Ashwagandha for Dogs: What You Need to Know

Pet parents should not casually pick up ashwagandha at the supplement counter to help relieve stress in their dogs. It might be used in select cases, but is best given under veterinary guidance.  

The evidence in dogs is limited. One study of 20 healthy older dogs given ashwagandha showed changes in lab values. Although the research is interesting, the small study can’t be applied to all dogs, and it’s too early to say if actual benefits are likely. 

Ashwagandha is often described as an adaptogen, which is a term used for natural substances that are promoted to help the body handle stress. In people, it has been studied for stress and sleep support, but human findings don’t necessarily carry over to dogs.  

In the dog study, researchers tracked cortisol and recorded blood and antioxidant measurements over 60 days. The results suggest the herb may have biological effects, but researchers weren’t focused on actual changes in the dog’s behavior, anxiety, or signs of stress.

At this point, there is limited evidence of proven benefits in dogs. Although the information reported in the small dog study is mildly encouraging, more study is needed before ashwagandha should be routinely used in dogs for stress relief. 

If you are looking for ways to support your senior dog, speak with your veterinarian about treatments that have proven benefits and are more likely to help. There may be more effective and better known treatments. 

The safety record of ashwagandha in dogs is thin. In human safety reviews, common side effects include upset stomach, loose stool, nausea, and drowsiness. There are also reports of liver injury and possible thyroid effects, as well as possible interactions with thyroid, diabetes, blood pressure and immunosuppressant medications.  

Although this doesn’t prove the same problems will occur in dogs, it does mean the supplement should be used cautiously.  

Product quality should also be considered, since herbal products can vary in strength and may contain additional ingredients that aren’t obvious from the front of the label.  

If your vet thinks ashwagandha is worth trying for your dog, ask whether a dog-specific or vet-recommended product makes sense. Don’t automatically reach for a human product, since it may contain other ingredients that aren’t dog-safe.  

Be sure your vet is aware of any other supplements and medications your dog takes, and any health conditions they have.  

If your dog gets into ashwagandha or takes more than intended, call your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary clinic right away. Have the package with you so you can relay exactly how much your dog took and the ingredients included in the supplement.  

Watch for vomiting, diarrhea, or unusual sleepiness. If your dog is very sleepy, shaky, hard to wake, or seems off, treat it as an emergency and take them to a veterinarian right away.  

Is ashwagandha proven to help dogs? 

No. Although one small study was conducted in healthy senior dogs, it is not sufficient to prove broad benefits for most dogs.  

Could ashwagandha be worth asking my vet about? 

Maybe. The discussion should be guided by your vet, since evidence of any benefits in dogs is limited and safety information is still incomplete.  

Are side effects a concern? 

Yes. Dog-specific safety data is limited, but human reviews report stomach upset, loose stool, nausea, drowsiness, liver concerns, and possible thyroid effects.  

Can ashwagandha interact with other medications? 

Yes. Ashwagandha may interact with thyroid, diabetes, blood pressure, and immunosuppressant medications, so your veterinarian should review everything your dog takes.  

Should I give my dog human ashwagandha? 

Dogs should not be given human ashwagandha products without a vet’s approval. Human herbal products can vary in quality and composition, so products made for people may not automatically be a good fit for pets.