Can Dogs Eat Basil? Is the Pesto Herb Bad for Dogs?

Basil is a herb that is often used in Italian cuisine and in dishes such as pizza, spaghetti, lasagna, tomato sauces or pesto. The dominant components of its aroma are eugenol, caryophyllene, linalool, methyl chavicol (estragole), and humulene. It also contains essential oils that provide anti-inflammatory, antibiotic and antioxidant benefits. So can dogs eat basil?

Health Benefits of Basil for Dogs

There are some herbs that can be safely consumed by dogs. But can dogs eat basil? Before we answer that question, let’s look at the properties of this particular herb.

• Eugenol is responsible for the spicy, clove-like flavor of basil. It can potentially reduce free radicals.
• Caryophyllene can help with inflammatory conditions such as arthritis.
• Linalool is known for its stress-relieving properties.
• Humulene can potentially reduce inflammation.

Knowing all the health benefits of this culinary herb, can dogs eat basil safely? The simple answer to that question is: yes, they can, since basil is not harmful for dogs and can be added as a seasoning to regular meals. Fresh basil is also good for our furry friends.

Basil helps with canker sores, protection against osteoarthritis and cancer, and healing of cuts and wounds. It can also reduce pain in the gums, can be used as mosquito repellent, and dispel flatulence. It can even lower blood sugar levels in diabetic dogs.

Can Dogs Eat Basil in Dishes?

Usually, basil is an addition to other meals, which can contain ingredients that are dangerous for dogs. Basil itself shouldn’t be harmful for dogs, but is often used in conjunction with onions and garlic, which are toxic to dogs. For example, pesto is mostly made with basil, but recipes also call for a few cloves of garlic.

Symptoms of garlic toxicity in dogs include diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain, and anemia. Always make sure that all the ingredients are safe for dogs before you give your pup any human food.

How Much Basil Can Dogs Eat?

To use basil as a spice in your dog’s food, you shouldn’t give them more than 1/2 teaspoon per 10 pounds of body weight once or twice daily. A moderate amount of basil leaves or dried basil are a perfect addition to a dog’s meal. Dogs can eat basil and the list of its health benefits is long.

Editor’s Note

Some dogs may be allergic to certain herbs and spices, including basil. The allergic reaction may cause itchy, red skin. It can also cause the dog to vomit if they eat too much of it. If your dog doesn’t exhibit any allergy symptoms after eating basil, you can add basil to their diet without concerns.

Do Dogs Like Basil?

Many dogs enjoy the smell and taste of basil. However, some may not like it very much. Always test a small amount before adding large amounts to your dog’s food to ensure that they will eat it without any problems. You don’t want to end up with an uneaten bowl of food!

How to Feed Basil to Dogs

The best way to feed your dog basil is in the form of fresh leaves. Simply wash and chop a few leaves, and add it to your dog’s food. Alternatively, you can add dried basil to the food or sprinkle it over the dog’s meal.

If your dog really enjoys the flavor of basil, you may also consider adding a few fresh leaves to their water. This can help them fight off infections and parasites, while also improving their breath.

What Other Herbs and Spices Are Good for Dogs?

Some other herbs and spices that are safe for dogs include oregano, cilantro, mint, rosemary, and thyme. All of them boast excellent health benefits when used in moderation. For example, cilantro can help fight bad breath, rosemary can reduce inflammation, and thyme has antibacterial properties.

Always consult with your veterinarian before adding any herbs or spices to your dog’s diet. A small amount of basil leaves in a meal is generally safe for dogs, but listen to the reaction of your dog to determine if there are any negative side effects.

Summary: Basil Is Not Toxic to Dogs

In a nutshell, can dogs eat basil? Yes, but you should always remember that a well-balanced diet for dogs can vary depending on their breed, age, weight, and general health condition. Although basil is rich in healthy compounds, there are some dogs that are allergic to it. It must also be said that some herbs are known to interact with various medications, so always be cautious when feeding any sort of herbal supplements or making homemade dog food.

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