In order to add flavour to foods, one of the finest herbs is rosemary. Sometimes, we think of adding this fragrant herb to our dogs’ diet, as they also have the right to enjoy flavours. But can dogs have rosemary?
Rosemary is not bad for dogs, if taken in moderation. Thanks to its antiviral, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties that do only good for a dog’s health. Sometimes, this herb can have downsides for them, especially when they don’t eat it in the right way.
This article will guide you on how you can deliver the best nutrients from rosemary to your paw friend. So stay tuned.
Table of Contents
Can Dogs Have Rosemary?
Along with many herbs, rosemary is a safe herb that dogs can enjoy. Its antioxidants and antibacterial properties will not only save a dog internally but also externally. For example, nutrients like vitamins and minerals will promote the health of dogs. Meanwhile, their medicinal properties can help you cure wounds, irritation, dryness, and cuts in dogs.
Anyway, rosemary can be a healthy addition to your dog’s diet if he can have it, like being medically healthy. Besides, his vet should know about his intake.
Benefits Of Rosemary For Dogs
Rosemary can be a good addition to dogs’ meals as it offers several health benefits. For example, rosemary has manganese that prevents blood clotting and promotes a fine metabolism. Again, it has carnosic acid, an antioxidant that will prevent cancer. Its other antioxidants include rosmarinic acids, which can boost dogs’ immune systems. Besides, its leaves are so aromatic that they can reduce stress in a minute.
Rosemary has some phytochemicals that will improve dogs’ body organs’ functions and prevent them from developing asthma. The main ingredient in this herb is vitamin C, which will promote dogs’ skin and coat health. Also, it has a few amounts of niacin, thiamine, riboflavin, and folate that maintain brain health, heart health, muscle health, bone health, etc.
The antimicrobial properties present in rosemary can help dogs with improper digestion. Meanwhile, the additional antioxidants from vitamin C will protect them from free radicals.
Since rosemary can kill potential bacteria, you can use it to store dog food. Another benefit it offers is that it keeps mosquitoes and fleas at bay. Rosemary essential oil is especially beneficial to prevent dogs’ fur from accumulating bugs. For that, you must dilute the essential oil with water, as the oil is highly concentrated.
Risks Of Rosemary For Dogs
Along with health benefits, rosemary can pose health risks to dogs. It happens, especially when dogs eat too much of this herb or consume its essential oil. This can result in stomach pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, weakness, etc.
Rosemary leaves have an enchanting and refreshing aroma. If canine friends take too many of them, they may have to struggle with gas and bloating. Another issue can be when they consume the rosemary essential oil. It has camphor and other concentrated chemicals that can irritate a dog’s gut. Sometimes, the direct contact of rosemary essential oil with a dog’s skin causes irritation and rashes.
How To Offer Rosemary To Dogs?
Dried and fresh rosemary are safe for dogs. Before you share it with your paw friend, wash it properly to eliminate any bacteria and pesticides. Then tear the leaves off and cut them into small pieces. The pieces should be so small that dogs cannot find any choking hazards in gulping the leaves.
You can sprinkle the pieces over the dog food or on rice, fruits, and veggies.
How Much Rosemary Can Dogs Have?
Before you think of sharing rosemary with your paw friend, see if he can have it or not. First, let him eat the slightest amount of the rosemary leaf. If he eats it and has no negative reaction, maybe he is comfortable eating this herb. In this way, you can introduce rosemary to your canine friend.
Well, the maximum amount of rosemary to feed your dog is going to depend on his size. If he is an extra-small breed, ⅛ of a teaspoon is fine for him. Again, for small dogs, ¼ teaspoon of rosemary is sufficient. For medium breeds, it should be less than ½ of a teaspoon, and for large breeds, it should be less than 1 teaspoon.
When Can Dogs Have Rosemary?
Rosemary has antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties. The acids present in them may not go well with all dogs. That’s why you must know whether your dog can consume or use rosemary.
For example, dogs having seizures can’t eat rosemary as it contains certain human medicines. Also, pregnant dogs should avoid this herb, as it can cause miscarriage.
Dogs who can’t withstand plant-based foods should avoid eating rosemary, its extract, or its oil. According to veterinarians, dogs should not come into contact with rosemary essential oil at all. So keep your dog away from this concentrated oil, but you can introduce him to this herb.
Even if you think this herb can be a safe substitute for your dog, ask your vet about it. He will know better which foods can be good for your dog as he knows about the health records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs eat rosemary every day?
Dogs cannot eat rosemary every day as it is an herb, not a dog food. In fact, offering it to your canine friends daily can lead to intestinal upset, vomiting, diarrhoea, and even constipation.
Do dogs like rosemary?
Some dogs get baffled seeing rosemary in their meals. It is because of the refreshing smell that it attracts many mammals.
Is rosemary oil safe for dogs?
Rosemary oil is not only unsafe for appliances in dogs but also for their consumption. It can create gassiness and irritation in their gut.
Is rosemary tea safe for dogs?
If rosemary is safe for dogs, so is the rosemary tea, tincture, or plant. Make sure your dog doesn’t drink more than a few sips.
Final Thoughts
After learning about some downsides of having rosemary, we may still think, Can dogs have rosemary? The answer is yes; they can have this herb in small amounts only if their vet is fine with it. However, you can’t think of letting your paw friend eat rosemary when she is pregnant, allergic, or has seizures.
Not only the consumption but also the appliance of rosemary, its extract, or its essential oil can harm dogs under these prescribed conditions. Even if your dog seems healthy enough to have this herb, ask your vet about it first.
