What Seasonings Can Dogs Have — Tips

Safe seasonings for dogs include basil, cinnamon, ginger, parsley, and turmeric when given in small amounts appropriate for their body weight

Always consult your veterinarian before adding any new seasonings to your dog’s diet, especially if your pet has health conditions

Start with tiny amounts (1/8 teaspoon or less) and monitor your dog for any adverse reactions like vomiting or diarrhea

The majority of your dog’s nutrition should come from complete and balanced commercial dog food, with seasonings used only as occasional flavor enhancers

Canned food can be a high-quality, nutrient-rich option for dogs, providing hydration, essential vitamins, and supporting a balanced diet

You watch your dog eyeing your seasoned dinner and wonder if you can safely share those flavors. The answer isn’t straightforward—while some herbs and spices can provide health benefits for your canine companion, others pose serious risks. Understanding what seasonings can dogs have requires careful consideration of both safe options and dangerous ones that could harm your pet’s health.

This complete guide breaks down exactly which seasonings dogs can enjoy, proper serving sizes based on your dog’s size, and which spices to avoid entirely. You’ll learn how to enhance your dog’s meal safely while maintaining the nutritional balance essential for their wellbeing.

Health Benefits of Herbs and Spices

Adding the right herbs and spices to your dog’s food can offer a range of health benefits when done thoughtfully and in moderation. Many safe herbs and spices, such as turmeric and ginger, are known for their anti inflammatory properties, which can help ease joint pain and support overall mobility in dogs. Others, like parsley and peppermint, are popular for promoting healthy digestion and freshening your dog’s breath.

Certain herbs and spices also have antimicrobial properties, helping to support your dog’s immune system and protect against harmful bacteria. For example, cinnamon and oregano are recognized for their ability to help fight off unwanted microbes, contributing to disease prevention and a stronger immune response.

However, it’s important to remember that not all herbs are safe for dogs, and even beneficial seasonings can cause stomach upset or other health issues if given in excess. Always introduce new herbs and spices gradually, and consult your veterinarian to ensure they’re appropriate for your dog’s specific needs. By choosing the right seasonings, you can enhance your dog’s meal with flavors that provide real health benefits while supporting their overall well-being.

When introducing any new seasoning to your dog’s diet, start with amounts significantly smaller than recommended serving sizes. A tiny pinch for small dogs or 1/16 teaspoon for large dogs allows you to assess tolerance before increasing portions. Always monitor your dog's intake of seasonings and limit the amount to ensure safety. Always observe your dog for 24-48 hours after introducing new seasonings, watching for gastrointestinal symptoms, changes in behavior, or signs of stomach upset.

Safe herbs offer anti inflammatory properties, antioxidant benefits, and can support your dog’s immune system. However, even safe seasonings require moderation—they should never comprise more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake and should complement, not replace, high quality dog food.

Basil (Sweet Basil, Genovese, Thai Varieties)

Fresh or dried basil provides excellent health benefits for dogs when used in appropriate amounts. This aromatic herb contains powerful antioxidants, anti inflammatory properties, and antimicrobial compounds that can support your dog’s immune system and overall health. Incorporating basil into your dog's diet can enhance your dog's health by providing essential nutrients that contribute to their overall well-being.

Serving size: 1/8 to 1 teaspoon fresh or dried basil sprinkled on your dog’s food, adjusted for body weight. Small dogs should receive closer to 1/8 teaspoon, while large dogs can handle up to 1 teaspoon.

The health benefits of basil include vitamins A, B, C, and E, which support skin health and immune system function. Some studies suggest basil’s anti inflammatory compounds may help reduce arthritis pain and provide calming effects for anxious dogs. The herb’s natural antimicrobial properties can also support healthy digestion.

Monitor your dog for potential allergic reactions when first introducing basil. Signs include itching, digestive upset, or changes in behavior. If your dog shows any adverse reactions, discontinue use and consult your veterinarian.

Cinnamon (Ceylon Cinnamon Only)

Ceylon cinnamon offers several health benefits for dogs, but proper identification and dosage are crucial. Never use cassia cinnamon, which contains higher levels of coumarin that can affect your dog’s nervous system and blood sugar regulation.

Safe dosage: 1/8 teaspoon for small dogs up to 1/2 teaspoon for large dogs, given occasionally rather than daily. Always measure carefully and avoid cinnamon sugar or baked goods containing other toxic ingredients.

This anti inflammatory spice provides antibacterial properties and may help regulate blood sugar levels in dogs. Some veterinary nutritionist recommendations include cinnamon for dogs with digestive issues, as it can support healthy digestion and provide antioxidant benefits.

Large amounts of cinnamon can cause stomach upset, low blood sugar, or respiratory and gastrointestinal issues. Never give your dog cinnamon essential oils or other essential oils, as these concentrated forms are toxic regardless of the source herb’s safety.

Ginger

Fresh ginger serves as an excellent natural remedy for dogs experiencing motion sickness, nausea, or digestive upset. This versatile root offers anti inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can support cognitive function and overall health.

Serving: 1/16 teaspoon for toy breeds up to 3/4 teaspoon for large dogs. You can use fresh ginger grated into food, but many pet parents find powdered form easier to measure and store.

Dogs prone to car sickness benefit significantly from small amounts of ginger given 30 minutes before travel. The herb’s natural compounds help settle the stomach and reduce nausea without pharmaceutical side effects. Additionally, ginger’s anti inflammatory properties may provide relief for dogs with arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.

However, avoid giving ginger to dogs with bleeding disorders, as it can interfere with the body's blood clotting mechanisms and increase the risk of bleeding. Dogs with gallbladder issues should also avoid ginger unless specifically approved by their veterinarian. If your dog eats raw ginger in larger quantities, monitor for signs of stomach upset or digestive issues.

Parsley (Curly Parsley Preferred)

Curly parsley offers more safety than flat-leaf varieties and provides excellent nutritional benefits for dogs. This fresh herb contains vitamins A, C, and K, plus antioxidants that support immune system function and may help freshen bad breath. Parsley’s nutrient content can also potentially support your dog's red blood cells, contributing to overall health.

Safe amount: 1/2 teaspoon fresh or 1/4 teaspoon dried per 10 pounds body weight. Always choose curly parsley over flat-leaf varieties, as the latter contains higher levels of compounds that can be problematic in larger quantities.

Regular small amounts of parsley may help prevent urinary tract infections and provide essential nutrients that support your dog’s digestive system. The herb’s natural compounds can help neutralize odors, making it a popular addition to homemade dog treats designed to combat bad breath.

Large amounts of parsley can cause toxicity and photosensitization, making dogs more sensitive to sunlight. Additionally, excessive parsley consumption may contribute to kidney stones in susceptible dogs. Always stick to recommended serving sizes and monitor your pet’s response.

Turmeric

This golden anti inflammatory spice has gained popularity among pet parents seeking natural ways to support their dog’s health. Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful compound with antioxidant and anti inflammatory properties that may benefit dogs with arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.

Dosage: 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon per 10 pounds body weight daily. Many veterinarians recommend mixing turmeric with a small amount of black pepper and coconut oil to enhance absorption, though black pepper should be used sparingly.

Turmeric may help reduce inflammation, support liver health, and provide antioxidant protection against cellular damage. Some studies suggest it may have cancer fighting enzymes, though more research is needed to confirm these benefits in dogs.

Avoid turmeric in dogs prone to kidney stones, as it contains oxalates that can contribute to stone formation. Dogs taking blood-thinning medications should also avoid turmeric unless specifically approved by their veterinarian, as it can enhance anticoagulant effects.

If your dog consumes any toxic seasoning, contact your veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) immediately. Veterinary medicine plays a crucial role in addressing and treating spice or seasoning toxicity in dogs, ensuring proper diagnosis and care. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear, as early intervention often prevents more serious complications.

Watch for signs of poisoning including vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, pale gums, difficulty breathing, or changes in behavior. These symptoms can appear within minutes to hours of ingestion, depending on the toxic substance and amount consumed.

Garlic and Onion (All Forms)

All members of the allium family, including garlic, onion, leeks, and chives, contain thiosulfates that damage your dog’s red blood cells and cause hemolytic anemia. This condition prevents red blood cells from carrying oxygen effectively, leading to weakness, lethargy, and potentially death.

Garlic is 3-5 times more toxic than onion, with onion powder being the most concentrated and dangerous form. Even small amounts consumed regularly can build up in your dog’s system and cause red blood cell damage over time.

Toxic dose: Approximately 0.5% of your dog’s body weight in fresh onion or garlic. For a 50-pound dog, this equals about 4 ounces of onion or just over 1 ounce of garlic. However, sensitive dogs may react to much smaller amounts.

Symptoms include lethargy, pale gums, weakness, difficulty breathing, and collapse. These signs may not appear for several days after ingestion, making it crucial to seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect your dog has consumed any allium family members.

Nutmeg

This common baking spice contains myristicin, a compound that affects your dog’s nervous system and can cause serious neurological symptoms. Even small amounts can be dangerous, especially for small dogs with lower body weight.

Danger threshold: As little as 1 teaspoon can cause stomach upset, disorientation, and seizures in medium-sized dogs. Smaller amounts can affect toy breeds and small dogs significantly.

Nutmeg poisoning causes rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, hallucinations, and seizures. The spice is commonly found in baked goods and spice blends like pumpkin pie spice, making accidental ingestion more likely during holidays or baking sessions.

If your dog consumes nutmeg, seek immediate veterinary care. Treatment may include induced vomiting, activated charcoal, and supportive care to manage symptoms until the toxin clears your dog’s system.

Cocoa Powder

Cocoa powder contains concentrated theobromine and caffeine, both highly toxic to dogs. These chemicals negatively affect a dog's nervous system, leading to neurological symptoms such as tremors, seizures, and even coma, as well as kidney and heart problems. The concentration in cocoa powder makes it significantly more dangerous than milk chocolate, requiring immediate veterinary intervention even for small ingestions.

Lethal doses: Range from 100-200 mg/kg of body weight, but symptoms can begin with much smaller amounts. A single tablespoon of cocoa powder can be fatal for small dogs.

Unlike milk chocolate, which requires larger quantities to cause poisoning, cocoa powder’s concentration means even a small amount licked from a mixing bowl can cause serious problems. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, seizures, and death.

Never attempt home treatment for cocoa powder ingestion. Contact your veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately, even if your dog appears normal. Early treatment significantly improves outcomes for chocolate toxicity.

Salt

Excessive salt consumption can cause severe electrolyte imbalances, leading to vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, and potentially fatal complications. Dogs require much less sodium than humans, making human-seasoned foods potentially dangerous.

Toxic threshold: 2-3 grams per kilogram of body weight. For a 20-pound dog, this equals roughly 2-3 teaspoons of salt. However, dogs with heart conditions, high blood pressure, or kidney issues may react to much smaller amounts.

Salt poisoning causes excessive thirst and urination, vomiting, diarrhea, and neurological symptoms including tremors and seizures. The condition progresses rapidly and can be fatal without prompt treatment.

Too much salt is particularly dangerous for rescue dogs or pets with unknown health histories, as underlying conditions may increase sensitivity. Always avoid sharing salty human foods and check labels on dog treats for sodium content.

Black Pepper and Dogs

While black pepper is a common kitchen staple, it’s best to use caution when considering it for your dog’s food. In small amounts, black pepper is generally not toxic to dogs, but it doesn’t offer significant health benefits and can easily cause stomach upset or digestive issues if overused. The compound piperine found in black pepper can irritate your dog’s digestive system, leading to discomfort or even more serious digestive upset.

If you’re looking to add flavor to your dog’s meal, it’s safer to stick with dog-friendly herbs and spices like parsley, basil, or a pinch of cinnamon, which are less likely to cause problems and can provide health benefits. Should you decide to use black pepper, do so sparingly and always monitor your dog for any signs of stomach upset or digestive issues. Remember, when it comes to herbs and spices for dogs, moderation and careful selection are key to keeping your canine companion healthy and happy.

How to Safely Season Your Dog’s Food

Introducing seasonings to your dog’s diet requires patience, careful measurement, and close observation. The goal is enhancing flavor and providing potential health benefits without disrupting nutritional balance or causing adverse reactions.

Start with the smallest possible amounts and gradually increase only if your dog tolerates the seasoning well. This approach helps identify any sensitivities before they become serious problems and allows your dog’s digestive system to adjust slowly.

Start Small and Monitor

Begin with 1/16 teaspoon or less of any new seasoning, regardless of your dog’s size. This conservative approach allows you to assess tolerance without risking significant adverse reactions. Even with safe herbs, individual dogs may have sensitivities or allergies.

Observe your dog for 24-48 hours before increasing amounts or frequency. Watch for gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, upset stomach, or changes in appetite. Also monitor for behavioral changes, excessive thirst, or any signs that suggest the seasoning disagrees with your pet.

Keep a food diary tracking which seasonings your dog tolerates well and any that cause problems. This record helps you build a safe repertoire of flavors while avoiding problematic ingredients. Note the exact amounts used, timing of administration, and your dog’s response.

If your dog shows any adverse reactions, discontinue the seasoning immediately and contact your veterinarian if symptoms persist or worsen. Even mild digestive upset warrants caution when introducing new foods to your pet’s diet.

Consult Your Veterinarian First

Always discuss new dietary additions with your veterinarian, especially if your dog has health conditions or takes medications. When considering dog supplements, it is important to choose products that are safe, high-quality, and ideally have undergone third-party testing. Consult your veterinarian about the use of dog supplements to ensure they are appropriate and effective for your pet. Some herbs and spices can interact with prescription drugs or exacerbate existing health issues.

Get specific dosage recommendations based on your dog’s size, age, and health status. Your veterinarian can provide personalized guidance that considers your individual pet’s needs rather than general recommendations that may not suit every dog.

Ask about contraindications for pregnant, nursing, or elderly dogs, as these groups may have different sensitivities or requirements. Senior dogs often have compromised liver or kidney function that affects how they process dietary additions.

Dogs with conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or digestive disorders require extra caution when introducing new seasonings. Your veterinarian can advise whether specific herbs might help or harm your dog’s particular condition.

Maintaining a Balanced Diet

Seasonings should enhance, not replace, your dog’s primary nutrition source. High quality dog food provides the complete and balanced nutrition your pet needs, with seasonings serving as occasional flavor enhancers rather than nutritional cornerstones.

Ensure seasonings never exceed 10% of your dog’s daily calorie intake. This guideline helps maintain nutritional balance while allowing for safe flavor enhancement. Most safe seasonings contribute minimal calories, making this threshold easy to maintain with proper portion control. In addition to seasonings, plain Greek yogurt is a natural, protein-rich supplement that provides essential amino acids and probiotics to support your dog's digestive health and overall well-being.

Commercial dog food undergoes extensive testing to ensure nutritional completeness. Adding too many extras, even healthy ones, can disrupt this balance and potentially cause nutritional deficiencies or excesses over time.

Monitor your dog’s overall health, including energy levels, coat condition, and digestive function. These indicators help assess whether dietary additions are benefiting or potentially harming your pet’s wellbeing.

Common Mistakes in Dog Nutrition

Many pet parents want to provide health benefits to their dogs by adding herbs and spices to their pet’s diet, but it’s easy to make mistakes that can lead to stomach upset or more serious health issues. One common error is using too many seasonings or not researching which ones are safe—some, like cocoa powder and onion powder, are highly toxic to dogs and should never be included in dog food or treats.

Another frequent mistake is making changes to a dog’s diet without consulting a veterinarian. Even safe herbs and spices can interact with medications or underlying health conditions, so professional guidance is essential to avoid nutritional imbalances or health problems. Pet parents should also be cautious about assuming that all herbs and spices that are safe for humans will provide health benefits for dogs; not all herbs are suitable for canine consumption.

To keep your dog safe and healthy, always do your research, use only dog-safe seasonings in moderation, and consult with your veterinarian before making any changes to your dog’s food. This approach helps you avoid common pitfalls and ensures your dog enjoys the benefits of a well-balanced, nutritious diet.

Monitoring Dog Health

When introducing new herbs and spices to your dog’s food, it’s essential to closely monitor their health and well-being. Watch for any signs of stomach upset, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or changes in appetite, and be prepared to adjust or remove the new ingredient if you notice any digestive issues. In addition to monitoring for immediate reactions, keep an eye on your dog’s energy levels, coat condition, and overall vitality, as these can be indicators of how well your dog is tolerating dietary changes.

Regular check-ups with your veterinarian are important for catching any potential health issues early, especially when you’re experimenting with new herbs and spices. If you have questions about your dog’s diet or notice any concerning symptoms, don’t hesitate to consult a veterinary nutritionist for expert advice. Above all, remember that high quality dog food should remain the foundation of your dog’s diet, with herbs and spices used as occasional, carefully chosen supplements to support your dog’s health and happiness.

Pumpkin Ginger Biscuits

2 cups whole wheat flour

1/2 cup pure pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)

1/4 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

1 egg

2-3 tablespoons water

Mix dry ingredients, add wet ingredients, and form dough. Roll thin, cut into shapes, and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes until golden. These treats help with digestive issues and provide anti inflammatory benefits. You can also let your dog eat raw ginger in small, properly measured amounts for similar benefits, such as nausea relief and reduced inflammation. Always consult your vet for the right dosage and avoid overconsumption.

Apple Cinnamon Treats

2 cups oat flour

1 cup unsweetened applesauce

1/4 teaspoon Ceylon cinnamon

1 egg

Combine ingredients, roll dough, cut into shapes, and bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes. Perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs, these treats provide fiber and antioxidant benefits.

Turkey Sage Cranberry Biscuits

1 cup cooked turkey, shredded

2 cups brown rice flour

1/4 teaspoon dried sage

1/4 cup dried cranberries (unsweetened)

1 egg

1/4 cup low-sodium chicken broth

Mix ingredients, form dough, shape into biscuits, and bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes. These savory treats provide protein and antioxidants while appealing to dogs who prefer meat-based flavors.

As an additional natural option to support your dog's digestive health, consider preparing dill tea. To make dill tea, steep a small amount of fresh or dried dill in hot water, let it cool, and serve in moderation. Dill tea can help calm gastrointestinal issues, reduce inflammation, and provide antioxidant benefits. Always check with your veterinarian before introducing new herbal infusions to your dog's diet.

Always store homemade treats in airtight containers and use within one week. Consider freezing portions for longer storage, thawing as needed to maintain freshness.

Caution: Never use bay leaf in any homemade dog treat recipes. Bay leaf contains essential oils like eugenol that are toxic to dogs and can cause gastrointestinal issues or even dangerous obstructions.

FAQ

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Can dogs have Italian seasoning?

No, Italian seasoning typically contains garlic and oregano in amounts that can be toxic to dogs. Commercial Italian seasoning blends often include garlic powder, which is particularly concentrated and dangerous. Even oregano, while not toxic in small amounts, can cause gastrointestinal issues when present in seasoning blend quantities. Stick to individual safe herbs like basil or parsley instead.

Is paprika safe for dogs?

No, paprika contains capsaicin which irritates dogs’ mouth, stomach, and digestive system. Even small amounts can cause stomach upset, excessive drooling, and gastrointestinal symptoms. The spice offers no significant health benefits for dogs and poses unnecessary risks. Choose safer alternatives like turmeric for color and anti inflammatory benefits.

How much cinnamon is safe for my 20-pound dog?

Up to 1/4 teaspoon of Ceylon cinnamon daily for a 20-pound dog, but start with much smaller amounts (1/16 teaspoon) to assess tolerance. Always use Ceylon cinnamon rather than cassia cinnamon, which contains higher levels of potentially harmful compounds. Monitor for any signs of digestive upset and discontinue if problems occur.

What should I do if my dog ate garlic powder?

Contact your veterinarian or Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) immediately, even if no symptoms are present yet. Garlic toxicity can take days to manifest, but early intervention improves outcomes significantly. Don’t wait for symptoms like lethargy, pale gums, or weakness to appear. Provide information about the amount consumed and your dog’s weight for proper treatment guidance.

Can I use essential oils of safe herbs on my dog?

No, essential oils are highly concentrated and toxic to dogs, even from herbs that are safe in food form. Essential oils can cause respiratory and gastrointestinal issues, skin irritation, and nervous system problems. The concentration makes them dangerous regardless of whether the source plant is food-safe. Stick to fresh or dried herbs in appropriate food quantities only.

Can I use cayenne pepper or other spicy seasonings for my dog?

No, you should not use cayenne pepper or other spicy seasonings for your dog. Ingredients like cayenne pepper can irritate a dog's nose, eyes, and throat, causing significant discomfort. While not typically toxic, these spices can inflame a dog's sensitive nasal area and lead to unnecessary pain and distress. Avoid using any spicy or aromatic seasonings in your dog's food.