The following information is a summary and review based on Dr. Candy’s professional experience and recommendations. Any summary or statement has not been provided nor influenced by the manufacturer.
Hi there, I’m Dr. Candy Akers, a holistic veterinarian who loves helping pets feel their best through natural, whole-food nutrition. Today, I want to talk about one of my favorite supplements for liver and digestive support: Cholacol® by Standard Process.
I’ve seen this formula make a real difference for dogs struggling with sluggish digestion, fatty meals, or mild liver stress. It supports healthy bile flow, which helps your dog break down fats and absorb nutrients more efficiently. When the liver and digestive system work better, the whole body benefits.
Let’s look at what makes Cholacol special, how it works, and how to use it safely and effectively.
What is Cholacol® by Standard Process?
Cholacol is a whole-food supplement made by Standard Process, a trusted company that’s been creating high-quality natural formulas since 1929.
The name comes from “chola,” meaning bile—because this product helps support bile production and flow. Bile is a fluid produced by the liver that’s essential for digesting fats. When bile isn’t flowing well, dogs can experience indigestion, bloating, or even dull coats due to poor fat absorption.
What’s inside:
- Collinsonia root (stone root): A traditional herb used to calm and support the digestive tract. It helps maintain healthy mucous membranes and supports the body’s natural inflammatory response.
- Purified bovine bile salts: These aid in breaking down and absorbing dietary fats, supporting the liver and gallbladder’s workload.
Together, these ingredients promote smoother digestion and healthier liver function—especially in dogs that eat high-fat diets, have occasional digestive upset, or need liver support.
Why I Recommend Cholacol for Dogs
Healthy digestion starts with the liver and gallbladder. Cholacol supports both by improving bile flow and fat metabolism. Here’s how it helps:
Key Benefits:
- Supports liver function: Helps the liver process and remove toxins more efficiently.
- Improves fat digestion: Reduces issues like greasy stools, bloating, and poor nutrient absorption.
- Eases digestive discomfort: Promotes balanced digestion and regular bowel movements.
- Enhances nutrient absorption: Better digestion means better use of vitamins, fatty acids, and other nutrients.
- Promotes skin and coat health: When fats are properly absorbed, you’ll often notice a shinier coat and healthier skin.
Many of my clients have noticed their dogs acting more comfortable after meals, with improved stools and energy levels once Cholacol became part of their routine.
How Cholacol Works in the Body
Think of Cholacol as giving your dog’s liver a helping hand. Here’s what it does:
- Stimulates bile flow: The bile salts encourage the gallbladder to release bile more effectively, improving digestion and fat breakdown.
- Reduces liver stress: Better fat metabolism lightens the liver’s workload, supporting detoxification.
- Supports the gut lining: Collinsonia root helps soothe the digestive tract and supports healthy elimination.
Because digestion affects everything from energy to immune health, supporting these functions can improve your dog’s overall vitality.
Common Dog Health Issues Cholacol Can Support
I often suggest Cholacol for dogs dealing with:
- Fatty liver or mild liver enzyme elevation
- Digestive upset after rich or fatty meals
- Irregular stools or constipation
- Post-gallbladder surgery recovery
- Dry, flaky skin linked to poor fat absorption
For some dogs, I combine Cholacol with cold laser therapy or nutritional detox support as part of a broader holistic care plan. These therapies work well together to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and support the body’s natural healing.
If you’re not sure whether Cholacol fits your pet’s needs, I offer online holistic consultations to help you create a custom plan.
How to Give Cholacol to Your Dog
Suggested use:
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs): ½ tablet twice daily
- Medium dogs (21–50 lbs): 1 tablet twice daily
- Large dogs (over 50 lbs): 1 tablet twice daily
You can give Cholacol directly by mouth or crush it into your dog’s food. If your pup resists tablets, tuck them into a small treat or use a pill pocket.
Tips:
- Give with food for best absorption.
- Be consistent—most dogs show improvement after a few weeks.
- Always check with your vet before starting any supplement, especially if your dog takes prescription medications.
Possible Side Effects & Safety Tips
Cholacol is generally very gentle. However, a few dogs may experience mild digestive changes such as soft stool or decreased appetite when first starting.
If you notice vomiting, diarrhea, or fatigue, stop the supplement and call your veterinarian. These signs are uncommon but worth monitoring.
Safety reminders:
- Follow the dosage carefully—more isn’t better.
- Avoid use in dogs with severe gallbladder blockage unless advised by a vet.
- Introduce gradually if your dog has a sensitive stomach.
Final Thoughts
Supporting your dog’s liver and digestion naturally can have a ripple effect on their whole body—more energy, better nutrient absorption, and a healthier coat. Cholacol by Standard Process is one of my go-to tools for achieving that balance.
If you’d like to try Cholacol or explore other natural solutions for your pet’s health, you can purchase it directly through me at Journeys Holistic Life.
And if your dog needs a customized wellness plan, I offer online holistic consultations to help you find the right supplements, diet, and therapies for their specific needs.
Your dog’s body has an incredible ability to heal when given the right support—and I’m here to guide you on that journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cholacol® is a whole-food supplement I often recommend for dogs that need extra liver or digestive support. It combines two key ingredients: collinsonia root (a soothing herb that supports the digestive tract) and purified bovine bile salts, which help your dog break down and absorb fats more efficiently. Together, they promote smoother digestion, better nutrient absorption, and a healthier liver.
Cholacol supports your dog’s natural fat digestion and liver detoxification process.
Here’s how it helps:
– Bile salts assist with emulsifying fats, which means they help break fats into smaller pieces for easier digestion.
– Collinsonia root encourages healthy elimination and supports the lining of the digestive tract.
By improving bile flow and fat metabolism, Cholacol helps reduce strain on the liver and supports your dog’s overall digestive comfort.
The amount depends on your dog’s size, diet, and health needs. In most cases, I suggest giving ½ to 1 tablet twice daily, but it’s always best to confirm the right amount through a veterinary consultation.
You can offer Cholacol directly as a treat or crumble it into your dog’s meal. Consistency is key—most dogs show noticeable improvement in digestion within a few weeks.
Cholacol is very gentle and generally well tolerated. Occasionally, a dog may experience mild digestive changes (like softer stool) as their system adjusts.
If your dog has a sensitive stomach or liver condition, start slowly and monitor for changes. Always check with your veterinarian before starting any new supplement.
Yes, but I always recommend reviewing your dog’s full medication list before adding any supplement. Cholacol is safe in most cases, but since it affects bile flow and digestion, your vet can confirm that it fits well with your dog’s current treatment plan.
