Natural Canine Prostate Remedies

(FTC Disclosure: If you make a purchase via a link on this page, I may receive a small commission, at no added cost to you.)

Overview

Older intact dogs are more susceptible to the development of certain canine prostate problems, such as prostate enlargement and inflammation.

Neutering prevents over 90% of all prostate problems in the course of the dog's life. (Prostate cancer, however, is one exception. It can develop in BOTH neutered and intact male dogs).

If you have an older intact male dog, and are concerned about his prostate health, read on... This page looks at how to use some natural canine prostate remedies to help treat dog prostate enlargement and inflammation.

Specifically, we will look at:

• Herbs for Dog Prostate Problems
• Dog Prostate Vitamins & Supplements
• Homeopathic Remedies for Dog Prostate

Herbal Remedies for Dog Prostate Problems

Some herbs are very effective in treating prostate problems in dogs. For example:

• Saw Palmetto: This herb is said to be effective in shrinking swollen and enlarged prostate tissue (in both men and pets).

  However, please note that this herb cannot cure prostate cancer.

  Saw palmetto is safe for dogs, but it is advisable to use it under a holistic vet's supervision.

  As a general guideline, for small dogs (under 15 pounds), 5-10 mg of the herb per day can be given. For dogs between 15 to 50 pounds, about 20 mg/day; and dogs over 50 pounds can take up to 30 mg/day.

• Nettle: Nettle root possesses anti-inflammatory properties and is useful in treating prostate enlargement caused by infections, especially at the onset of the problem. Nettle root is safe to be used on dogs and can be used synergistically with saw palmetto for dog prostate enlargement.
• Cleavers: Cleavers supports the urinary tract and bladder and enhances glandular health.
• Echinacea: Immune-boosting herbs such as echinacea (or goldenseal) can be given to dogs with prostate infection. These herbs stimuate the immune system and help stop infections throughout the body.

Supplements

Dogs with prostate problems will benefit from these dietary supplements:

• Vitamin E: Vitamin E is a good antioxidant for the prostate. It helps stop infections and is effective for boosting the immune system. It also enhances the health of mucous membranes.
• Vitamin C: Vitamin C is a natural anti-inflammatory agent and may help shrink the prostate to its normal size.
• Zinc: Zinc nourishes the prostate gland and is particularly important for the overall health of the gland.
• Kelp: Kelp has been used in Asia (Japan and China) for many years to treat prostate problems, uterine problems, as well as kidney and bladder ailments. It also has detoxifying properties and is nutritive.
• Lecithin: Lecithin is a naturally occurring compound found in all living cells. It plays a major role in almost all biological processes. It is an antioxidant and it also supports cell membranes of the prostate gland.

Homeopathic Canine Prostate Remedies

Several homeopathic remedies can be used to treat canine prostate enlargement or infections. If you would like to give homeopathic remedies a try, consult a holistic vet. Common remedies for dog prostate problems include the following:

Pulsatilla

This remedy is most effective for acute inflammation of the prostate. Dogs needing this remedy have a painful prostate and have a yellow pus-like discharge, sometimes tainted with blood.

Sabal serrulata

This remedy is made from the herb saw palmetto, and is good for prostate enlargement.

Conium maculatum

This remedy is good for prostate enlargement in older dogs (and in older men too!). Dogs requiring this remedy may have difficulty urinating, especially at the start. Urination may start and stop several times, and the dog may dribble urine.

Chimaphila umbellata

This remedy is effective for inflammation of the prostate. Dogs needing this remedy have to strain to start urinating, which is painful. There is often mucus in the urine.

References
M. Goldstein, The Nature of Animal Healing (Ballantine Books, 2000).
R.H. Pitcairn, The Complete Guide to Natural Health for Dogs and Cats (Rodale, 2005).
D. Hamilton, Homeopathic Care for Cats and Dogs (North Atlantic Books, 1999).