A commonly referenced lignan dosage for dogs is 1–2 mg of actual lignans per pound of body weight per day, but the right amount can vary by dog and product and should be verified by a veterinarian.
With all these factors to consider, things can get very confusing. Your dog has a weight, your bottle has a serving size, and the label may list flaxseed or flax powder without making the actual lignan content obvious. So which number are you supposed to use?
Below is a simple chart so you can make sense of the numbers without having to play detective every time you refill the bottle.
Lignan Dosage for Dogs by Weight Chart
| Dog's Weight | Approximate Daily Dosage |
|---|---|
| 10 lb | 10–20 mg |
| 20 lb | 20–40 mg |
| 30 lb | 30–60 mg |
| 40 lb | 40–80 mg |
| 50 lb | 50–100 mg |
| 60 lb | 60–120 mg |
| 70 lb | 70–140 mg |
| 80 lb | 80–160 mg |
| 90 lb | 90–180 mg |
| 100 lb | 100–200 mg |
How to Use This Chart With Your Product
The chart gives you a general daily lignan range based on your dog’s weight. To see how that translates to your product, compare the range with the actual amount of lignans per serving listed on the label.
Example: Your dog weighs 40 pounds, and your product provides 20 mg of lignans per serving. According to the chart above, the approximate daily dosage for your dog is 40-80 mg of lignans.
Now, each serving of your product contains lignans in the following amounts:
-
1 serving: 20 mg of lignans
-
2 servings: 40 mg of lignans
- 4 servings: 80 mg of lignans
So, in this example, 2 to 4 servings would provide an amount within the general daily reference range.
Understanding the Lignan Dosage Range
As mentioned above, the commonly referenced starting range for lignans is 1–2 mg of actual lignans per pound of body weight per day. However, the amount that’s appropriate for your dog within that range can depend on the type of lignan, the product you’re using, and your veterinarian’s instructions.
Starting at the lower end can give you a chance to see how your dog responds before making any changes. For a longer-term look at what you may notice as you continue supplementation, see our 90-day lignan and melatonin timeline.
How to Read a Lignan Supplement Label
A lignan supplement label can look more complicated than it needs to be. There may be several amounts and unfamiliar terms to sort through, but only a few details really matter when you’re figuring out what your dog is getting.
Lignan Amount
First, look for the actual milligrams of lignans per serving. This is the number you’ll use to work out your dog’s daily lignan intake. Lignan concentrations can vary, with some flax products containing roughly 1% to 4% lignans. So, 500 mg of flax powder could provide anywhere from around 5 mg to 20 mg of actual lignans.
Lignan Source
You’ll typically come across one of two terms when looking at the lignan source:
- SDG lignans for dogs: A lignan compound found in flaxseed, particularly in the flaxseed hulls.
- HMR lignans for dogs: A lignan compound sourced from Norway spruce.
Both are lignans, but they’re different types, so it’s worth knowing which one is in your dog’s supplement. Veterinary references may use different dosing recommendations for SDG and HMR, which means the type of lignan matters when you’re figuring out what the label means. Learn more with our guide to HMR and SDG lignans.
Serving Size and Daily Total
Next, check what the label means by “per serving.” A serving might be one capsule, one scoop, or another specified amount. If the label says 20 mg of lignans per serving and one serving is two capsules, those two capsules together provide 20 mg.
From there, you can work out your dog’s daily lignan intake:
Lignans per serving × servings per day = daily lignan intake
So, a product providing 20 mg of lignans per serving would provide 40 mg per day if your dog receives two servings.
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Should You Give Lignans Once or Twice a Day?
Some products may be given once a day, while others may have a daily amount that can be divided into two servings.
Start with the directions on your product label. They’ll tell you how much to give and how often, giving you a clear place to start without having to figure it out on your own. If you’re thinking about splitting the daily amount into two servings or changing when you give it, check with your veterinarian first.
What If Your Dog Gains or Loses Weight?
Because lignan dosage is based on your dog’s weight, a significant change in weight may change the amount you calculate for your dog, too. This can be especially worth keeping in mind if you’re researching lignans as part of a wellness routine for a dog with Cushing’s, where weight changes may be something you’re already keeping an eye on.
That doesn’t mean you need to recalculate every time the scale moves a little. Small day-to-day fluctuations are normal, so there’s no need to keep adjusting the amount in response to every change.
If your dog’s weight has changed significantly, revisit the math rather than relying on an old calculation indefinitely. And before making a meaningful change to the amount you give, check with your veterinarian to make sure the updated amount is appropriate for your dog.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Lignan Should I Give My Dog?
A commonly referenced range is 1–2 mg of actual lignans per pound of body weight per day, but the appropriate amount can vary by dog, lignan type, and product. Check the product label and talk with your veterinarian before changing the amount.
Should I Change My Dog’s Lignan Dose If Their Weight Changes?
Yes, a drastic change in your dog’s weight may change the calculation, too. There’s no need to adjust for small day-to-day fluctuations, but if your dog’s weight changes significantly, recheck the math and talk with your veterinarian before changing the amount.
Why Is Melatonin Often Given With Lignans for Dogs With Cushing’s?
Pet parents often research lignans and melatonin together because they’re commonly discussed as part of the same wellness routine for dogs with Cushing’s.
Our melatonin supplements for dogs support normal sleep-wake patterns and are lab-tested for potency and purity, without harmful ingredients. Explore our lab-tested melatonin supplements to find the right option for your dog today.
Can I Split My Dog’s Lignan Dose Into Two Doses?
You may be able to split the daily amount into two doses, but dosing frequency depends on the product and your veterinarian’s instructions. Follow the directions on your specific label, and check with your veterinarian before changing how you divide the daily amount.
What’s the Difference Between SDG and HMR Lignans?
SDG and HMR are two different types of lignans from different sources. SDG is found in flaxseed, particularly the flaxseed hulls, while HMR is sourced from Norway spruce. Veterinary references may also use different dosing recommendations for each, so it’s helpful to know which type your product contains. Explore our lignan supplements.