For those who don’t know me, I am of Hungarian ethnicity, and perhaps that explains my relentless curiosity. Hungary has a rich history of scientific discoveries—contributions that have shaped the world in profound ways. From Ernő Rubik (yes, the Rubik’s cube guy) to John von Neumann (the father of modern computing), Hungarians have a habit of thinking differently. Maybe it’s in the water, maybe it’s in the paprika—but one Hungarian in particular, Albert Szent-Györgyi, made a discovery nearly a century ago that still benefits our dogs today.

While Szent-Györgyi is best known for isolating vitamin C, he also stumbled upon another game-changing group of compounds he initially called “Vitamin P”—what we now recognize as flavonoids. And among these, one superstar molecule stands out: Quercetin.

So why does a nearly forgotten Hungarian scientist from the 1930s matter to our canine companions today? Because quercetin is one of the most powerful natural tools for allergy relief, inflammation control, and immune support—and if you’re not using it yet for your dog, it’s time to start.

Quercetin: The Bioactive Powerhouse Hiding in Your Kitchen

At its core, quercetin is a polyphenolic flavonoid, meaning it is part of a huge family of bioactive plant compounds that act as antioxidants, enzyme modulators, and cellular protectors.

In nature, quercetin is responsible for giving fruits and vegetables their vibrant colors—think apples, blueberries, red onions, and even leafy greens. But its role extends far beyond aesthetics. It serves as a plant’s defense mechanism, protecting it from UV radiation, microbial attacks, and oxidative stress. The incredible part? When consumed, quercetin extends this same protection to mammals, including our dogs.

From a biochemical standpoint, quercetin works as a potent inhibitor of oxidative stress pathways, suppressing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS)—which are responsible for chronic inflammation and cellular damage.

So what does this mean for our dogs?

The Science-Backed Benefits of Quercetin for Dogs

1. Nature’s Antihistamine: Quercetin for Allergies

Dogs with seasonal, environmental, or food allergies often suffer because their mast cells release an excessive amount of histamine, triggering symptoms like:
✔️ Itchy skin
✔️ Inflamed paws
✔️ Chronic ear infections
✔️ Runny eyes & sneezing

Veterinarians often prescribe antihistamines like Benadryl, but quercetin naturally inhibits mast cell degranulation, stopping histamine release at the source. In other words, instead of treating the symptoms, quercetin prevents the allergic reaction before it starts.

How? Quercetin blocks the enzyme tyrosine kinase, which is required for histamine release. Less histamine = fewer allergy symptoms.

Extra tip: Quercetin works even better when paired with bromelain, a proteolytic enzyme that enhances absorption and has its own anti-inflammatory benefits.

2. The Anti-Inflammatory Effects: A Game-Changer for Arthritis

Chronic inflammation is at the root of almost every degenerative disease—from arthritis to heart disease to autoimmune disorders. What makes quercetin unique is its ability to modulate inflammatory pathways at a molecular level.

Specifically, quercetin inhibits:
✔️ NF-kB, the master switch for chronic inflammation
✔️ COX-2, the enzyme targeted by NSAIDs like Rimadyl
✔️ LOX, the enzyme responsible for leukotriene production (which causes airway inflammation in asthma)

By blocking these inflammatory pathways, quercetin acts as a natural alternative to NSAIDs, without the liver and kidney-damaging side effects that pharmaceuticals bring.

For senior dogs or those with joint pain, quercetin is a safe and effective way to improve mobility.

3. Gut Health & Microbiome Modulation

Gut health is foundational to a dog’s overall well-being, and research shows that quercetin supports a balanced microbiome.

✔️ Enhances short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, which improves gut lining integrity
✔️ Reduces gut permeability (“leaky gut”), preventing chronic immune overreaction
✔️ Acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial bacteria

For dogs with IBD, colitis, or chronic diarrhea, quercetin helps reduce gut inflammation and promote healing.

4. The Immune-Boosting & Antiviral Properties of Quercetin

Not all immune disorders result from underactivity—many stem from overactivity, leading to autoimmune diseases.

Quercetin plays a role in:
✔️ Regulating T-cell responses (balancing overactive immunity)
✔️ Preventing excessive cytokine release, which is responsible for autoimmune attacks
✔️ Enhancing mitochondrial function, boosting overall immune resilience

Quercetin is even being studied as an antiviral, showing promise against canine influenza, parvovirus, and kennel cough due to its ability to inhibit viral replication.

5. Cardiovascular Protection: A Natural Blood Pressure Regulator

A 2019 study found that quercetin helps prevent atherosclerosis by modulating lipid metabolism and improving endothelial function.

✔️ Reduces LDL oxidation (preventing plaque buildup)
✔️ Improves nitric oxide bioavailability, which enhances blood vessel dilation
✔️ Lowers blood pressure through ACE inhibition (similar to certain heart medications)

For dogs prone to heart disease, quercetin is an excellent preventative supplement.

Quercetin for Dogs: Dosage, Safety & Bioavailability

While quercetin is naturally found in some foods, the problem is bioavailability—dogs don’t absorb it well from food alone.

Dosage Guidelines:

A common veterinary dosage is 5 mg per pound of body weight per day.

Dog’s Weight Daily Quercetin Dose
10 lbs 50 mg
25 lbs 125 mg
50 lbs 250 mg
100 lbs 500 mg

💡 Pro Tip: Look for liposomal or fermented quercetin supplements, which enhance absorption by up to 20x.

The Hungarian Legacy: Why This Discovery Still Matters Today

Albert Szent-Györgyi’s discovery of flavonoids nearly 90 years ago was far ahead of its time. While modern medicine pushed synthetic drugs, his work emphasized nature’s ability to heal.

As a Hungarian myself, I feel deeply connected to this history. It’s a reminder that science should serve life, not the other way around. That’s why I advocate for natural solutions—not because they’re trendy, but because they work, they heal, and they honor the way life was designed to function.

Whether you’re raising dogs naturally like I do or just beginning your journey, one thing is clear: what we feed our dogs, how we support their bodies, and the choices we make today determine their long-term health.

Where to Get High-Quality Quercetin for Your Dog?

Not all quercetin supplements are created equal. Look for:
✔️ Fermented or liposomal quercetin (for superior absorption)
✔️ Paired with bromelain (to enhance anti-inflammatory effects)
✔️ Free of fillers & synthetic additives

How to Incorporate Quercetin Into Your Dog’s Routine

Now that we know quercetin is a powerhouse, the next question is: How do we use it effectively?

Best Ways to Supplement Quercetin for Dogs

1.  Quercetin Supplements – The most reliable way to ensure therapeutic levels of quercetin is through high-quality, properly formulated supplements. Since quercetin’s bioavailability is naturally low, I recommend looking for:
•   Liposomal quercetin – This encapsulation technology increases absorption up to 20 times.
•   Fermented quercetin – Naturally broken down for easier digestion and better uptake.
•   Quercetin paired with bromelain – The enzyme enhances quercetin absorption and provides its own anti-inflammatory benefits.
2.  Quercetin-Rich Foods – While food sources alone won’t provide high enough doses for serious therapeutic effects, they can still support overall health.
•   Berries (blueberries, blackberries, raspberries)
3.  Quercetin in Herbal Form – Some herbs naturally contain quercetin alongside other beneficial compounds:
•   Stinging Nettle – A natural antihistamine and anti-inflammatory, great for allergy-prone dogs.
•   Ginkgo Biloba – Supports cognitive function and circulation while delivering a flavonoid-rich boost.
4.  DIY Quercetin Treats – If you love getting creative, you can make homemade quercetin dog treats by incorporating quercetin powder into:
•   Goat milk or kefir-based frozen treats
•   Gelatin-based gummies with bone broth and turmeric

Does Quercetin Have Any Side Effects for Dogs?

When used correctly, quercetin is extremely safe. However, like anything, proper dosing is key.

💡 Potential Side Effects of Overdosing Quercetin:
✅ Mild digestive upset (loose stool, slight nausea) – This happens when doses are too high for the dog’s size.
✅ Blood-thinning effects – While beneficial for cardiovascular health, dogs already on blood thinners (aspirin, Plavix, etc.) should use quercetin with caution.
✅ Slower drug metabolism – Quercetin inhibits CYP3A4, an enzyme in the liver responsible for breaking down certain drugs. If your dog is on medications, consult a holistic veterinarian before supplementing.

Bottom Line: Stick to the recommended 5 mg per pound of body weight per day to stay within a safe and effective range.

Why Conventional Medicine Overlooks Quercetin (And Why That’s a Mistake)

Let’s be blunt: Quercetin is not patentable.

The pharmaceutical industry thrives on patented drugs, which is why synthetic antihistamines, NSAIDs, and immunosuppressants dominate veterinary medicine. Meanwhile, safe, natural compounds like quercetin—which have been extensively researched—get ignored.

Why is this a mistake?

•   Antihistamines (like Apoquel or Benadryl) only block histamine receptors, they don’t prevent histamine from being released. Quercetin gets to the root cause by stopping mast cells from releasing histamine in the first place.
•   NSAIDs (like Rimadyl and Previcox) come with serious side effects, including GI bleeding, kidney damage, and liver toxicity. Quercetin naturally inhibits COX-2 and LOX enzymes, just like NSAIDs, but without harming the gut lining or liver.
•   Steroids (like Prednisone) shut down inflammation, but at the cost of suppressing the immune system. Quercetin modulates immunity rather than suppressing it, making it far safer for long-term use.

This isn’t to say modern medicine has no place—but wouldn’t it make sense to start with natural, non-toxic solutions first?

Quercetin for Dogs: The Future of Natural Veterinary Care

We are entering a new era of veterinary medicine, where science is finally catching up with nature. What Albert Szent-Györgyi discovered in the 1930s—that flavonoids like quercetin have extraordinary health benefits—is being validated by modern research today.

As someone who lives and breathes natural rearing, I truly believe we owe it to our dogs to do better. Not just follow the mainstream, but question, research, and apply knowledge in a way that respects the natural wisdom of their bodies.

That’s why I choose to incorporate quercetin into my dogs’ lives, and why I urge others to explore its benefits.

Will quercetin replace every pharmaceutical? No.
But should it be the first line of defense for allergies, inflammation, and immune support? Absolutely.

Final Thoughts: Should You Start Using Quercetin for Your Dog?

If your dog struggles with:
✅ Seasonal or environmental allergies (itching, inflamed skin, chronic ear infections)
✅ Arthritis or joint inflammation
✅ Chronic digestive issues (leaky gut, IBD, food sensitivities)
✅ Autoimmune disease or immune imbalances
✅ General inflammation and oxidative stress

Then quercetin could be a game-changer.

And unlike pharmaceutical drugs that often suppress symptoms, quercetin supports healing at the root cause.

Where to Find the Best Quercetin for Dogs

Not all supplements are created equal, so here’s what to look for:
✔️ Fermented or liposomal quercetin for maximum bioavailability
✔️ Paired with bromelain to enhance anti-inflammatory effects
✔️ Non-GMO, no synthetic fillers, and third-party tested

I’m happy to recommend trusted sources—just reach out if you need guidance!

To thriving beasts and lasting health,
Timea R. Bodi

P.S. My Challenge to You

You’ve made it this far, so here’s my challenge:
💡 Try quercetin for 30 days and observe the difference. Take notes. Watch your dog. Notice changes in itching, energy, digestion, joint mobility.

Let’s put natural health to the test—because at the end of the day, the proof is always in the results.

Let me know how it goes!

Disclaimer: Before making any changes to your dog’s diet, lifestyle, or supplement routine, consult your veterinarian—preferably one who doesn’t think kibble is a food group and vaccines are a monthly subscription service.

Also : Stacking supplements on top of kibble, routine vaccines, chemical dewormers, flea meds, and a toxin-filled home is like putting a bandage on a bullet wound—fix the root, not just the symptoms.