Can Dogs Have Basil? Exploring the Safety and Benefits

If you’ve ever sprinkled basil on your pasta, you may have asked yourself if this herb is safe for dogs. It turns out that basil is safe for dogs to eat and it even has some nutritional value, including vitamins A and K, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties.

That said, basil should only be given in small amounts to avoid stomach issues and it should never be combined with toxic ingredients, like those found in pesto.

In the sections below, we’ll take a deep dive into a number of studies from veterinary nutritionists and other experts in dog health to help you understand the ins and outs of giving basil to dogs. We’ll cover everything from the nutritional content of basil to the right portion sizes, the potential health benefits of basil, and the best ways to add basil to your dog’s diet.

By the end of this article, you’ll have all the information you need to confidently decide whether or not to give your dog basil.

Nutritional Benefits of Basil for Dogs

Basil isn’t just a delicious herb that’s often used in human cooking, it’s also a member of the mint family and, as a result, it has a number of nutritional benefits.

Basil can also provide a nutritional boost for dogs. Basil is full of vitamins A and K, both of which are important for maintaining healthy vision and supporting the immune system in dogs.

Medical News Today also points out that basil is full of antioxidants, including beta-carotene and eugenol, which can help the body get rid of free radicals, reduce oxidative stress, and even help support heart health. These same benefits can also help dogs and support their health overall.

Medical News Today explains that basil has anti-inflammatory effects, which can help dogs suffering from issues like arthritis by providing a natural way to reduce inflammation. Plus, since basil is low in calories, it can also be a good option for dogs who are on a diet.

Because it’s so nutrient-dense and low in calories, basil can be a great way to add a little extra nutrition to a dog’s diet without adding extra calories.

That said, it’s important to be mindful of the amount of basil that’s being added to a dog’s diet and how often it’s being added. Too much basil can lead to digestive issues. By using it in moderation, basil can be a healthy addition to a dog’s diet instead of a dietary staple, which can help keep a dog’s diet in balance.

How to Introduce Basil Into Your Dog’s Diet

As with any new food, it’s important to be careful when introducing basil to your dog. Purina recommends a 7–10 day transition period when introducing new foods to your dog to avoid stomach upset.

Start by adding a small amount of basil to your dog’s regular food, and if there are no signs of an adverse reaction, such as an upset stomach or an allergic reaction, gradually increase the amount.

The American Kennel Club also recommends that no more than 10% of a dog’s daily calories come from treats, including herbs like basil, to ensure that a dog’s diet is nutritionally balanced.

To avoid any potentially harmful additives, opt for fresh or dried basil over store-bought products.

PetMD recommends keeping a close eye on your dog’s appetite, behavior, and stool to see if there are any changes that could indicate a reaction to the new ingredient.

It’s also a good idea to check with a vet, especially if your dog has any health issues or dietary restrictions, to make sure that any dietary changes are safe. This includes adding herbs like basil to your dog’s diet and will help ensure that any dietary changes you make are in line with your dog’s specific nutritional requirements.

How to Spot and Manage Negative Reactions

It’s important to be aware of potential negative reactions when you first start giving your dog basil or any other new food. These reactions can range from digestive issues, such as vomiting or diarrhea, to allergic reactions, like itching, hives, or swelling.

In addition to these symptoms, Dutch.com notes that you should also be on the lookout for signs of lethargy, as well as changes in your dog’s appetite and behavior.

If your dog experiences any of these symptoms after eating basil, you should stop giving it to them right away and assess how severe the symptoms are.

You should also be sure to read the labels of any basil products to check for any ingredients that could be toxic to your dog.

For example, as Dutch.com notes, garlic and onions are both toxic to dogs and can be found in some basil products. If your dog has a severe reaction, such as if they’re vomiting repeatedly, if they’re extremely lethargic, or if they’re having trouble breathing, you should take them to the vet immediately.

To make sure that you can safely give your dog basil and to help you figure out if they have any allergies to the herb, you should start by giving them a small amount and then closely monitoring them. This will help you figure out if they have any intolerances and make sure that they stay healthy and happy.

As you monitor your dog, make sure that you remember that it’s important to keep their diet balanced and that basil should only be a small part of their diet.

Basil and Your Dog’s Digestive Health

In addition to being a flavorful herb, basil may also help improve your dog’s digestive health. Studies have shown that basil is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help dogs who suffer from arthritis or anxiety. It can also help with an upset stomach or improve digestion, similar to the way other herbs like fennel and ginger work, according to Animal Wellness Magazine.

For example, the eugenol in basil can help reduce inflammation, which may help with digestive issues. That said, it’s important to use basil in moderation.

While a healthy diet is important, it’s also important to remember that basil and other herbs should be used sparingly, especially for dogs with sensitive stomachs. When you start giving your dog basil, make sure to do so in moderation and start with small amounts to make sure it helps them without causing digestive upset.

It’s also important to note that while herbs can be helpful for your dog’s health, they should be used in conjunction with regular veterinary care and a healthy diet. While basil can be a helpful and tasty way to support your dog’s digestive health, it’s just one part of a larger plan to keep your dog healthy.

So, Can Dogs Eat Basil?

Yes, dogs can eat basil, but it should be given to them in moderation.

Basil has many health benefits, including important vitamins like A and K, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties that can help support your dog’s overall health.

However, it’s important to make sure you don’t give your dog too much basil, as it can lead to digestive issues, and to make sure you don’t give your dog basil in a form that’s toxic to them.

As always, you should talk to your vet before adding basil to your dog’s diet. This will help ensure that you’re only adding things to your dog’s diet that are safe and healthy for them based on their specific health and dietary needs.

When given in moderation, basil can be a great, low-calorie treat for dogs when added to a well-balanced diet, which is in line with the principles of responsible pet ownership and informed dietary decisions.

After all, we all want our dogs to be healthy and happy, and making sure that we’re feeding them the right things is a big part of that.