Psyllium is a natural laxative that veterinarians frequently prescribe for dogs. It is known for its use in relieving irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea, and constipation in dogs. Not surprisingly, it is also frequently used by human beings as it is the primary active ingredient in popular over-the-counter digestive health aids like Metamucil.
So the question we have been getting is, can dogs eat psyllium husk powder? Clearly, the answer is yes, dogs can eat psyllium husk powder. But of course, it is most commonly used in a regimented manner for medicinal purposes. So we want to know how much dogs can have, and in what forms? After all, many pet owners have the experience of an animal getting into food or drugs they were not meant to have access to and having too much of it. So let’s cover the subject from all angles.
What is Psyllium Husk Powder?
Psyllium husk powder is derived from the seeds of the ovato plant. The ovato is native to western and southeastern Asia. It is a dense and rich source of natural fiber that works well in humans, dogs, and a number of other higher mammals. Apropos of our topic, psyllium husk powder is a stool softener, which is why it is generally used for conditions related to the bowels. Interestingly, it is also known for its ability to lower blood pressure and stabilize cholesterol levels.
How Much Psyllium Husk Powder Can Dogs Have for Diarrhea?
The general consensus among veterinarians and animal nutritionists is that a dog can have one teaspoon of psyllium husk powder for every five pounds of body weight. There is also something of a controversy among animal health professionals as to whether or not it is more risky for smaller dogs and breeds known to have digestive issues. Our recommendation is if you have a dog with digestive issues, or believe your dog may be at risk for digestive issues, give them ½ a teaspoon for every five pounds of body weight. See if that corrects the issue and monitor the dog over the next 24 hours.
How Much Psyllium Husk Powder Can Dogs Have for Constipation?
The recommended amount will vary from case to case and from one dog to the next. The usual amount recommended by veterinarians is between 6 and 12 ounces. But if you’re asking this question because your dog has never taken psyllium husk before, or if you think your dog may have a tendency for bowel issues, use our recommended reduced dosage.
How Much Psyllium Husk Can Dogs Have Per Day?
The usual recommended amount for dogs with persistent or lasting constipation issues is one teaspoon three times each day. Start with the reduced amount, then move up to one teaspoon per five pounds of body weight three times each day. If your dog has no issues, but constipation persists, consider increasing the dosage with the supervision of an animal care expert.
What’s the Best Way to Give Fiber to a Dog?
The best way to get your dog to eat more fiber is to give it to them with their food. Simply mixing the fiber into their normal food should do the trick. If the animal has serious constipation to the point that food cannot be tolerated, then medical intervention is highly recommended. Another option is to give the dog sweet potatoes. Sweet potatoes are not an ideal food for dogs. But if it helps them get through their bowel issues, it might be a good idea.
How Fast Will Psyllium Work for Dogs?
When given at modest dosages, the treatment should begin to work within one to three days. The way to get the most benefit from psyllium husk powder is to give it to your dog regularly over a period of typically five to seven days, to give it a chance to work. If your dog can tolerate it well, you might up the dosage.
Can Psyllium Harden a Dog’s Stool?
Many people assume that psyllium husk powder will fix any bowel issues a dog may have. While it is generally safe and well tolerated, it is usually only prescribed by a veterinarian to harden stool when nothing else has worked. Sometimes it can have the opposite effect than what’s expected, but psyllium is usually for loosening the stool and not hardening it.
How to Stop Diarrhea in Dogs
Diarrhea in dogs will typically be caused by stress, intestinal parasites, or a response to excessive fiber. Consult your veterinarian if your dog has more than one instance of diarrhea within two or three days. Intestinal parasites are not uncommon for dogs and must be treated as early as possible. Stress should be remedied by calming the dog and providing safe and loving surroundings. If your dog is having a reaction to fiber, changing his diet is probably the best move.
