Adding fresh or dried herbs to your dog’s diet can be a fantastic way to boost their nutrition, improve their breath, and add variety to their meals. However, while many culinary herbs are safe and beneficial, some common plants found in your kitchen or garden can be toxic to canines. Knowing the difference is critical for your pet’s safety.
Here is a guide to which herbs are safe for your dog, which ones you must avoid, and how to properly prepare them for maximum health benefits.
The Short Answer: Can Dogs Eat Herbs?
Yes, dogs can eat many common kitchen herbs. In fact, high-quality dog foods often include herbs like rosemary and oregano for their preservative qualities and antioxidant content. When used correctly, herbs act as natural supplements that support digestion, skin health, and the immune system.
However, moderation is key. Herbs should be treated as a garnish or a supplement rather than a meal. A pinch of the right herb can help, but a handful could cause digestive upset.
Safe and Beneficial Herbs for Dogs
You can safely introduce the following herbs into your dog’s diet. These offer distinct health advantages when fed in small, controlled amounts.
Parsley
Curly parsley is one of the best herbs for dogs. It is rich in beta-carotene, calcium, and potassium. Most notably, it acts as a natural breath freshener.
- Best for: Beating “doggy breath” and supporting kidney health.
- Caution: Avoid “Spring Parsley” (Cymopterus watsonii), which is a wild carrot relative and can be toxic. Stick to the culinary curly variety found in grocery stores.
Basil
Basil is safe for dogs and contains high levels of antioxidants, which help prevent cellular damage. It also possesses anti-inflammatory properties that can help dogs with arthritis.
- Best for: Anxious dogs (it has mood-boosting properties) and senior dogs with joint pain.
Rosemary
This woody herb is high in iron, calcium, and Vitamin B6. It is largely safe and acts as a natural preservative due to its antimicrobial properties.
- Best for: Cognitive support and digestion.
- Caution: Do not feed rosemary to dogs with a history of seizures or epilepsy. While generally safe, rosemary can act as a neurological trigger in susceptible dogs.
Oregano
Oregano is high in antioxidants and flavonoids. Many dog owners use it to help settle digestive problems. Because it is potent, you only need a very small amount to see benefits.
- Best for: Immune system support and digestive health.
Mint (Peppermint)
Peppermint can soothe an upset stomach and alleviate nausea. Like parsley, it is excellent for freshening breath.
- Best for: Motion sickness or mild gas.
- Caution: Monitor quantity closely. Too much can lead to liver or kidney stress.
Thyme
Thyme contains thymol, an antiseptic that can help fight gingivitis. It is also good for the digestive tract and is sometimes used to help with parasitic issues (though it should not replace veterinary care for parasites).
- Best for: Oral hygiene and antibacterial support.
Cilantro (Coriander)
Cilantro is known for supporting detoxification and digestion. It can help the body process heavy metals and settle a queasy stomach.
- Best for: Dogs with sensitive stomachs.
Toxic Herbs to Avoid Immediately
Not every plant in your herb garden is safe. You must ensure your dog does not have access to these common toxic herbs.
Chives, Garlic, and Leeks (The Allium Family)
While garlic is controversial (some holistic vets use it in tiny amounts), generally speaking, the Allium family—including chives, onions, and leeks—should be avoided. They contain thiosulfate, which causes oxidative damage to red blood cells, leading to hemolytic anemia.
- Risk: Lethargy, pale gums, rapid heart rate, and collapse.
Pennyroyal
While culinary mint is safe, Pennyroyal looks similar but is highly toxic. It contains puguleone, which causes severe liver damage.
- Risk: Liver failure and death.
Comfrey
Comfrey was once popular for wound healing, but internal consumption is dangerous for dogs. It contains alkaloids that can cause liver issues.
- Risk: Liver toxicity.
Hops
If you are a home brewer, keep your hops secure. Hops trigger malignant hyperthermia in dogs, causing their body temperature to skyrocket rapidly.
- Risk: Panting, seizure, and fatal hyperthermia.
How to Prepare and Serve Herbs
Dogs do not have the same digestive enzymes as herbivores. This means they cannot break down the cellulose walls of plant matter efficiently. If you throw a whole leaf of basil into their bowl, it will likely pass through them undigested.
To ensure your dog absorbs the nutrients:
- Chop Finely or Puree: Use a knife to mince fresh herbs as finely as possible, or run them through a food processor. This breaks the cell walls so your dog’s body can access the vitamins.
- Use Fresh Over Dried: Fresh herbs usually contain more active enzymes and vitamins. If you must use dried herbs, use only a quarter of the amount you would use for fresh, as the flavor and oils are concentrated.
- Sprinkle on Top: Mix the minced herbs directly into wet food or sprinkle them over kibble. You can also freeze herbs in ice cube trays with bone broth for a healthy summer treat.
Important Precautions and Dosage
Before you start adding a salad to your dog’s bowl, keep these safety tips in mind regarding dosage and medical history.
Start Small
Introduce only one herb at a time. Start with a tiny pinch. Watch your dog for 24 hours to ensure there is no allergic reaction or gastric upset (vomiting or diarrhea). If they tolerate it well, you can gradually increase the amount.
Recommended Dosage:
- Small dogs: A small pinch.
- Medium dogs: 1/2 teaspoon to 1 teaspoon (fresh).
- Large dogs: 1 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon (fresh).
Avoid Essential Oils
There is a massive difference between the fresh herb and its essential oil concentrate. Never feed essential oils to your dog unless directed by a veterinarian. Oils like tea tree, peppermint, and oregano can be highly toxic and corrosive to a dog’s mucous membranes when undiluted. Stick to the leafy plant.
Pregnant or Nursing Dogs
If your dog is pregnant or lactating, avoid culinary herbs unless approved by your vet. Some herbs, like parsley and rosemary, can stimulate the uterus or affect milk production.
Check for Pesticides
If you are buying herbs from the supermarket, wash them thoroughly to remove pesticides and chemicals. Ideally, use organic herbs or grow them yourself to ensure they are free from harmful sprays.
By choosing safe varieties like parsley, basil, and rosemary, and preparing them correctly, you can use herbs to enhance your dog’s diet naturally and effectively.