Dogs are fantastic creatures. As your pets, they’ll love you unconditionally, and it would be great if you returned the favor by giving them the right care. One of the ways to show your dog love is by feeding them well. As a part of feeding them well, you might want to add seasonings to their food. But can dogs eat seasonings? If yes, what seasonings can dogs eat? In this article, we’ll explore different seasonings that are safe for your pup and make meals a bit spicier.
What Is the Effect of Seasonings on Dogs’ Health?
Spices have different effects on dogs, just as they do on humans. However, spices are not typically harmful to dogs, but moderation should be exercised while adding spices to their meals. Spice can add a pleasant aroma, flavor and pique their excitement for meals, improve digestion, provide anti-parasitic benefits, enhance brain function, and even boost the immune system. But added in excess or the wrong type can cause issues like gastric irritation and inflammation, especially if your dog suffers from any preexisting medical conditions.
What Seasonings Are Safe for Dogs?
Although many seasonings are safe for dogs, some are better off left out of their meals. In general, using natural spices is more reliable than synthetic seasonings. Here is the best 9 seasoning which you can safely spice up your pup’s palate with:
Cinnamon
Cinnamon, known for its sweet aroma, is safe for dogs without added sugar. It is an excellent addition to your dog’s homemade desserts, as it has anti-inflammatory properties and can help regulate blood sugar. However, giving your pet too much cinnamon can cause digestive issues like vomiting, diarrhea, and liver disease.
Parsley
Parsley is one of the best herbs you can add to your dog’s meals. Not only is it safe and non-toxic, but it is also rich in nutrients that help, such as potassium and vitamin C. Parsley can be mixed with your dog’s kibble or treats, but too much might result in skin irritation or digestive issues.
Basil
Basil – a potent herb with anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, can be added to your dog’s food in moderation to aid in bacteria control and manage inflammation. This herb can be added to homemade pet snacks, as it contains vitamins A and K, potassium, and calcium. Nonetheless, always consult with your veterinarian before including basil to your dog’s diet.
Ginger
Adding ginger to your dog’s meals and treats can offer many benefits, including reducing nausea, soreness, and vomiting, improving digestion, and boosting immunity. However, ginger should be added in moderation, as an excess can lead to diarrhea or other digestive difficulties.
Oregano
Oregano is another safe herb that is a fantastic addition to your dog’s homemade meals. It contains antioxidants, is antibacterial, and antifungal, and helps boost the immune system. But again, it is essential to use it in moderation, as too much of it can lead to diarrhea, vomiting, and other digestive issues.
Rosemary
Rosemary is a potent seasoning for dogs that not only makes meals more exciting and tastier but also boasts a host of health benefits such as hair growth and anti-inflammatory properties that can help relieve pain and stiffness. Nonetheless, when using rosemary, always consult with your vet to ensure that you do not use it in excess.
Sage
Sage, a traditional seasoning used in Italian cuisine, is an excellent seasoning option for dogs. It is high in antioxidants that neutralize the destructive impact of free radicals, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial. It helps treat gingivitis, loose teeth, and mouth ulcers, amongst other dental problems, when used in moderation.
Turmeric
Curcuma, a powerful antioxidant and effective anti-inflammatory substance present in turmeric, is one of the safest seasonings you can add to your dog’s meals. It helps reduce inflammation and swelling and even helps to relieve arthritic pain. However, too much turmeric can lead to an upset stomach or constipation.
Thyme
Thyme is an herb with no known negative impact on dogs when used in moderation. It is rich in antioxidants and has antibacterial, antiseptic, and antifungal properties. Thyme can be vital in treating respiratory problems, coughs, and digestive issues.
What Seasonings Are Harmful to Dogs?
Even though many seasonings are safe for dogs, not all are safe, and some should be kept away from your pup’s diet. Here are some harmful seasonings you should avoid:
Onion and Garlic
Garlic and onion, although it seems healthy for humans, are toxic to dogs. When eaten in large quantities or frequently, they can cause hemolytic anemia, which is characterized by the breakdown of red blood cells. All forms of onion and garlic, such as raw, cooked, dehydrated, and powdered, are harmful to dogs.
Pepper and Spicy Seasonings
Most spicy seasonings contain a high amount of capsicum, which is an irritant to the mouth and digestive system. Even though small quantities of mild spicy seasonings are safe, it is best to avoid them altogether as human foods seasonings usually contain excess sodium, which is harmful to your dog’s health if consumed regularly.
Nutmeg
Nutmeg is another seasoning that can cause issues if consumed in large quantities. It could lead to diarrhea and vomiting, high blood pressure, tremors, or seizures.
Conclusion
Seasonings can add a flavorful taste to your dog’s meal while simultaneously boosting their health. With the variety of seasonings that are safe for dogs, you can switch things up and make meals more interesting for your pet while keeping them healthy. It would be best to consult with a veterinarian before including and removing any seasonings from your dog’s diet. Now that you know what seasonings can dogs eat you are set to start your dog’s culinary journey.
Questions and Answers
- Can dogs eat cinnamon?
- Cinnamon is safe for dogs without added sugar, and it has anti-inflammatory properties and can help regulate blood sugar. However, excessive consumption can cause digestive issues like vomiting, diarrhea, and liver damage.
- Is garlic suitable for dogs?
- Garlic is toxic to dogs and can cause hemolytic anemia when eaten in large quantities or frequently.
- Can dogs eat parsley?
- Parsley is one of the best herbs you can add to your dog’s meals as it is non-toxic and full of nutrients that help with vetting C and potassium. It can be mixed with your dog’s kibble or treats as long as it is done in moderation, or else it may result in skin irritation or digestive issues.
References
- https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/is-cinnamon-good-for-dogs/
- https://www.petsafe.net/learn/homemade-dog-food-seasonings-and-spices-your-dog-can-eat
- https://www.petmd.com/dog/nutrition/5-ways-spruce-your-pets-diet-herbs-and-spices
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/safe-spices-for-dogs#TOC_TITLE_HDR_6