Ginger adds a distinctive warmth to many foods and beverages, from spicy gingerbread to a comforting pumpkin spice latte. Beyond its flavour, ginger offers some health benefits—for people and for dogs. Experts say dogs can eat ginger safely, but only in small amounts.
If you’re giving your dog ginger, you’ll want to only feed them a small amount at a time, like a pinch of powdered ginger or a small slice of fresh ginger. Too much ginger can give your dog an upset stomach.
Read on to learn more about ginger for dogs, including health benefits, ways to prepare, and possible health risks.
Is Ginger Nutritious For Dogs?
Ginger is the root of the tropical Zingiber officinale plant, which is native to Southeast Asia. You can find this popular spice in many different traditional medicines and supplements, as well as foods and drinks, including:
- gingerbread
- gingersnap cookies
- ginger ale
- ginger tea
- crystallised ginger
Always avoid giving your dog baked goods and other food containing ginger, since these tend to have other ingredients that may not be good for dogs, like sugar and nutmeg.
Too much sugar and fat in your dog’s diet can cause the painful condition pancreatitis, which can be fatal. Nutmeg also contains myristicin. Too much myristicin can cause nausea and hallucinations in people, but it’s toxic to dogs.
Health Benefits Of Ginger For Dogs
Ginger has some health benefits for dogs, as it does for humans, says Dr Jamie Clanin, DVM, a veterinary advisor for PetLab Co.
This spice has anti-inflammatory properties. It may also help regulate blood sugar, ease nausea and motion sickness, and improve digestion.
In fact, you’ll find ginger in some dog treats and supplements designed to support your dog’s digestive system.
Does Ginger Have Any Risks For Dogs?
“When dogs consume ginger in small amounts, there are no health risks,” Dr Clanin says. “The flavour could cause your pup to behave strangely.” They may make funny faces, smack their lips, or even foam at the mouth, but this isn’t dangerous.
She adds that dogs may not like the taste of ginger. If you accidentally drop a large piece of ginger on the floor while cooking, your dog may sniff it but they’re unlikely to eat it.
If they do eat it, they could choke, Dr Clanin says. “Always make sure to use ginger products that are made for dogs and in pieces that are an appropriate size for your pup,” she adds.
Excessive ginger consumption can cause gastrointestinal upset, such as vomiting and diarrhoea.
If you notice these or any other adverse reactions, speak to your vet for advice. As with any new food, introduce ginger to your dog’s diet slowly, recommends Dr Jessica Apted, DVM, regional medical director at Sploot Veterinary Care in Denver, USA. “Monitor your dog for any adverse reactions and consult your vet if you have any concerns,” she adds.
How To Prepare Ginger For Dogs
“The safest and easiest way to give ginger to your pup is to use a treat or supplement that already contains it. These are usually flavoured in more acceptable ways for your dog and may contain additional beneficial ingredients such as pre or probiotics.”
If you’d prefer to use powdered or fresh ginger, Dr Apted recommends starting by mixing small amounts of powdered or sliced fresh ginger into your dog’s food. Dogs can eat ginger skin, but you can also remove it.
Cooking ginger helps to mellow the taste. To cook, add a small piece of ginger to a pan of water and boil for two minutes. Once the ginger cools, cut it into smaller pieces and add them to your dog’s food. Then, you can add lemon and honey to the water and enjoy it as a hot drink.
Other Dog-Safe Herbs And Spices
Some dogs enjoy trying a variety of flavours. If your dog is an adventurous eater, you can safely add a pinch of these herbs and spices to their meals:
However, some spices and seasonings are dangerous or toxic to dogs. Avoid feeding your dog:
- nutmeg
- garlic
- salt
- mace
- cocoa powder
