Can Dogs Eat Mint? The Benefits and Dangers

Mint is a popular herb that’s often used to add flavor to everything from toothpaste to gum. It’s also a common ingredient in many dog treats and dental products. But while mint may be refreshing for humans, you may be wondering if it’s safe for your furry friend. In small amounts, mint is not toxic to dogs, but it can cause digestive issues, including vomiting and diarrhea, if it’s consumed in large quantities. Mint is appealing to dogs because of its strong scent, but eating too much of it, or any products that contain it, can lead to an upset stomach.

In this article, we’ll review the latest information from veterinarians and pet nutritionists to learn how much mint is safe for dogs. We’ll also discuss the potential uses of mint, including its ability to freshen breath and soothe an upset stomach. Armed with this knowledge, you’ll be able to decide whether or not to add this popular herb to your dog’s diet and living space.

Mint Toxicity and Poisoning in Dogs

While mint is not poisonous to dogs, excessive consumption can result in gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea, according to research cited by WagWalking. However, mint-flavored products, including gum and candy, and mint essential oils can be poisonous due to the presence of other toxic ingredients, such as xylitol, according to Pet Poison Helpline.

Symptoms of mint poisoning in dogs can include weakness, ataxia, tremors, and seizures in severe cases. VCA Animal Hospitals explains that some essential oils, such as pennyroyal, can cause liver and central nervous system damage. If a dog has ingested a toxic amount of mint or mint-containing products, it is important to seek immediate veterinary care. According to Dr. Buzby's ToeGrips, vomiting should not be induced following peppermint oil ingestion to prevent aspiration pneumonia.

Treatment may include vomiting if the toxin has been ingested within the past two hours, IV fluids to maintain hydration, and supportive treatment, such as anti-emetics, based on clinical signs, according to VCA. If liver damage has occurred from the ingestion of pennyroyal, blood work may be necessary to evaluate liver function. While mild cases can result in a full recovery with prompt treatment, liver failure can occur in cases of pennyroyal ingestion, which underscores the importance of keeping mint products out of reach of pets.

Mint as a Natural Flea Repellent for Dogs

Some types of mint, such as peppermint and spearmint, can be used as natural flea repellents for dogs, says Dogs Naturally Magazine. Mint can be planted in the yard or garden to keep fleas away from the area. wikiHow suggests mixing peppermint oil with water and applying it to a dog's collar or other areas where they've been scratching to repel fleas.

Mint sprays and powders can also be used to treat dog beds, carpets, and other areas where fleas may be present, according to Jet Pet Resort. That said, Wondercide warns that essential oils and other concentrated mint products should only be used on dogs under the guidance of a veterinarian to ensure safe and effective use.

How to Give Dogs Mint

The Dog People by Rover.com explains that you can give dogs fresh mint leaves in small amounts to help with bad breath and digestion. Meanwhile, Dogster notes that dried mint leaves or mint tea (as long as it doesn’t contain caffeine or artificial sweeteners) can be used as a supplement.

That said, it’s important to steer clear of giving dogs mint-flavored human foods, such as gum, candy, and chocolate, due to the toxic ingredients, including xylitol, that they contain, according to BeChewy. Plus, The Farmer's Dog recommends that you gradually introduce mint to your dog and watch for any negative reactions or digestive upset.

It’s also a good idea to talk to a vet to find out how much mint you should give your dog based on their size and health status, says Dogster. As long as you take these steps, mint can be a safe and healthy addition to your dog’s diet.

Mint and Human Foods: Safety Concerns for Dogs

While many human foods that contain mint, like mint chocolate chip ice cream or thin mint cookies, are safe for dogs in small amounts, according to JustAnswer, these products often contain other ingredients that are dangerous for dogs, including chocolate, artificial sweeteners, and high sugar content, according to PetMD.

Peppermint candies, gum, and breath mints are not safe for dogs since they often contain xylitol, a sweetener that is toxic to dogs and can cause a rapid release of insulin and hypoglycemia, according to BeChewy. Peppermint essential oils and concentrated mint extracts are also poisonous to dogs and should never be consumed or applied topically, according to the ASPCA.

If a dog eats a human food that contains mint, you should watch for signs of stomach upset and if they occur, contact a vet, according to JustAnswer.

Conclusion: Feed Dogs Mint in Moderation

While mint is safe for dogs to eat in small amounts, it should be fed in moderation. Most types of mint, including peppermint and spearmint, are not poisonous to dogs and can even offer some health benefits. However, pennyroyal mint is poisonous and should be avoided.

Eating too much mint can cause digestive problems, such as vomiting and diarrhea, in dogs. Mint essential oils and mint-flavored products, including gum and candy, can be poisonous because they contain ingredients like xylitol. Symptoms of mint poisoning can include lethargy, lack of coordination, tremors, and seizures.

Some types of mint, including peppermint and spearmint, can be used as natural flea repellents for dogs. Mint can be planted in the yard or diluted peppermint oil can be used to keep fleas away. However, always check with a vet before using essential oils or other concentrated mint products on dogs.

Fresh mint leaves can be added to a dog's diet in small amounts to help with bad breath and digestion. Dried mint leaves or mint tea can also be used as a supplement in moderation. However, avoid feeding dogs mint-flavored human foods, which can be poisonous because they contain xylitol.

As with many things, moderation is key when feeding dogs mint. Always check with a vet to find out how much and how often you can feed your dog mint. Be careful about feeding dogs mint-flavored human foods and products, which can be poisonous because they contain xylitol.