Do you sometimes wonder if it’s safe to share herbs from your garden with your four-legged companion? If you’ve ever caught your pup nibbling on your herb garden or considered adding some flavor to their meals, you’re not alone! As a dog owner myself, I’ve often questioned which herbs are safe for my furry friend Today, I’m diving deep into sage and rosemary – two popular culinary herbs that might benefit your canine companion.
The Quick Answer
Yes, dogs can safely eat both sage and rosemary! These herbs are not only safe but can also provide several health benefits when given in appropriate amounts.
According to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), sage is recognized as non-toxic for dogs Similarly, rosemary is safe and can be a beneficial addition to your dog’s diet when used in moderation
Benefits of Sage for Dogs
Sage isn’t just a tasty herb – it can actually support your dog’s health in several ways:
- Immune system support: Sage can help strengthen your dog’s immune system
- Digestive aid: It may help soothe digestive issues
- Breath freshener: Like many herbs, sage can help combat doggy breath
- Anti-inflammatory properties: May help reduce inflammation in the body
One dog owner I know adds a small pinch of dried sage to her senior dog’s food twice a week and swears it has helped with his overall vitality!
Benefits of Rosemary for Dogs
Rosemary also packs a powerful punch when it comes to canine health benefits:
- Heart health support: Promotes cardiovascular health
- Immune system booster: Contains antioxidants that support immune function
- Natural preservative: Often added to dog foods as a natural preservative
- Antibacterial properties: May help fight certain types of bacteria
My neighbor’s dog trainer actually recommends adding a tiny sprinkle of rosemary to homemade dog treats for both flavor and health benefits!
How to Safely Introduce Sage and Rosemary to Your Dog’s Diet
While these herbs are safe, it’s important to introduce them properly:
- Start small: Begin with very small amounts to ensure your dog doesn’t have an adverse reaction
- Use fresh or dried: Both forms are acceptable, though dried herbs are more concentrated
- Mince finely: Especially if using fresh herbs, chop them very finely
- Mix with food: Add the herbs directly to your dog’s regular food
For small dogs, just a pinch (less than 1/4 teaspoon) is plenty. Larger dogs can handle up to a teaspoon of fresh herbs, but start with less.
Proper Dosage Guidelines
It’s crucial not to overdo it when adding herbs to your dog’s diet. Here’s a simple guideline:
| Dog Size | Fresh Sage | Dried Sage | Fresh Rosemary | Dried Rosemary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small (under 20 lbs) | 2-3 leaves | Pinch | 1/4 tsp | Pinch |
| Medium (20-50 lbs) | 3-4 leaves | 1/4 tsp | 1/2 tsp | 1/8 tsp |
| Large (over 50 lbs) | 4-5 leaves | 1/2 tsp | 1 tsp | 1/4 tsp |
Remember, these herbs should be occasional additions, not daily supplements. Even safe herbs can cause stomach upset if given in large quantities!
Warning Signs to Watch For
While sage and rosemary are generally safe, every dog is different. Watch for these signs that could indicate your dog isn’t tolerating the herbs well:
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Changes in appetite
- Lethargy
- Excessive thirst
- Allergic reactions (itching, hives)
If you notice any of these symptoms after introducing herbs, discontinue use and consult your veterinarian.
Other Safe Herbs for Dogs
Beyond sage and rosemary, there are several other herbs that are safe and beneficial for dogs:
- Basil: Supports immune health and has anti-inflammatory properties
- Parsley: Acts as a breath freshener and supports urinary health (in moderation)
- Dill: Aids digestion and may help with bad breath
- Thyme: Contains antioxidants and supports immune health
- Coriander/Cilantro: Helps with digestion and can ease nausea
I’ve personally added small amounts of parsley to my dog’s homemade treats, and she absolutely loves them!
Herbs to AVOID Giving Your Dog
While we’re focusing on safe herbs, it’s equally important to know which herbs and spices to keep away from your four-legged friend:
- Garlic: Contains thiosulfate which can damage red blood cells
- Onions (including powder): Toxic to dogs, can cause anemia
- Chives: Part of the same family as onions and garlic, equally dangerous
- Cocoa powder: Can cause serious cardiac issues
- Nutmeg: Can cause hallucinations and seizures
- Pennyroyal: Highly toxic, can cause liver failure
- Marjoram: Can cause gastric upset
- Oregano: May cause stomach upset and low blood sugar
I once had a scare when my dog got into some garlic bread – we ended up at the emergency vet! So I’m extra cautious now about keeping dangerous herbs and spices well out of reach.
Creative Ways to Use Sage and Rosemary for Your Dog
If you’re convinced about the benefits of these herbs, here are some fun ways to incorporate them:
Homemade Dog Treats with Rosemary
Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/2 cup oatmeal
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary, finely crushed
- 1 egg
- 1/3 cup water
- 1/4 cup olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F
- Mix all ingredients until a dough forms
- Roll out to 1/4 inch thickness
- Cut into desired shapes
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown
- Cool completely before serving
Sage-Infused Dog Food Topper
Add a tiny pinch of dried sage to a tablespoon of plain, unsalted bone broth and drizzle over your dog’s food for a flavor and nutrition boost!
Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), herbs like sage and rosemary are recognized for their healing properties. TCM practitioners sometimes recommend certain herbs as natural remedies for various canine health conditions. If you’re interested in this approach, consult with a veterinarian who specializes in integrative medicine.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dogs and Herbs
Can puppies eat sage and rosemary?
It’s best to wait until puppies are at least 6 months old before introducing herbs like sage and rosemary, and then only in very small amounts.
How often can I give my dog sage or rosemary?
For most dogs, 2-3 times per week is plenty. These should be occasional additions, not daily supplements.
Can dogs eat other parts of the sage or rosemary plant?
While the leaves are safe, it’s best to stick with just the leaves rather than stems or flowers, which may be tougher to digest.
Should I talk to my vet before adding herbs to my dog’s diet?
Absolutely! Any dietary changes should be discussed with your veterinarian, especially if your dog has existing health conditions or is on medication.
Can herbs replace medication for my dog?
No, herbs should be considered supplementary to proper veterinary care, not as replacements for prescribed medications.
Conclusion: Herb-Enhanced Dog Care
Adding sage and rosemary to your dog’s diet can be a wonderful way to enhance their health naturally. These herbs offer numerous benefits from immune support to digestive aid, and most dogs enjoy the additional flavor in their meals.
Remember to start with small amounts, monitor your dog’s reaction, and always consult with your veterinarian before making changes to your pet’s diet.
I’ve seen firsthand how incorporating these herbs can benefit dogs – my friend’s 12-year-old Lab seems to have more energy after they started adding a small amount of rosemary to his food twice a week!
Have you tried adding herbs to your dog’s diet? We’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below!
Disclaimer: While the information in this article is researched and provided with care, it’s not intended to replace professional veterinary advice. Every dog is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. Always consult your veterinarian before making changes to your dog’s diet or health regimen.
What Herbs Are Toxic to Dogs?
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Nobody wants a sick pup, so as a dog owner, it’s essential to know which foods may be harmful to your beloved dog. There are commonly discussed foods that we don’t give to dogs, such as chocolate and caffeine, but specific herbs can often be a bit of a gray area.
Knowing the ingredients in the food you give to your dog is essential in keeping your pooch happy and healthy so you know exactly what to avoid. This is also relevant for any garden fanatics with a dog who loves to snoop around their plants.
There are many herbs you probably don’t even know are toxic to dogs. So, it’s important to read up on which herbs and plants in your garden may harm your dog to save you a trip to the vet.
Discover what herbs are toxic to dogs in this article to avoid giving your favorite furry friend anything that will upset their tummy or health. Read on to discover how to prevent and treat herb poisoning if your dog finds themselves in your herb garden.
Some dog breeds are more sensitive to chives than others, such as Japanese breeds like the Shiba Inu.1 Chives can sometimes be included as flavoring in dog treats, so it’s important to read the ingredient list on your dog’s treats before throwing one their way. Many breeds can tolerate very low doses of chives, but it is strongly advised to avoid chives when possible.2
Chives can cause red blood cell damage by rupturing them, leading to anemia.1 Other symptoms of chive ingestion include drooling, nausea, oral irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal pain, elevated heart rate and respiratory rate, weakness, and exercise intolerance.2
In the same Allium plant family as chives, onion is poisonous to dogs in dried or powdered form as it contains thiosulfate, which is toxic to dogs.1
Ingesting onions can lead to Heinz body hemolytic anemia in dogs, which can cause red blood cell damage and cause them to malfunction or die. Other symptoms of onion ingestion include drooling, nausea, oral irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, abdominal pain, elevated heart rate and respiratory rate, and weakness.
It is normal for a dog to ingest very small amounts of salt, but the lethal amount of salt ingestion for a dog is typically 1.5 grams per kilogram of body weight.1 Salt poisoning can result in vomiting, diarrhea, decreased appetite, lethargy, incoordination, excessive thirst, urination, tremors, seizures, coma, or even death.1
Despite its calming properties, the aromatic plant lavender can be toxic to dogs. Lavender contains linalool, which is a compound toxic to dogs when consumed. Essential oils containing lavender can also cause severe reactions in your pooch, including abdominal pain, bloated abdomen, fever, diarrhea, constipation, loss of appetite, shock, vomiting, trembling in dogs, or difficulty breathing.
Like many of the other herbs on this list, oregano can be ingested in very small quantities. However, oil of oregano and large portions of oregano are toxic to dogs because they can cause gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting and diarrhea.1
Like onion, garlic is very toxic for dogs and can cause Heinz body hemolytic anemia, which can cause red blood cell damage.1 Some symptoms include decreased appetite, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, excess salivation, depression, weakness, exercise intolerance, pale mucous membranes, rapid breathing, rapid heart rate, jaundice, or blood in the urine.
Eucalyptus contains eucalyptol, a gastrointestinal irritant that can be very dangerous to dogs when consumed. The eucalyptus species are toxic to dogs and can cause digestive upset, hypersalivation, weakness, and depression.
Hops can be very dangerous when ingested by dogs as it can cause a potentially life-threatening increase in body temperature called malignant hyperthermia.1 These enormous vines-plants are easy to spot and are dangerous to dogs in all forms: dried, fresh, or cooked.2
Non-Toxic Herbs for Dogs
So now that you know what herbs are toxic to dogs, you may be wondering, “what herbs are non-toxic to dogs?”.
There are a few herbs that are non-toxic for dogs, but you should always consult your veterinarian before introducing any new ingredients to your dog’s diet that is not safe-certified dog food.
Generally, anise, sweet basil, chamomile, cilantro, cinnamon, dill tea, ginger, peppermint, rosemary, sage, thyme, and turmeric are safe in very small quantities on rare occurrences for your dog. 1 In fact there is some speculation that these herbs can even have beneficial effects on your pup, providing they are an adult, healthy dog with no pre-existing conditions.
Small quantities of powdered anise may increase your dog’s energy, while small amounts of sweet basil or chamomile are known for calming overactive or anxious dogs.1 When prepared properly, small amounts of cilantro can help to ease gas or bloating, while small amounts of cinnamon can help to regulate blood sugar.1
While the essential oil form of dill is toxic, dill tea can help with bad breath and flatulence.1 Peppermint has similar effects. 1 Meanwhile, very small amounts of raw ginger can be given to your dog if they are struggling with motion sickness, and there is some evidence that it benefits cognitive support.1 Rosemary, thyme, turmeric, and sage are rich in antioxidants and vitamins. 1
An excessive amount of any of these herbs in a strong oil form may severely affect your dog. None of these herbs should be consumed without permission from your veterinarian.