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My 12-year-old dog got into a turmeric supplement and has diarrhea. Is the turmeric the cause?

Dogs · Food safety

Last reviewed: 2026-09-05 · Reference ranges: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline & Merck Veterinary Manual

Short answer

Yes, that amount can definitely upset a senior dog's stomach. Turmeric is safe in tiny amounts, but a whole supplement dose is too much for many dogs, especially older ones. Watch for straining or bloody stool, and offer a bland diet like boiled chicken and rice. Call your own vet if the diarrhea doesn't clear up in a day.

Turmeric — Food safety facts

Safe to share · Dogs · full breakdown on the linked food page

A small pinch is safe and is used in some joint supplements. Large doses upset the stomach.

Dogs and cats carry the same rating (Safe to share), so the notes below hold for either pet.

Turmeric is not toxic to dogs. The real limit is calories, fat and salt, so treat it as a small extra alongside the normal ration rather than a meal in itself.

There is no poisoning risk here, and the usual problem is simply eating too much at once: a heavy fat or salt load can bring on loose stools or a single vomit. Offer water, keep an eye on the pet for 24 hours, and do not induce vomiting.

Turmeric can stay on the rotation, but only as an extra mouthful: keep the rest of the day's food unchanged and watch the next walk and the stool that comes with it.

The full verdict, portion guidance and serving notes are collected on the Turmeric food facts page.

Open the full food page: Turmeric food facts →