Course Welcome — Why Dog Herbalism Is Its Own Skill

Welcome to the intermediate dog herbalism course. By the end of the twelfth lesson, you will have built and used at least one supportive protocol for a specific dog, documented the experience, and understand the working framework for dog-specific herbal practice.

Why dog herbalism is its own skill

Dogs are not small humans. They have different liver metabolism, different sensitivities, different anatomical considerations, and different lifestyles. Several specific differences matter:

**Liver metabolism.** Dogs handle many herbs differently from humans. Some herbs that are safe at standard dose in humans are concerning at the same dose in dogs (xylitol-containing extracts being the most notorious example, but several less-obvious ones exist). Some herbs that are gentle in humans are stronger in dogs.

**Alcohol sensitivity.** Dogs do not tolerate alcohol well. Standard human tinctures (1:5 at 40-60% ABV) deliver substantial alcohol when scaled to typical dog doses. Glycerites are generally preferred for dogs; low-alcohol preparations (1:5 at 25-30% ABV) are acceptable for larger dogs.

**Behavioral patterns.** Dogs cannot tell you what they feel. Assessment depends on observation — what their body language shows, what changes in eating/drinking/elimination, what the human caregiver notices.

**Lifestyle factors.** Modern dogs face stresses our ancestors did not anticipate — small living spaces, irregular exercise, processed foods, separation from humans for long workdays, environmental allergens. Many chronic dog patterns are partly lifestyle-related.

**Veterinary care context.** Working with dogs means working alongside veterinary care. Vets have prescribing authority, diagnostic capability, and emergency capability that herbal practice does not. Coordination is the standard.

What this course covers

Twelve lessons covering:

- Dog physiology and the constitutional framework - Breed tendencies (large and small breed, brachycephalic, hunting/herding, etc.) - Age stages — puppy, adult, senior - The common chronic patterns: allergies, GI issues, joint problems, anxiety, skin - Calming herbs for anxious dogs - Digestive support for common gut patterns - Joint and mobility support - Skin and coat work - Working with veterinarians - A capstone — building a specific protocol for a specific dog

What this course is not

This is not veterinary training. We are not learning to diagnose disease, prescribe medications, or replace veterinary care. We are learning supportive herbal practice for dogs — gentle herbs at appropriate doses for chronic supportive needs, alongside whatever veterinary care the dog needs.

This is also not pediatric herbalism in the medical sense. Veterinary care for dogs is a real medical practice with its own pharmacology and surgical capability. Our work is the supportive layer that often complements (and sometimes simplifies) what the veterinary team does.

The legal framing

In the United States, the practice of veterinary medicine is restricted to licensed veterinarians. As a herbalist, your role with dogs is:

- Supportive herbal recommendations for general wellness - Adjunctive support during illness or recovery (alongside veterinary diagnosis and treatment) - Education for dog owners about herbs and pet care

You do not: - Diagnose specific diseases - Recommend treatment for specific diagnosed conditions without veterinary involvement - Suggest changes to prescribed veterinary medications

Working within this scope and clearly communicating it to clients protects everyone.

Materials for the course

A dog. Most lessons reference work you might do with your own dog, a family member's dog, or (with appropriate consent and consultation with the dog's veterinarian) a friend's dog.

A small library of dog-appropriate herbal preparations. Glycerites are the gold standard. A starter kit: - Chamomile glycerite (digestive, calming) - Ginger glycerite (nausea, digestive) - Marshmallow root glycerite (gut soothing) - Milky oats glycerite (nervous system) - Slippery elm powder (gut soothing — most useful in powder form) - Mullein glycerite (respiratory)

A relationship with a veterinarian. Ideally one who is open to integrative care.

A notebook for documenting your dog's case.

What to carry forward

This week, take a baseline assessment of your dog (or the dog you'll work with through the course). Note: - Breed and weight - Age - Current diet - Current medications (heartworm preventive, flea/tick, anything prescribed) - Current health concerns - Behavioral patterns (energy, anxiety, sociability) - Coat condition and skin

This baseline becomes the foundation for everything that follows. Next lesson covers dog physiology relevant to herbal practice.