- Not a substitute for professional veterinary help.
Basil is a fragrant herb known for its bright green leaves and refreshing flavor. You might add fresh or dried basil to your cooking, but this herb isn’t just for people! Dogs can eat basil safely, experts say.
Both fresh and dried basil are safe for dogs to eat in moderation, explains Dr. Cailin Heinze, VMD, DACVIM (Nutrition) and Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionist.
Basil is healthy for dogs to eat in small quantities. It’s anti-inflammatory and contains a high level of antioxidants that may help prevent many types of illnesses, including cancer. Basil may also help prevent cellular damage, calm an anxious dog, and ease arthritis pain.
Read on to discover the potential health benefits of basil, how to give it to dogs, and possible health risks to consider.
Is Basil Nutritious For Dogs?
Basil boasts a surprising amount of nutritional value. It’s packed with vitamins K, A, and C, along with minerals like manganese and iron. These nutrients play an important role in supporting your dog’s overall health.
That said, there aren’t any specific health benefits of giving your pup basil, Dr. Heinze says. If your dog eats a well-balanced diet that consists of a commercially available dog food, they’re getting all the vitamins and minerals they need to maintain good health.
Even though basil isn’t likely to give your dog any kind of health boost, this nutritious herb can make a good alternative to store-bought, fatty treats.
Health benefits of basil include:
- Anti-inflammatory properties: Basil can help reduce inflammation for dogs with inflammatory conditions like arthritis.
- Antioxidants: Basil is a powerful antioxidant. Antioxidants can help fight cell damage and may help prevent diseases.
- Blood sugar control: Some studies have found that basil leaves may help regulate blood sugar in animals with diabetes.
- Immune system support: The vitamins in basil can help promote the health of your dog’s immune system.
Are There Risks Of Dogs Eating Basil?
Though basil offers many potential benefits, it’s important to consider a few health risks before giving it to your dog.
- Digestive upset: Some dogs may not tolerate basil well. It’s best to start with a small amount to check if your dog has any digestive problems like diarrhea or vomiting.
- Allergies: Allergic reactions to basil are rare but still possible. Signs to pay attention to include itching, swelling, or hair loss. If you notice any of these symptoms, stop feeding your dog basil and contact your vet right away.
- Pesto and other basil products: Basil is safe for dogs on its own, but you should avoid giving your dog basil products that include other ingredients. Pesto, for example, contains a lot of oil, garlic, and parmesan. “High fat foods can cause GI upset or even pancreatitis, while fresh garlic can be toxic, and parmesan can be really high in salt,” Dr. Heinze says.
How To Prepare Basil For Your Dog
Dr. Heinze recommends giving your dog no more than a few leaves or a teaspoon or so of dried basil per day.
Start with a small amount of basil to find out how your dog likes it. A few ideas for incorporating basil into your dog’s diet include:
- Food topper: You can sprinkle some basil onto your dog’s food to act as a food topper.
- Treats: Make homemade treats, like pizza bone dog treats.
- Enrichment experience: You can offer your dog a whole, fresh leaf to enjoy as a new taste to experience.
Whenever you introduce new foods or make significant changes to a dog’s diet, it’s always best to ask your vet first. Your vet can offer more guidance on your dog’s specific dietary needs and make recommendations for offering new foods.
What Other Herbs And Spices Can Dogs Eat?
If your pup turns their nose up at basil, you can try adding other herbs to their food, instead. A few options for dog-friendly herbs include:
- Ginger: Ginger is known to help calm stomach distress. A small piece of ginger can go a long way, especially for dogs!
- Parsley: Parsley is packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and other nutrients.
- Rosemary: Rosemary is a fragrant herb with many anti-inflammatory properties.
- Turmeric: Turmeric is a bright gold spice known for its anti-inflammatory properties and may benefit dogs with joint pain.
Even though these herbs and spices are dog-friendly, it’s still important to introduce them to your pup slowly, in moderation. Some dogs may not tolerate them as well as others.