Yellow Dock

Rumex crispus

Evidence: CFamily: Polygonaceae

Gentle laxative and liver alterative rich in iron and anthraquinones; supports anemia, sluggish bowels, and skin conditions. Oxalate content limits use in some species.

Consult Your Veterinarian First

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before using herbal remedies for your pet — especially if they are on medication, pregnant, or have existing health conditions.

Species Safety

An herb safe for one species may be toxic to another.

Dogs

Safe

Duration: moderate term

Pregnancy: cautionYoung: caution

Cats

Use Caution

Duration: short term

Pregnancy: unsafeYoung: unsafe

Horses

Safe

Duration: moderate term

Pregnancy: cautionYoung: caution

Rabbits

Unsafe

Duration: not recommended

Pregnancy: unsafeYoung: unsafe

Birds

Use Caution

Duration: short term

Pregnancy: unsafeYoung: unsafe

Guinea Pigs

Unsafe

Duration: not recommended

Pregnancy: unsafeYoung: unsafe

Dosing Guide

General guidance only — always consult your veterinarian.

SpeciesFormDoseFrequencyNotes
Dogsglycerin tincture0.25-0.5 ml /kgtwice dailyPer 10kg; short courses 1-2 weeks for constipation or anemia support.
Horsesdried herb15-30 gramsonce dailyFor 450kg horse; iron tonic and gentle laxative for 2-4 week courses.
Dogsdried herb0.25-0.5 tsp /kgonce dailyPer 10kg dried root; decoction preferred for root extraction.

Active Compounds

Emodin(glycoside)Cat Unsafe
Rumicin(glycoside)Cat Unsafe
Oxalic acid(other)Cat Unsafe
Iron complexes(other)

Compounds marked Cat Unsafe (phenols and many terpenes) cannot be metabolized by feline livers.

Safety Warnings

Surgery Warning

Not for rabbits, guinea pigs, or animals with urinary crystals. Short courses only.

Essential Oil Form

Traditional evidence solid; limited modern clinical data. Use cautiously with species-specific risks.

Quick Info

Plant Family

Polygonaceae

Parts Used

root

Available Forms

dried herb, glycerin tincture, alcohol tincture, capsule

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