Glandulars

What Are Glandular Supplements?

Glandulars are supplements made from freeze-dried organs and glands of animals—typically bovine (cow) or porcine (pig) sources. The idea behind glandular therapy is the concept of “like supports like,” a principle found in both Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine and early Western naturopathic approaches.

In simple terms: feeding liver supports liver health, feeding adrenal glands supports adrenal function, and so on.

How Glandulars Work

These supplements provide:

• Organ-specific peptides and enzymes to nourish and support the corresponding organ in your dog

• Naturally occurring vitamins, minerals, and cofactors found in the tissues

• Bioavailable nutrients that are more easily absorbed than synthetic versions

• Energetic support aligned with TCVM principles (e.g., warming/cooling properties)

They may be especially helpful when a dog has a deficiency, organ stress, or genetic weakness in a specific system.

Common Glandulars and Their Uses

• Liver Glandular
  Supports detoxification, bile production, digestion, and recovery from medications or liver damage.
  Often used in dogs with elevated liver enzymes, toxin exposure, or chronic inflammation.

• Kidney Glandular
  Helps support renal tissue, hydration balance, and electrolyte regulation.
  Beneficial in aging dogs or those with early kidney stress (e.g., before bloodwork shows pathology).

• Pancreas Glandular
  Used for dogs with pancreatic insufficiency or poor digestion.
  Often combined with digestive enzymes.

• Adrenal Glandular
  Supports dogs under chronic stress, with suspected adrenal dysfunction (Cushing’s or Addison’s tendencies), or those needing help regulating cortisol.

• Thyroid Glandular
  Supports metabolism and thyroid health, though it should never be used without thyroid testing due to the risk of over-supplementation.

• Heart Glandular
  May benefit dogs with cardiovascular concerns or breeds prone to Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM).
  Contains naturally occurring CoQ10, taurine, and other heart-supportive compounds.

• Brain Glandular
  Helps support cognitive function in senior dogs and may aid puppies with developmental issues.
  Sometimes used in seizure dogs for neuro-nourishment.

• Spleen, Thymus, and Lymph Glandulars
  Immune-modulating; help support lymphatic detox, red and white blood cell production, and general immune defense.

When to Use Glandulars

Consider glandular support when:

• Your dog has a known organ-related condition

• You want to prevent degeneration in a genetically vulnerable breed (e.g., kidney support in senior Shih Tzus)

• Bloodwork or symptoms suggest functional stress (e.g., fatigue, poor digestion, muscle loss)

• You're feeding a homemade diet that may lack specific organ variety

• You're supporting a detox, recovery, or regeneration protocol

How to Choose a Glandular Supplement

• Choose a single-source or blend based on your dog’s needs (e.g., just liver vs. a full multi-gland formula).

• Prefer grass-fed, hormone-free sources.

• Look for freeze-dried or desiccated (not heat-treated) to preserve nutrients.

• Avoid added synthetic vitamins, fillers, or artificial flavors.

• Choose bovine over porcine if your dog has pork sensitivity.

Some trusted brands are available through our affiliate products list here.

Do Glandulars Replace Organs in the Diet?

Not entirely — but can be helpful if:

• Your dog won’t eat raw organs or your don’t have access to organs (RAW diets)

• You're feeding cooked meals (which may degrade organ nutrients)

• You’re targeting a specific health issue

• You’re rotating through various support supplements seasonally

Wrap Up

Glandulars are a powerful tool in your wellness toolbox, offering nutritional, functional, and energetic support. When used correctly, they can help restore balance and vitality—especially when paired with a fresh, species-appropriate diet and lifestyle.

If you're not sure where to start or need help choosing the right blend, reach out in our forum or schedule a consult.

Statements in this blog have not been evaluated by the FDA. Educational content only. Not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.