Dogs are like family to many people, and just like with human family members, we want to make sure they’re eating healthy and getting all the nutrients they need.
But what about seasonings? What seasonings can dogs have?
Although some seasonings are safe for dogs, others can be dangerous, so it’s important to know which ones are safe before giving them to your dog.
In this post, we’ll explore 10 seasonings that are safe for dogs and how to use them. We’ll also provide a list of unsafe seasonings to avoid.
So if you’re curious about what spices your furry friend can enjoy, keep reading!
10 Safe Seasonings Dogs Can Eat
Dogs can enjoy many common seasonings, but it’s important to use them sparingly, especially if you are trying out whether your dog can eat spicy food. Here are 10 seasonings that are safe for dogs:
#1 – Ginger
Ginger is a versatile spice that can be used in sweet and savory dishes alike. It’s also safe for dogs to consume in small amounts.
Ginger can help settle an upset stomach and may also help with nausea and vomiting. If your dog is experiencing motion sickness, try giving them ginger snaps or adding a small amount of grated ginger to their food.
Start with a small amount and increase gradually as needed. Too much ginger can cause diarrhea or an upset stomach.
#2 – Tumeric
Tumeric is a spice commonly used in Indian cuisine. It’s safe for dogs to consume in small amounts and has several health benefits.
Tumeric contains an antioxidant called curcumin, which can help reduce inflammation. It may also help improve joint health and relieve pain associated with arthritis. You can use it in your dog’s food by adding a small amount of tumeric powder.
As with ginger, start with a small amount and increase gradually as needed.
#3 – Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a spice that’s safe for dogs to consume in small amounts. It has several health benefits, including the ability to help regulate blood sugar levels and improve circulation.
You can add cinnamon to your dog’s food by sprinkling a small amount on top of their food or adding it to homemade dog treats. It’s important not to give your dog too much cinnamon, as it can cause stomach upset.
#4 – Parsley
Parsley is an herb that’s safe for dogs to eat and provides a number of health benefits. It’s a good source of vitamins A and C, as well as iron.
Parsley can be given to dogs fresh, dried, or powdered. You can add it to your dog’s food or water, or sprinkle it on top of their food.
You should not give your dog more than 1 teaspoon of parsley per day. As with any new food, start with a small amount to see how your dog reacts.
#5 – Basil
Basil is a fragrant herb that can add a lovely flavor to many dishes. It’s also perfectly safe for dogs to consume in small amounts. However, as with any other food, it’s important to introduce basil slowly into your dog’s diet to avoid any stomach upset.
Start with just a small pinch of basil and work your way up to larger amounts, depending on your dog’s tolerance.
Basil goes well with many different foods, so feel free to get creative in the kitchen and come up with some new and interesting meals for your furry friend.
#6 – Oregano
Oregano is a common kitchen spice that can also be used to season food for your pup. This herb is safe for dogs in small amounts and can help improve digestion and relieve upset stomachs.
When using oregano to season your dog’s food, be sure to start with a small amount and increase slowly as needed. You don’t want to overwhelm your pup’s senses or make their food too spicy.
You can add oregano to your dog’s food by mixing it into their kibble or wet food or sprinkling it on top of their food before serving.
#7 – Peppermint
Peppermint is a refreshing herb that’s safe for dogs to consume in small amounts. This minty flavor can help soothe an upset stomach and aid in digestion.
You can add a little peppermint to your dog’s food or water, or give them a fresh leaf to chew on. Additionally, you can purchase peppermint oil supplements at your local pet store.
A word of caution: Peppermint oil is very concentrated and should be diluted before giving it to your dog. Pure peppermint oil can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
#8 – Dill
Dill is a common herb that can be found in many kitchens. It has a milder flavor than some of the other spices on this list, but it can still add a nice flavor to your dog’s food.
Just be sure to use it sparingly, as too much dill can cause an upset stomach.
Dill is safe for dogs in small quantities. It can help settle an upset stomach and can be a good breath freshener.
#9 – Flax Seeds
Flax seeds are a great source of fiber, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids, making them a nutritious treat for dogs. Just be sure to grind them up before giving them to your pup, as whole seeds can be a choking hazard.
You can add flaxseed as a seasoning to your dog’s food, or give them a spoonful of ground flaxseed as a treat.
It’s a good idea to start with a small amount and increase it gradually, as too much flaxseed can cause gastrointestinal issues like bloating and gas.
#10 – Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a succulent plant that’s often used to soothe burns and cuts. But did you know that it can also be given to dogs?
Aloe vera is safe for dogs when given in small quantities. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can help heal wounds and soothe digestive issues.
When giving your dog aloe vera, be sure to only use the clear gel from inside the plant. The green outer part of the aloe vera plant can be toxic to dogs.
You can give your dog aloe vera gel by mixing it into their food or applying it directly to their skin. It goes well with other dog-safe seasonings like turmeric and parsley.
6 Dangerous Seasonings Dogs Shouldn’t Eat
While there are many safe and healthy seasonings dogs can enjoy, there are also some that can be dangerous. Here are 6 seasonings dogs should avoid:
#1 – Salt
Salt is a common seasoning that can be found in many pantries. While a little salt is fine, too much can be dangerous for dogs.
Salt can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalances in dogs. It can also lead to gastrointestinal issues like vomiting and diarrhea.
If you’re giving your dog table scraps, be sure to remove any salty seasonings before giving them the food. It’s also best to avoid feeding your dog processed foods that are high in salt content. As regards a treat, look for sensitive stomach treats that don’t contain any salt.
#2 – Garlic
Garlic is a common ingredient in many savory dishes. While it’s safe for humans to eat, garlic can be poisonous for dogs.
Even a small amount of garlic can cause anemia in dogs. Symptoms of garlic poisoning include weakness, vomiting, and diarrhea.
If you suspect your dog has eaten garlic, contact your veterinarian immediately.
#3 – Onion
Onion is another common seasoning that can be dangerous for dogs. Like garlic, onions can cause anemia in dogs.
Onion poisoning can also lead to gastrointestinal irritation and digestive issues. Again, if your dog has eaten a large amount of onion, contact your veterinarian immediately.
#4 – Nutmeg
Nutmeg is a spice that’s often used in sweet and savory dishes. While it’s safe for humans to eat, nutmeg can be poisonous for dogs.
Nutmeg contains a compound called myristicin, which can cause seizures, tremors, and other neurological problems in dogs. Symptoms of nutmeg poisoning can appear within 24 hours and include vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst, and difficulty walking.
#5 – Cocoa Powder
Cocoa powder is used to make chocolate, which is poisonous for dogs. Even a small amount of chocolate can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. In severe cases, it can lead to tremors, seizures, and even death.
It’s best to avoid giving your dog any foods that contain cocoa powder. If you think your dog has eaten some, monitor them for signs of illness.
#6 – Paprika & Pepper
Paprika and pepper are two spices that are often used together. They can be found in many savory dishes, as well as on popcorn and other snacks.
Paprika and pepper can cause gastrointestinal irritation in dogs. They can also lead to sneezing, watery eyes, and difficulty breathing.
If your dog has a reaction to paprika or pepper, contact your veterinarian immediately. Some signs of an allergic reaction include swelling of the face, hives, and difficulty breathing.
Conclusion
There are many safe and healthy seasonings dogs can enjoy. However, there are also some that can be dangerous. Salt, garlic, onion, nutmeg, cocoa powder, and paprika & pepper are all spices that can be harmful to dogs.
Safe ones include aloe vera, turmeric, parsley, ginger, and tumeric. They can really help a dish out and be good for your pup too!
Just make sure to not go overboard on the seasonings so that your furry friend can enjoy their food just as much as you do.
While most dogs won’t have any problems eating these seasonings, it’s always best to err on the side of caution. If you’re unsure whether seasoning is safe for your dog, contact your veterinarian to ask before feeding it to them.
What seasonings are you often giving to your dog?
