolation from existing data.
Usage Recommendations for Pet Owners
- Consult your vet before starting valerian root supplementation.
- Try using valerian a few days before expected stress like travel or loud events.
- Use valerian as part of a holistic anxiety plan including behavior training and other therapies.
- Monitor closely when combining valerian root with other calming products.
- Avoid long-term daily use unless guided by a veterinarian.
Conclusion
Valerian root can be an effective natural aid for reducing anxiety and improving relaxation in dogs. However, its use should be occasional or cyclic, not prolonged continuously without supervision. Always involve your vet when adding any supplement to your dog's routine to ensure safety and effectiveness.
