Grape seed extract is a substance derived from ground-up seeds of grapes, generally red wine grapes. Although it’s a common fact that grapes (and raisins) are toxic to dogs, the extract of the seeds are actually quite beneficial, to dogs, cats, and humans alike. It has a high concentration of antioxidants and it contains active ingredients that are anti-allergen, anti-inflammatory, and anti-mutagenic.

Grape seed extract comes with a large list of benefits and it’s a substance that is regularly found in dog supplements and foods. Holistic veterinarians are recommending grape seed extract more and more thanks to everything it can do for your dog. Grape seed extract or grape seed oil is also a good source of Omega 6 fatty acids, especially when it’s derived from organic grapes. Grape seed extract also has high levels of vitamin E.

Top Rated Grapeseed Extracts for Dogs!

Benefits of Using Grape Seed Extract on Your Dog.

With the knowledge that grapes are toxic to dogs, it’s alarming to present grape seed extract as something beneficial. It’s normal for a pet owner to wonder “is grape seed extract good for my dog?” After the process of extracting the oil from grape seeds, what’s left is a very powerful and versatile substance that can be used for a plethora of problems. The Ottawa Valley Dog Whisperer has a very large and comprehensive, though partial, list of grape seed extract’s benefits for dogs:

• Anti-allergen…
  • Asthma (an inflammatory disease)
  • Food allergies;
  • Skin Allergies (use grape seed extract and good quality fish oil as a dual dietary supplement);
    • Eczema;
    • Psoriasis;
  • Environmental allergies (hay fever).
• Anti-Inflammatory;
  • Grape seed extract contains natural Cox-2;
• Atherosclerosis – hardening of the arteries, (an inflammatory disease);
• Arthritis;
• Brain Health;
  • The active ingredients in grape seed extract can cross the blood-brain barrier;
  • Thus allowing the antioxidant properties to aid in the prevention of oxidative stress to the brain, eyes and nerves…providing protection from:
  • Canine Dementia;
  • Cataracts;
  • Macular degeneration, and;
  • Neurodegenerative diseases.
• Cardiovascular Disease (an Inflammatory disease);
  • Grape seed extract increase the production of nitric oxide which dilates arteries and increases blood flow.
• Cancer prevention and cancer fighting (an inflammatory disease), for example…
  • Grape seed extract has been proven to halt the growth and survival of colorectal cancer cells and kills the cancer cells in large numbers without harming healthy cells;
  • In contrast to chemotherapy to which cancer cells may become resistant, the many bioactive compounds in grape seed extract are able to target multiple mutations – with efficacy actually increasing in stage IV cells;
  • Grape seed extract has been shown to trigger the destruction of leukemia cells by turning on a protein called JNK that regulates the cancer killing pathway;
  • Decreases risk of prostate cancer and breast cancer;
  • When combined with Ubiquinol, grape seed extract becomes an even more potent anti-carcinogen.
• Cholesterol lowering;
• Chronic fatigue syndrome;
• Chronic venous insufficiency;
• Crohn’s disease;
• Dental care, gingivitis;
• Diabetes complications such as:
  • Blood Vessel damage;
  • Macular degeneration (AMD).
• Diarrhea;
• Fur growth after loss or damage due to skin conditions;
• Insulin sensitivity ;
  • Grape seed extract improves insulin sensitivity;
  • Insulin sensitivity can lead to the development of metabolic syndrome (pre-diabetes).
• Liver damage/disorders;
• Lower Blood pressure;
• Muscle fatigue;
• Swelling caused by injury, sudden trauma;
• Pain control;
• Ulcerative colitis.

So, is Grape Seed Extract good for dogs?

Yes! Grape seed extract definitely has benefits for dogs! The list is quite large and exhaustive, and ranges from reduced inflammation related diseases, to improved skin and fur, to brain health and cancer prevention. The high amount of antioxidants present in grape seed extract is great for treating several ailments on your dog. In combination with other supplements such as fish oil, it can boost your canine companion’s overall health. The Sweet Water Nutrition website explains the following about grape seed extract’s composition:

“Grape seed extract contains oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPCs), which have long been recognized as powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that destroy free radicals – harmful compounds in the body that cause cellular damage. Grape seed extract also contains Vitamin E, flavonoids and linoleic acid. Resveratrol is another of grape seed extract compounds which is related to OPCs.”

Dangers/Risks of Using Grape Seed Extract on Your Dog

It’s increasingly important to know about the safety of the ingredients that we use on our dogs, and along with the toxicity produced by consuming regular grapes, a pet owner is quick to question the safety of grape seed extract. But since grape seed extract a common ingredient in many dog products, is grape seed extract safe for dogs?

The Ottawa Valley Dog Whisperer lists the following side effects of using grape seed extract:

• Allergic reaction to grape seed extract is very rare – symptoms include the following:
  • Itching/swelling (particularly face, tongue, throat);
  • Diarrhea;
  • Nausea;
  • Rash;
  • Severe dizziness;
  • Sore throat;
  • Trouble breathing.
• If allergic reaction occurs cease use.

Grape seed extract may also negatively interact with some medications such as anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory substances.

So, is Grape Seed Extract safe for dogs?

Grape seed extract is definitely safe for dogs. Now just like humans, dogs can have allergies and specific sensitivities to certain substances, in which case they might present the above mentioned side effects. For many dogs that need a detox, especially to fight certain conditions such as arthritis, cancer, gastrointestinal problems, skin conditions, etc., grape seed extract can be a great supplement to add their diet thanks to its antioxidant properties.

To ensure that your dog isn’t allergic or sensitive to grape seed extract, introduce a very small dose to their food and monitor their behavior closely the first few days to make sure that the grape seed extract isn’t producing any adverse effects. Also, make sure to consult with your veterinarian first before adding any supplements to your dog’s diet.

How to Use Grape Seed Extract for Your Dog.

Grape seed extract is a great supplement to add to your dog’s diet thanks to all its antioxidant and vitamin rich properties. For your dog to reap the benefits of this extract, you must administer it orally. Keep in mind that I am not a veterinarian and that you should approach your pet’s healthcare provider first to determine whether the use of grape seed oil is right for your dog.

Grape seed extract can be found in three ways: liquid, powder, and capsules (gel or powdered). When you purchase your product, be sure to closely read the manufacturer’s instructions.

The grape seed extract product made by Azmira Holistic Animal Care suggests the following usage directions:

Cats & Small Animals: 1/2 to 1 capsule per day; Medium to Large Dogs: 2 to 4 capsules per day; Horses: 4 to 6 capsules per day.

Give orally or open capsule(s) and mix into food. Best to divide daily dose into two feedings for optimum results.

To administer a liquid form of grape seed extract, you may have to consult with your veterinarian first to determine the proper dosage according to your dog’s size and weight. This way you can ensure the effectiveness of the grape seed extract without potentially harming your dog.

It’s also important to provide a grape seed extract that is pure and that does not contain any alcohol, fillers, nor sweeteners. Try to purchase an organic product as well which will be free of any pesticides. Also read the label closely and look for 90-95% of oligomeric proanthocyandin (OPCs).

FAQ

• Why should I use grape seed extract for my dog?

Grape seed extract is very rich in antioxidant and it can help your dog with many health problems such as arthritis, cancer, brain functions, skin problems, digestive tract issues, allergies, cardiovascular diseases, etc. It’s usually administered to older dogs, to help them have a longer and happy life.

• Are there any side effects of adding grape seed extract to my dog’s diet?

While grapes are toxic for dogs, grape seed extract is not. It’s use can provoke side effects to your dog if he/she has an allergy or sensitivity to it. Generally, dogs don’t have these type of reactions but just as us humans, dogs can be sensitive to different things. So always check with your vet first before trying to add grape seed extract to your dog’s diet. Also read the labels of the product and determine with your vet what the correct dosages for your dog should be.

• Aren’t grapes toxic for dogs?

Grapes are toxic for dogs, especially their skin. This includes raisins as well. However, grape seed extract is not toxic at all for dogs, and has been used even on cats and horses.

• Can give my puppy grape seed extract?

Always check with your veterinarian before trying to add any new type of substance to your puppy’s routine. It’s best to wait after 10 weeks of age to start using anything new. In the case of grape seed extract, you should only use it on your puppy if it is absolutely necessary, for a short period of time, and under the guidance of your veterinarian.

• Can I use grape seed extract with my pregnant dog?

The same with puppies. Only use grape seed extract on your pregnant dog if it’s absolutely necessary and under the guidance of your vet.

• How do I use grape seed extract for my dog?

Grape seed extract should only be orally administered, added to their food or fed directly through a capsule. The proper dosage will vary depending on the product that you purchase and for the purpose it is needed. Ask your vet first before adding grape seed oil to your dog’s supplement regimen.

Conclusion

Grape seed oil is a great supplement to add to your dog’s diet thanks to its great antioxidant properties, vitamins, and health benefits. It’s usually used to combat targeted illnesses such as cancer, arthritis, gastrointestinal problems, and skin related issues. It’s a great supplement to help detox your dog from all the chemical laden products out there that we may have used on our pups before.

Grape seed oil should be always taken orally and you should always make sure you read the label on the product you buy to ensure you’re giving your dog top quality. Grape seed extract is such a powerful, natural antioxidant that it can strengthen your dog’s immune system, fight free radicals and slow down their aging process.

Consult your veterinarian to determine the dosage and the method in which you should give your dog grape seed extract, since it can be found in capsules, liquid, and powder. The dosage will also depend on your dog’s size and weight.

Related posts:

Salmon Oil For Dogs – Benefits, Dosage, Safety, and Dangers. Neem Oil For Dogs – Shampoos, Safety, and Benefits! Emu Oil For Dogs – Shampoos, Skin Care, and Healing Arthritis Hemp Seed Oil For Dogs – Benefits for Cancer and Arthritis Treatment