Penicillin is often hailed as a ‘miracle drug’ due to its life-saving capabilities. However, many are unaware of the best natural antibiotics for dogs. Penicillin’s popularity is well-deserved, as it revolutionized medicine by preventing deaths from what are now considered minor injuries and diseases.
Despite its benefits, the extensive use of penicillin and modern antibiotics has come with a cost. They can destroy a dog’s intestinal flora, with research indicating that some beneficial bacteria may be permanently eradicated, even with the use of probiotics. Dr. Martin Blaser from New York University’s Langone Medical Center warns that the long-term impact on gut bacteria is severe enough to consider restricting antibiotics for pregnant women and young children. He suggests that this could increase susceptibility to infections and diseases and may be linked to the rise in obesity, type 1 diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, allergies, and asthma.
Previous studies on farm animals have shown an increase in antibiotic resistance, which also affects those who work with these animals. Even after ceasing antibiotic use, resistance can persist for years, passed down through generations. This issue extends to humans, with overuse leading to antibiotic-resistant diseases that are difficult to treat, a problem recognized by the CDC.
Antibiotics also suppress symptoms rather than addressing the root cause, potentially causing the disease to resurface in a more severe form. It is advisable to reserve antibiotics for serious illnesses and avoid using them for minor issues like diarrhea, skin or ear infections, or minor wounds.
Fortunately, there are many natural alternatives to antibiotics. Instead of relying on prescribed antibiotics, consider these natural options that can support a dog’s immune system and help avoid complications:
1. Oil of Oregano – Oregano oil has gained attention for its use in chicken feed and has been shown to possess antibacterial, antiviral, antiparasitic, and antifungal properties.
Oregano oil is increasingly being used by farmers as a natural alternative to antibiotics to keep poultry and livestock disease-free. Scott Sechler, owner of Bell and Evans, has been utilizing oregano oil in his feed for three years, reporting superior antimicrobial results compared to conventional antibiotics.
Science attributes the health benefits of oregano oil to its active ingredients, carvacrol and thymol, which are potent phenols capable of killing harmful bacteria and microbes. It’s crucial to note that the oregano spice used in cooking does not contain carvacrol, making the oil a superior antibiotic substitute.
When selecting oregano oil, opt for products that are wild-harvested or wild-crafted in the Mediterranean and are steam-distilled to prevent damage from overheating. Oregano oil can be used both topically and internally, and it can also be diffused. However, caution is advised: never administer undiluted oregano oil to dogs. Instead, dilute 2 to 3 drops in a teaspoon of almond or MCT oil, which can be given three times a day. For topical use, mix 1 drop of oregano oil with 1 teaspoon of almond oil to enhance its antibiotic properties.
Manuka honey, originating from New Zealand and Australia, is derived from the nectar of the manuka tree and is recognized for its exceptional topical antibiotic properties. Medical researchers are particularly interested in its antiseptic qualities due to the rise of antibiotic-resistant superbugs. Studies have shown that certain honeys, including manuka honey, can prevent the growth of MRSA, a dangerous superbug that affects hospital patients.
While all honey contains the antiseptic hydrogen peroxide, it is unstable and can be destroyed by an enzyme found in human skin. However, a discovery more than 20 years ago revealed that manuka honey contains other phytochemical antibacterial factors that are both powerful and stable, even after the removal of hydrogen peroxide. This unique characteristic, known as ‘non-hydrogen peroxide activity,’ is most potent in manuka honey.
Manuka honey is highly effective as a topical antiseptic for cuts, wounds, and abscesses. It can be applied directly to the affected area, and for enhanced wound healing, it can be mixed with colostrum. Additionally, manuka honey can aid in gastritis and other digestive issues.
That’s thanks to its anti-inflammatory and probiotic characteristics. Its antibiotic, anti-fungal and antiviral properties also make it an effective remedy for Kennel Cough, Ringworm and Other conditions. When you buy Manuka honey, look for one with at least UMF10+. UMF stands for Unique Manuka Factor. A higher number means higher Methylglyoxal (MGO) and that means more therapeutic benefits.
For internal use start off slow and work your way to these doses: Under 20 lbs … ½ tsp twice daily. 20 to 60 lbs … 1 tsp twice daily. 60 lbs or more … 2 tsp twice daily.
Caution: You shouldn’t give manuka honey to diabetic dogs or dogs under 1 year of age.
Olive leaf comes from European olive trees in the subtropics and is antimicrobial, antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal. This is because of oleuropein, the active ingredient in olive leaf. It boosts the immune system and deactivates pathogens like bacteria, yeast and viruses. But olive leaf also has constituents like secoiridoids, flavonoids and triterpenes. These help boost its healing power.
Unlike antibiotics, olive leaf is an alternative that doesn’t harm the beneficial bacteria in your dog’s gut. It targets the bad bacteria and leaves the microbiome intact, so the gut stays healthy. Olive leaf can help with many health issues in your dog like Kennel cough, Flu, Intestinal infection, Yeast infections, Dental infections, Urinary tract infections.
You can buy olive leaf in powder, capsule or tincture form. But be sure to look for certified organic. Herbal products come in a wide range of quality and organic will be the most healthful. If you choose to use powder, you can dose your dog based on his size. Small Dogs … ¼ tsp daily. Medium Dogs … ½ tsp daily. Large Dogs … 1 tsp daily. You can also make tea from dried leaves. Steep 1 tsp of dried leaves in a cup of hot water for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain the leaves and let the liquid cool. A 50 lb dog can have up to 1 cup daily.
Caution: Olive leaf can cause digestive upset in some dogs. If your dog is nauseous, vomiting or other stomach upset, try a different option. If you use olive leaf for yeast infections, you can give up to 500 mg daily (capsule or powder) per 50 lb of body weight. But start slow and work your way up to the max amount. Olive leaf can cause yeast die-off effects that can aggravate symptoms. To help with intestinal parasites, look for an olive leaf extract with 12% oleuropein or more. Give it twice a day for 8 weeks. Small Dogs … 300 mg twice daily. Medium Dogs … 500 mg twice daily. Large Dogs … 1000 mg twice daily.
Antibiotics are often prescribed for dogs with Lyme Disease. But they can be expensive, difficult to dose and have dangerous side effects. Researchers at John Hopkins University decided to look for an alternative solution. And they landed on essential oils. Essential oils are oils extracted from plants. In 2017, researchers at John Hopkins looked at 34 essential oils. They found 23 oils that were more effective than doxycycline, a popular antibiotic for the persistent form of Lyme disease.
Recent studies have shown that 23 essential oils outperformed a potent antibiotic, with oregano, clove bud, and cinnamon bark being particularly effective. They eradicated all viable cells without regrowth in a fresh medium. A follow-up study tested 35 more oils, with 16 showing better results than the top 3 antibiotics. Garlic, which was as effective as oregano and cinnamon bark, can be a natural antibiotic alternative due to its antiseptic, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties.
Garlic has been used for centuries to prevent infections and treat diseases. It contains allicin, which is effective against a wide range of bacteria, including multidrug-resistant strains of E. coli. To use garlic for your dog, prepare fresh, raw, and organic garlic by peeling, mincing, chopping, or crushing it, and let it sit for about 10 minutes to maximize allicin benefits. The dosage depends on the dog’s weight: 5 lbs – ⅙ tsp, 10 lbs – ⅓ tsp, 15 lbs – ½ tsp, 20 lbs – ⅔ tsp, and 20 lbs – 1 tsp. However, garlic should not be used for pregnant dogs or puppies under 6 months old, and consult your vet about medication interactions.
Plantain, a common weed, is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. It contains allantoin, a phytochemical that kills germs, speeds up healing, and stimulates skin growth, making it an ideal alternative to topical antibiotics.
When considering essential oils as a natural antibiotic for your pet, it is crucial to consult with a professional aromatherapist or herbalist, as they can be both effective and dangerous if used incorrectly.
You can make a lotion out of plantain for skin irritation. Combine plantain with calendula and aloe vera. Apply this to your dog’s bites, rashes or sores. You can also use it on its own, which makes it a great option for when your dog gets injured while out and about. Find a plantain plant, chew up the leaves and then put them on your dog’s wound. Even if you overtrim your dog’s nails and cut the quick, you can use plantain. You can also steep a tea to use for ear infections. For internal problems, juice fresh plantain plants in a juicer or blender. Mix with a small amount of warm water. It’s up to you if you want to strain the liquid. Give your dog 1 tsp per 20 lbs of body weight with his meals each day. You can also try capsules or liquid extracts.
Caution: Plantain can sometimes cause rashes, diarrhea or other allergic reactions. It may be a good idea to try plantain topically on your dog’s skin before giving it orally.
Goldenseal is a herb. The roots and leaves are often used for medicinal purposes. You may have even used it yourself for a cold, digestive upset or respiratory infection. It contains berberine, a plant chemical with antimicrobial properties. It also has antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. That makes it a great alternative for conventional antibiotics. When you buy goldenseal, make sure it’s from a cultivated organic source.
Avoid using wildcrafted goldenseal as it could endanger the species. You can buy goldenseal tincture for topical use. To use it as a disinfectant, put a small amount on a washcloth and apply it to the skin 3 times daily. It’s also possible to make your own tea if you don’t want to use tincture. To make goldenseal tea, boil a gram of powdered goldenseal in a cup of water. Goldseal is also good for internal use.
It helps with worms, giardia, kennel cough, influenza and digestive infections. Give 5 to 10 drops of tincture or ¼ cup of tea per 20 lbs daily. You can also use 1 tsp of powdered goldenseal per 20 lbs daily.
Note: Goldenseal tastes very bitter, so you may need to disguise the flavor with a treat or in your dog’s food. Goldenseal is also useful for ear infections. Mix 1 tbsp of olive oil with 2 to 3 drops of goldenseal root extract in a cup. Use an eyedropper to place 2 to 3 drops of the mixture in the infected ear.
Caution: Your dog shouldn’t use goldenseal long-term. Use it for a week or so at a time then take a break. Do not use goldenseal for pregnant, newborn or hypoglycemic dogs.
Like plantain, yarrow is a common weed with antibacterial properties. Yarrow essential oil is effective in killing many bacteria, including staphylococcus. You can use yarrow as a topical antibiotic to help with cuts and wounds, burns, ulcers, swelling and inflamed skin. You can use a yarrow tincture as an alternative for antibiotics or you can make tea. Place 8 tablespoons of fresh yarrow or 4 tbsp of dried yarrow in a quart of boiled water. Steep for 20 minutes. Strain the liquid and let it cool.
Discover effective natural remedies to support your dog’s health instead of relying on antibiotics. Here are some alternatives:
1. Tea Spray for Itching Relief: Brew tea and store it in the fridge for a few days. Apply the tea to your dog’s affected area 3 to 5 times daily using a spray bottle. This can help relieve itching and soothe the skin.
2. Calendula: Known for its anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties, calendula can be used as a lotion or tea. To make a lotion, mix ¼ tsp table salt with 1 cup of purified water and add 20 to 40 drops of calendula tincture. Apply this lotion to wounds 2 to 4 times daily. For a tea solution, steep 2 tsps of dried calendula in boiling water, cool, and strain. Use this tea to spritz your dog or soak a cloth for wound application. For internal use, add tincture or dried herb to your dog’s food. Note: Calendula should not be used for pregnant dogs.
3. Turmeric: This yellow-orange spice has been studied extensively for its health benefits, including its antimicrobial, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties. Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has been shown to kill bacteria. For topical use, mix turmeric with organic aloe vera and apply to your dog’s wounds or scratches. For internal use, consider a water-soluble supplement or making a golden paste. To make golden paste, combine ½ cup turmeric powder with 1 cup of water, simmer until thick, then add 1 ½ tsp ground pepper and ¼ cup MCT oil or ghee. Store in the fridge and give your dog ⅛ to ¼ tsp of golden paste for every 10 lbs of body weight daily, adjusting the amount as needed.
These natural alternatives can help your dog heal and prevent long-term damage from pharmaceutical medications. Consider these remedies before opting for antibiotics.
FAQ: What are natural antibiotics for dogs?
There are many natural alternatives to antibiotics for dogs. Some of these include oregano oil, manuka honey, olive leaf extract, or essential oils.
What is the most powerful natural antibiotic?
Garlic is often considered one of the most powerful natural antibiotics. It has potent antimicrobial properties that can fight bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Allicin, the active compound in garlic, is highly effective at killing and inhibiting the growth of pathogens.
Is there an over the counter antibiotic for dogs?
In many countries, including the U.S., there are no over-the-counter antibiotics legally available for dogs. Antibiotics for dogs require a prescription from a veterinarian. Misuse can lead to resistance and complications in treatment.
How do you treat a bacterial infection in a dog?
It’s best to see a holistic veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment of a bacterial infection in your dog. Antibiotics may be necessary for serious infections. In the meantime, keeping the infected area clean and applying natural antibiotics and antiseptics may help prevent further infection.
