What is Diatomaceous Earth?
Diatomaceous earth for dogs is a non-toxic natural substance that can be used to kill fleas, ticks, lice or mites on your dog. It does not contain poison insects as most pharmaceutical products do. The way Diatomaceous works is purely mechanical. The substance comprises razor-sharp particles that piece insects’ protective coating, which makes the bugs dehydrate and die.
Is Diatomaceous earth harmful to pets?
The short answer is no, as long as it is food-grade. Diatomaceous earth is a non-toxic and natural substance. It is made from crushed fossilized organisms and marine life. Diatomaceous earth is deadly to any insect but is entirely harmless to animals.
Will diatomaceous earth dry out my dog’s skin?
Because diatomaceous earth’s mechanism is to dry out insects, it can also lead to dry and itchy skin for your dog. This usually only occurs with excessive use. It’s best to speak with your veterinarian about how often to apply to prevent your dog’s skin irritation.
What is the difference between food-grade diatomaceous earth and regular diatomaceous earth?
The food-grade version is made without the high heat, resulting in less crystalline silica. There still is crystalline silica in the food grade, but it is less than 1%. Food-grade is the ONLY diatomaceous earth that is safe for your pets.
Benefits of diatomaceous earth for dogs
Diatomaceous earth has many incredible benefits to your dog’s overall health. It can help with both internal and external parasites. Internal parasites can be treated by giving diatomaceous earth food. Make sure that you use food-grade only! Diatomaceous earth for dogs can also eliminate worms in your dog and work in as little as seven days of daily feeding.
Diatomaceous earth is effective in killing external insects and parasites. This can be achieved by lightly dusting your dog’s skin with diatomaceous earth. To treat a flea infestation, you must also sprinkle some on his bed and carpeted areas. Diatomaceous earth is also full of minerals such as magnesium, silicon, calcium, sodium, iron, potassium, copper, zinc, phosphorous and selenium.
Have a stinky dog? You can use diatomaceous earth as a natural deodorizer. Sprinkle it on your dog’s coat and leave it for a couple of hours. You can then brush it out.
How much diatomaceous earth should I give my dog?
Internally in dogs, give these amounts:
- Small dogs and puppies: 1/2 tsp per day in food
- Up to 50 lbs: 1 tsp per day in food
- Over 50 lbs: 1 Tbsp per day in food
- 100 lbs or more: 2 Tbsp per day in food
For best results, mix in with raw or moist food. Rub the powder into your dog’s coat for external treatment and prevention. Be sure to avoid the eyes, nose and mouth.
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