From basil to turmeric, there’s nothing like a bit of spice to amp up our favourite dishes. While these spices are certainly tasty for us, it’s important to be cautious about what we’re sharing with our canine companions.
When it comes to spices, some can be beneficial while others can pose serious health risks for your dog. Let’s explore the world of spices and their effects on dogs and help you better understand spices that are good for dogs and herbs that are safe for dogs.
A history of herbs and spices
Before the invention of modern medicine, herbs and spices were historically used to treat and relieve a variety of ailments. This was something tribal cultures utilized for hundreds of years and after discovering how beneficial these were for humans, they found out turmeric, ginger, and other spices are good for dogs, too.
It’s important to note that while some of these herbs and spices were great for humans, they could be toxic for our pets.
Understanding the canine diet
Before delving into the world of which spices are good for dogs, it’s essential to understand a dog’s dietary needs. Dogs are primarily carnivorous, with a digestive system designed to process meat efficiently. While they can tolerate certain plant-based foods, their diet should consist primarily of a high-quality diet. Treats and additions like spices and herbs that are good for dogs should be used sparingly and only after ensuring they are safe for canine consumption.
While certain herbs and spices can be beneficial to your dog, it’s important to speak to your holistic veterinarian before feeding them any herbs or spices.
Which spices are safe for dogs?
If you’re wondering what spices are good for dogs, we’re happy to share that there are some that your pup can benefit from in moderation! Check out some of these safe spices for dogs.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice dogs can eat. It is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and may provide various health benefits for dogs. The active compound curcumin can aid in joint health, digestion, and even cognitive function.
However, using a good spice for dogs like turmeric should be used in moderation. Even though it is one of the spices good for dogs, excessive consumption may lead to stomach upset.
Ginger
Ginger is one of the spices safe for dogs that has anti-nausea properties and can be helpful if your dog experiences motion sickness or an upset stomach. However, it’s best to consult your veterinarian before using ginger for medicinal purposes.
Chamomile
According to Preventative Vet, chamomile is one of the more calming and sedating herbs for dogs that is best served as a cold tea for pups. This can also serve as a muscle relaxant for dogs who spent the whole day playing!
Oregano
Oregano is safe for dogs in small quantities and can add flavour and antioxidants to their meals. Although it is one of the herbs safe for dogs, it’s important to note that too much can cause gastrointestinal upset.
Which spices are unsafe for dogs?
Now that we’ve outlined spices that are good for dogs, it’s time to get the ones that you should avoid. Here are some herbs and spices to keep out of their diets.
Nutmeg
Nutmeg can be toxic to dogs and cause symptoms like hallucinations, tremors, and seizures. Keep foods containing nutmeg out of reach of your furry friend.
Allspice
Wag Walking says that similarly to cloves, allspice contains eugenol, a compound that is toxic for dogs in high amounts. Too much of it could lead to liver toxicity or at least some unpleasant symptoms, so it’s best to avoid giving it to them at all.
Paprika
Especially in large amounts, paprika can irritate a dog’s digestive system and cause gastrointestinal distress.
What diets are beneficial for your dog?
While certain herbs and spices for dogs can have their benefits, it’s more important to ensure you’re feeding a healthy diet.
Of all the raw dog food companies in Canada, we recommend a Bold by Nature raw food diet for dogs. This type of diet mimics the natural diet of wild dogs, which typically eat prey animals and plants. Proponents of raw food diets believe that this type of diet is more natural and healthier for dogs than traditional kibble or canned dog food.
Each diet provides a list of benefits that include cleaner teeth, shinier coats, and healthier dog digestive systems. On top of these benefits, the high meat content found in our raw diets helps to satisfy even the most finicky palettes with delicious tastes.
These recipes include a variety of different ingredients, including raw meat (such as beef, chicken, or turkey), bones, organs (such as liver or kidney), and vegetables (such as carrots or collard greens). there are many things that make a Bold by Nature formula the ideal diet for your pet.
If you’re looking to give your dog a little boost, Bold by Nature also offers supplements for dogs like powdered pumpkin for dogs and slippery elm. From heart health to improved skin and coat, you can give your pet’s bowl a delicious, sugar-free boost!
Where can I find Bold by Nature products?
You already know where you can get herbs and spices for dogs, but what about Bold by Nature products? You can purchase Bold by Nature products, like raw pet food in Canada, either online or at a local retailer that carries Bold by Nature products. If you’re unsure of which stores carry our products, you can use our location finder to explore retailers.
Conclusion
Now that we’ve answered “what spices can dogs eat”, you’ll know which ones can be beneficial to your dog’s diet. With that said, it’s still crucial to exercise caution and moderation when introducing them to your pet’s diet. Always consult your holistic veterinarian before adding anything new to your dog’s diet, even if they’re spices that dogs can eat.
To learn more about pet care and how Bold by Nature can help, check out our other blogs regarding topics like raw food diets, can dogs get salmonella, and more.
