Hop root

What is hop root?

Hop root is the underground part of the hop plant, which belongs to the hemp family. The root contains many valuable ingredients, such as bitter substances, flavonoids, tannins and essential oils. These have various positive effects on the dog's body.

What are the benefits of hop root for dogs?

Hop root can help dogs with the following complaints in particular:

• Stress and anxiety: hop root has a calming and relaxing effect on the nervous system of dogs. It can therefore be used for anxious, nervous or stressed dogs, for example for New Year's Eve anxiety, travel sickness or separation anxiety.
• Sleep disorders: Hop root promotes falling asleep and improves the quality of sleep in dogs. It can therefore help dogs that suffer from insomnia or restless sleep.
• Digestive problems: Hop root stimulates digestion and has an antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory effect on the gastrointestinal tract of dogs. It can therefore help dogs suffering from flatulence, diarrhea, constipation or gastritis.
• Skin and coat problems: Hop root has an antibacterial and antifungal effect on the skin of dogs. It can therefore help dogs suffering from skin infections, eczema, dandruff or itching.
• Joint problems: Hop root has a pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory effect on dogs' joints. It can therefore help dogs suffering from osteoarthritis, rheumatism or other joint diseases.

What are the disadvantages of hop root for dogs?

Hop root is generally well tolerated by dogs when used in the correct dosage and form. However, there are some possible disadvantages or side effects of hop root for dogs that you should be aware of:

• Allergies: some dogs can have an allergic reaction to hop root. This can manifest as a skin rash, itching, swelling or difficulty breathing. If you notice such symptoms in your dog, you should consult a vet immediately and stop giving hops root.
• Interactions: Hop root can strengthen or weaken the effect of other medications or food supplements. This applies in particular to drugs that also have an effect on the nervous system or blood clotting. If your dog is taking such medication, you should speak to your vet before giving hops root.
• Overdose: Too high a dose of hop root can lead to symptoms of poisoning in dogs. This can manifest as vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, apathy or convulsions. If you notice such symptoms in your dog, you should consult a vet immediately and stop giving hops root.

How to use hop root for dogs?

Hops root can be used for dogs in various forms, for example as a cut root, a powder, a decoction or a tincture. The form depends on how you want to prepare and administer the hop root for your dog. Here are some options:

• As a tea: You can make a tea for your dog from the cut root or the decoction. To do this, pour 250 ml of boiling water over a teaspoon of hop root and leave to infuse for 10 minutes. Then strain the tea and offer it to your dog lukewarm. You can also sweeten the tea with a little honey or broth to make it more palatable.
• As a food supplement: You can mix the powder or chopped root directly into your dog's food. You should make sure that the root is well chopped so that your dog doesn't spit it out or choke on it. You can also add a little water or broth to make the food more moist.
• As a poultice: You can use the tincture or tea to make a poultice for your dog. To do this, soak a clean cloth with the liquid and place it on the affected area of your dog. For example, on a wound, a bruise or an inflamed joint. You should change the poultice several times a day and then dab the area dry.

How to dose hop root for dogs?

The dosage of hop root for dogs depends on various factors, such as weight, age, state of health and the shape of the hop root. You should therefore always follow the recommendations of the manufacturer or your vet. As a general guideline:

• For small dogs (up to 10 kg): 0.5 to 1 teaspoon of cut root or powder per day or 5 to 10 drops of tincture per day
• For medium sized dogs (10 to 25 kg): 1 to 2 teaspoons of cut root or powder per day or 10 to 20 drops of tincture per day
• For large dogs (over 25 kg): 2 to 4 teaspoons of cut root or powder per day or 20 to 40 drops of tincture per day

You should slowly increase the dose of hop root for your dog and observe how he responds. If you don't see any improvement or notice any side effects, you should reduce the dose or stop giving hops root.

Where can you buy hop root for dogs?

You can buy hop root for dogs in various online stores, pharmacies or pet supply stores. You should pay attention to the quality and origin of the hop root. It is best to choose a product from organic cultivation that is free from harmful substances, pesticides and genetic engineering. You should also check the expiry date of the hop root and store it in a cool, dry and dark place.