You’ve heard of golden retrievers, but have you met the golden paste? This golden elixir is making waves in the world of canine health, promising a barkin’ good life for our furry friends. But what exactly is golden paste, and why is every pup parent talking about it?
Golden paste, with its star ingredient turmeric, has been a staple in Ayurvedic and traditional medicine for centuries. Its vibrant color and potent properties have earned it a top spot in holistic approaches to health. And now…it’s time to give it to our dogs.
Making golden paste is as easy as a belly rub on a sunny day. Turmeric, the golden hero, takes center stage, joined by a pinch of black pepper and a dollop of a healthy oil (like olive oil). Together, they create a powerhouse blend that packs a punch for your pup’s health.
Oh, and I’m Sarah Bond, degreed nutritionist who developed this recipe to make it even healthier for your pup. Many of the recipes for golden paste online will include:
- Coconut oil (an unhealthy fat)
- Lots of oil (too much fat for dogs)
- Cooking the paste (destroying the healthy compounds)
I wanted to create a golden paste for dogs that’s *actually* healthy, and I used my background in nutrition to do it!
Golden Paste Ingredients
Turmeric – The Key Ingredient!
Turmeric isn’t just a spice for your favorite curry. This golden gem contains curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory compound that can do wonders for your dog’s joints and overall well-being. It’s like a superhero cape for your pup’s insides!
Additional Components
Black pepper may seem like an odd sidekick, but it’s crucial. It enhances the absorption of curcumin, ensuring your pup gets the full benefits of this golden concoction. And oil? Well, it’s the vehicle that delivers these super ingredients straight to your dog’s system.
Which oil is best for golden paste?
While many recipes online use coconut oil, this is not actually the best oil for your dog! Despite its popularity, coconut oil is full of saturated fats (the unhealthy fats). Instead of using coconut oil, opt for a healthier fat, like olive oil, which provides polyunsaturated fats and omega fatty acids (the good fats!).
The Benefits of Golden Paste for Dogs
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Let’s face it, sometimes our dogs feel like they’ve been chasing squirrels for centuries. Turmeric’s anti-inflammatory magic can help ease those achy joints, making fetch a breeze again. Numerous studies have demonstrated the anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin, the active compound in turmeric. This can be beneficial for dogs with conditions like arthritis and other inflammatory disorders.
Antioxidant Boost
Free radicals beware! Research indicates that curcumin acts as a potent antioxidant. Antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, which can contribute to various health issues. The antioxidants in golden paste are like a brigade of health warriors, fighting off these troublemakers and boosting your pup’s immune system. A strong immune system means fewer trips to the vet and more tail-wagging adventures. Golden paste gives your pup’s immune system the superhero boost it needs.
Digestive Health
A happy tummy equals a happy pup! Golden paste can be a game-changer for digestive issues, offering relief from bloating, gas, and other pesky problems. Some studies suggest that turmeric may have positive effects on digestive health. It can help stimulate the production of bile, which aids in digestion. A healthy gut means better nutrient absorption and overall well-being. Golden paste is like a probiotic hug for your pup’s digestive system.
Cognitive Function
As our dogs grow older, we want to keep their minds as sharp as their fetch game. Golden paste may play a role in supporting cognitive function, helping your senior pup stay sharp and spry. Curcumin, the star of our golden show, has shown promising potential in supporting brain health. Early support for cognitive function may help keep your senior pup’s mind sharp and engaged.
How to make golden paste for dogs
While many recipes online have you cook the golden paste, this actually damages many of the useful compounds in the turmeric (which means you can kiss all of those healthy benefits goodbye!) Fortunately, there’s a better way.
Step 1: Stir
Stir together the turmeric, black pepper, and oil.
Step 2: Serve
Serve to your dog. That simple!
How to serve golden paste to your dog
Dosage Guidelines
Alright, now that we’ve got our golden elixir ready, let’s talk portions. Serving size is crucial to ensure your pup reaps all the benefits without going overboard.
- Small Breeds (e.g., Chihuahua, Dachshund): Start with about 1/4 teaspoon of golden paste per day.
- Medium Breeds (e.g., Beagle, Bulldog): Begin with 1/2 teaspoon daily.
- Large Breeds (e.g., Labrador, Golden Retriever): Aim for 3/4 to 1 teaspoon daily.
Remember, these are just starting points. Keep an eye on your pup and their reaction to the paste. If everything seems pawsitively good, you’re on the right track!
Serving Ideas
Now, onto the fun part – serving up that golden goodness. Here are a few clever ways to get your pup to gobble it up:
- Mix with Food: Simply stir the recommended amount of golden paste into your dog’s regular food. It’s like a gourmet upgrade for their mealtime.
- DIY Golden Treats: Get creative in the kitchen! Use the paste as an ingredient in homemade dog treats. Your pup will think they hit the jackpot.
- Frozen Delights: Create golden paste ice cubes for a refreshing summer treat. It’s like a pup-sicle for hot days!
Monitoring for Any Adverse Effects
As with any new addition to your pup’s diet, keep an eye out for any unusual behavior or reactions. While golden paste is generally safe and well-tolerated, every pup is unique. If you notice any discomfort or changes in behavior, it’s always a good idea to consult your vet.
How To Make Golden Paste For Dogs
Ingredients
- ¼ cup ground turmeric
- 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1 Tbsp ground black pepper
- ½ cup water
Instructions
- Stir: Stir together all ingredients until smooth.
- Serve: Serve to your pup as an occasional supplement (serving guidance in the notes!)
Notes
- Small Breeds: 1/4 teaspoon of golden paste per day
- Medium Breeds: 1/2 teaspoon of golden paste per day
- Large Breeds: 3/4 to 1 teaspoon of golden paste per day
Sheree
Friday 5th of January 2024
How do you store the golden paste? Do you refrigerate? How long is it fresh to serve your dog? Im so surprised you don’t use Coconut oil or cook. Ive been making this way for a decade giving to my other dogs Im going to research and hopefully have learned something healthy and helpful for my new Frenchie and his pain. Thank you Sheree
Sarah Bond
Tuesday 16th of January 2024
I store it in the fridge for a few days or in the freezer for many months! And yep, no coconut oil or cooking! Ever since studying nutrition in college and for my master's, I haven't understood why everyone thinks coconut oil is healthy. It's certainly not the best oil!
Jacqui Gillan
Monday 13th of November 2023
Is it really 1 Tbsp black pepper in this recipe? It seems a lot of black pepper for 1/4 cup of turmeric.
Sarah Bond
Wednesday 29th of November 2023
Yep that's correct! Remember the dosage is pretty little so your pup won't be eating a bunch at once.