Being a dog owner, I am constantly scouting for natural ways to keep my canine friend healthy and happy. Recently, I came across what is termed lignans, I was amazed by what I learned! If you’re looking for how these plant compounds can help your pup—especially if they have Cushing’s disease—then you’re in for a treat. Enter the world of lignans and find out why they could just be the new best buddy for your pooch—after you, of course.
What Are Lignans for Dogs, Anyway?
First of all, let’s break down what lignans actually are. Imagine tiny superheroes found in plants – that is basically what lignans are! They’re natural compounds that act as antioxidants and can be found in foods like flaxseed, sesame seeds, and various grains and berries. Most commercial dog foods just don’t contain enough of these powerful plant compounds. That is why lately, most pet parents have turned to lignan supplements for a supplemental health boost in their dogs.
Best Lignans for Dogs You Can buy:
| Image | Product | Details | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
 | HMR Lignans for Dogs 20mg, 90 Peanut Butter Tablets for Medium Dogs – Norway Spruce Extract Holistic Dog Health – Digestion, & Coat Care – Dog Enhancer for Overall Wellness Lignans for Dogs | Brand: K9 Select Flavor: Peanut Butter Item Form: Tablet Active Ingredients: spruce tree Item Weight: 1.6 Ounces | Check Price |
 | HMR Lignans for Dogs 20mg – 90 Capsules – Vitamin for Healthy Pet | Natural Dog Multivitamin | Dog Wellness Supplement | Dog Nutritional Supplement | Overall Health w/Phytonutrients | Brand: Lignans For Life Flavor: No Flavor Active Ingredients: spruce tree Item Weight: 20 Pounds Product Benefits: Immune Support Ingredients: HMR Lignan (20 mg). Other ingredients: microcrystalline cellulose, vegetarian capsule (cellulose, water) | Check Price |
 | Lignans & Melatonin Blend Naturally Aids in Relieving Symptoms of Cushing’s Disease in Dogs | Helps Promote Healthy Adrenal Balance & Overall Well-being | by Prana Pets | 1 MG Melatonin, 10 MG Lignans | Brand: PranaPets Item Form: Tablet Item Weight: 0.24 Pounds Target Species: Dog Manufacturer: PranaPets Ingredients: Melatonin, SDG Lignan (from Flax Seed Extract), Sorbitol, Sucrose, Natural & Artificial Flavors, Dicalcium Phosphate, Silicon Dioxide, Salt | Check Price |
Check the Whole list of Lignans for Dogs!
The Amazing Benefits of Lignans for Dogs
You might be wondering at this point, “What’s so great about lignans?” I’m about to share some pretty exciting stuff!
Hormone Harmony
If your dog is spayed or neutered, then lignans restore their hormonal balance. This will improve their metabolism, muscle health, and even their brain function. Talk about a triple treat!
Immune System Supercharge
Lignans act like a shield to your dog’s immune system against a myriad of diseases and even possibly some cancers. It’s like giving your pup’s natural defenses a boost!
Heart Health Hero
These plant compounds can help keep your dog’s ticker in tip-top shape by supporting cardiovascular health. Who would have thought such tiny compounds could have such a big impact?
Cushing’s Disease
Now, here is where lignans really come into play. For those dogs suffering from Cushing’s disease, lignans are like a huge lifesaver. They help manage troublesome symptoms by bringing cortisol levels under control. More on this in a bit!
Lignans and Cushing’s Disease: A Dynamic Duo
If your pup friend has been diagnosed with Cushing’s disease, you must be studying too well the symptoms: excessive panting, increased thirst, and fur loss. It’s tough watching your pup struggle. That’s where the lignans come to the rescue!
How Lignans Help with Cushing’s
Lignins work by inhibiting the enzymes that produce excess cortisol. Coupled with melatonin—yes, that same hormone that helps us sleep!—lignans can effectively lower those troublesome steroid levels in dogs with Cushing’s.
The best part? Lignans are a natural alternative to some of the harsher medications often used to treat Cushing’s. They’re gentler on your dog’s system and come with far fewer side effects. It’s like dressing your pup up in a soft, comfy sweater instead of a stiff, uncomfortable jacket!
Seeing Results: Patience is Key
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “When going to start seeing results?” Every dog is different, but most pet parents reported control in the symptoms of Cushing’s in their dogs ranging from a few weeks to a few months of starting lignan supplements.
In fact, 85% of dog owners reported at least one Cushing’s symptom control after an average of two months on lignans. Some lucky pups even showed progress in as little as two weeks!
The Right Dose for Your Dog
- Finding the correct amount of lignans for your dog is straightforward. 1-2 mg of the lignan- per pound of your dog’s weight, given once a day. That means a 30-pound dog should be given 30-60 milligrams of lignans per day.
- 3 mg of the lignan- every 12 hours for dogs under 30 lbs
- 6 mg of the lignan- every 12 hours for dogs over 30 lbs
Giving Lignans to Your Dog: Easy Peasy!
Administering lignans to your dog couldn’t be easier. You can just give them as a tablet or capsule. If your pup is a little bit fussy, you can open the capsule and sprinkle the powder straight onto their food. Sneaky, but effective!
In case you are using flaxseed lignans, adding yogurt will help them get into your dog’s body and get absorbed. Plus, most dogs love a tasty yogurt treat!
Beyond Cushing’s: Part Played by Lignans in Maintaining Overall Health
Even if your canine companion is cleared of Cushing’s disease, the lignans will still act as a wonderful boost for the maintenance of their health. These plant powerhouses can do so much more to aid in the following cases:
- Skin and Coat Health: No more dryness and itchiness; shine on with a healthy coat!
- Cancer Prevention: Some studies believe that lignans have properties to help prevent specific types of cancers from developing in dogs.
- Diabetes Control: If your pup has diabetes, then lignans might help regulate his blood sugar.
- Beyond Cushing’s: Part Played by Lignans in Maintaining Overall Health. Even if your dog doesn’t have Cushing’s disease, lignans can still be a fantastic addition to their health regimen. These plant powerhouses can help with:
- Skin and Coat Health: Say goodbye to dryness and itchiness; shine on with a healthy coat!
- Cancer Prevention: Some studies believe that lignans have properties to help prevent specific types of cancers from developing in dogs.
- Diabetes Control: If your pup has diabetes, then lignans might help regulate his blood sugar.
Safety First: Are There Side Effects?
One of the best things about lignans is how safe they are for most dogs. Side effects are generally rare and very mild. Some dogs might notice a bit of extra pooping or occasional diarrhea with flaxseed lignans due to the fiber content. But if you’re using HMR lignans from spruce trees, even these minor tummy troubles are less likely.
Always remember to chat with your vet before starting any new supplement for your dog. Your vet’s knowledgeable input into your pup’s best interest will assist on the right path to better health!
Bottom line: Lignans for the Win!
There you have it, dog lovers! Lignans are a perfectly natural, safe, and efficient solution to promote your dog’s health, particularly if they are suffering from Cushing’s disease. These little plant compounds can just do everything; from balancing hormones to increasing the immune system—absolutely all in one mightier package.
Remember every pup is different, so what works for one pup may not work for another dog. But due to their amazing safety profile and potential health benefits, lignans are certainly something to explore for your fur baby.
Here’s to happy dogs and healthy pups, and that amazing power of nature!
Frequently Asked Questions About Lignans for Dogs
Can I just give my dog lignans if they aren’t on any other medications? Absolutely! Lignans are safe for most healthy dogs, and they can have many health benefits even if your pup is not on other medications. However, always best to check with your vet before starting any new supplement.
How long should I give lignans to my dog to decide if they’re working? It’s generally recommended to give lignans for at least 2-3 months before evaluating their effectiveness. Some dogs show improvements sooner, but giving it time allows for the full benefits to become apparent.
Are there any dogs that should not take lignans? lignans are safe for most dogs, exceptions to this are dogs with hormone-sensitive conditions, pregnant dogs, and lactating bitches. You should consult with your vet first, especially if your dog has some pre-existing health conditions.
Can lignans replace my dog’s current Cushing’s medication? Lignins can complement traditional Cushing’s treatments great, but you should never stop or change the medication your dog is on without consulting your vet first. They can help determine the best treatment plan for your pup.
Can any foods that are, naturally high in lignans be fed to my dog? Yes! Flaxseed is a great source of lignans. You can grind them and sprinkle a very small amount over your dog’s food. Other lignan-rich foods include pumpkin seeds and sesame seeds, but it’s better to give these in moderation as part of a well-balanced diet.
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