Dogs will eat anything. From socks to the bush in the backyard. They'll also eat whatever we give them. It's important to feed our dogs a healthy diet. To do this, you need to understand the different herbs that are toxic to dogs.
10 Herbs and spices that are toxic to dogs
Let's jump into it. Here are some herbs and spices that are bad for your dog's health.
1. Nutmeg
Nutmeg is severely toxic for dogs. It can cause increased heart rate, hallucinations, high blood pressure, abdominal pain, and seizures.
Lastly, it can even cause damage to your dog's nervous system. If you believe your dog has consumed nutmeg, contact your veterinarian immediately.
2. Cocoa powder
Similar to nutmeg, cocoa powder can be extremely bad for your dog's nervous system.
It should be kept out of your dog's diet and treats.
In addition to its effect on the nervous system, cocoa powder can cause heart and kidney problems for your pup.
3. Garlic
Garlic doesn't usually come to mind when we think about things toxic to dogs. For humans, it's great and even has anti-inflammatory properties.
But the story is different for dogs.
Unfortunately, garlic contains N-propyl disulfide.
N-propyl disulfide may cause increased heart rate, blood in their urine, and even anemia.
These side effects usually occur after consuming large quantities. If your dog has only eaten a small amount, he is likely ok.
4. Onion and onion powder
All parts of the onion are bad for dogs - including onion powder.
Common symptoms include an upset stomach, vomiting, decreased appetite, drooling, and abdominal pain.
Consuming onion in large quantities can lead to the destruction of your dog's red blood cells.
Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog has consumed onion.
5. Caraway seeds
Caraway seeds can be toxic to dogs in large doses.
Dogs may experience liver damage, kidney failure, and low blood sugar.
Lastly, length of consumption can have terrible effects. Caraway seeds can cause cancer in dogs who consume them over a period of time.
Keep your dog away from this toxic seed.
6. Eucalyptus
Eucalyptol is the chemical found in eucalyptus.
Eucalyptol is a neurotoxin and can cause severe gastrointestinal upset.
It can also lead to diarrhea, vomiting, and general weakness. Your dog may even start to suffer from depression.
7. Hops
When our dogs consume hops, their body temperature increases dramatically.
A dog's normal body temperature is around 100.2-103.8 degrees. After a dog eats hops, their internal temperature can spike to over 103.8. This puts your dog in a very dangerous position.
In addition to an increased temperature, your dog may exhibit the following symptoms:
- Excessive panting
- Redness around their mouth
- Seizures
- Abdominal pain
- Rapid heart rate
8. Mint
Although not extremely toxic. Mint is something to be aware of.
Dogs can eat one or two mint leaves. They should not eat any more than this.
Mint causes digestive upset if consumed in large quantities. Additionally, in very large quantities, mint can cause kidney or liver problems.
9. Oregano
Similar to mint, oregano is safe when consumed in low quantities.
It can still cause mild issues with their digestive system. Your furry friend should be monitored during consumption.
Oregano poisoning can include vomiting, diarrhea, vomiting, and slow heart rate.
10. Black Pepper
A small amount of black pepper can be safe for dogs.
Black pepper in larger quantities can cause upset stomach, respiration issues, and hemorrhoids.
If your dog has consumed a large amount, watch their behavior over the course of 2 hours. If your dog begins vomiting or has diarrhea, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Wrap Up: What herbs are bad for dogs?
Dogs eat everything! It's hard to keep up with what they've eaten throughout the day. Even the best dog food can have subpar ingredients.
We hope this article has given you more knowledge on toxic herbs and spices.
Lastly, check out our information article on the health benefits of anti-inflammatory herbs and spices.
Please comment below and let us know what you think.
