Can Dogs Eat Peppermint?

Usually, dogs are attracted to their owner’s meals and will always show interest in having a bite or a sip of whatever you prepared for yourself. While you can share most of the foods with your dog, is peppermint safe for consumption?

This article will answer this question and talk more about peppermint concerning dogs.

Is Peppermint Safe For Dogs?

Peppermint is a dog-friendly herb. You can offer the herb to your dog in a dry or fresh form for them to enjoy its taste and nutritional benefits. It is important to note there are also different forms of peppermints and blends that can be unsafe to your canine. It would be best to stay clear from offering your dog peppermint essential oils and blends with chocolate.

Health Benefits Of Peppermint

There are several health benefits that your dog can get from eating peppermint. They include:

Killing Mouth Germs

Peppermint has a good flavor and aroma that will leave your furry friend with a fresh breath. Moreover, the herb has antibacterial properties that assist in getting rid of the bacteria that cause a foul smell in your dog’s mouth.

It is also believed that peppermint keeps the plaque film from forming on teeth, ensuring they are as white and healthy as possible.

Managing Stomach Upset

Peppermint contains properties that can relax the tissues of animals’ gastrointestinal tracts. Studies have shown that the herb can ease stomach pain and relieve symptoms of nausea.

Other health benefits of peppermint include:

• It is rich in vitamins A and C, which assist in developing and strengthening a dog’s bones
• It contains trace minerals such as magnesium, potassium, zinc, calcium, and many more, which play a significant role in a dog’s balanced nutrition.
• Has antioxidants that protect against free radical damage in cells

Can Peppermint Hurt A Dog?

Incorporating a large amount of peppermint into your dog’s regular diet can hurt your dog. Your dog might experience dehydration from excessive diarrhea and vomiting.

Therefore, moderation is crucial when incorporating peppermint into a dog’s diet.

Is Peppermint Oil Dog-friendly?

If your dog ingests peppermint essential oils, it can suffer from severe health issues. It can experience symptoms such as excessive gas build-up, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Though it can be dangerous, peppermint oil has multiple benefits when applied differently.

Below are among the benefits your dog can get from diluted peppermint oil:

• Soothing Skin Irritation: It has antimicrobial properties that assist in the reduction of inflammation and bring relief to your furry friend’s skin
• Tick and Flea Repellant: If you add the oil to your dog’s shampoo, it will prevent ticks and fleas from distressing them.
• Mental Stimulant: If your dog is lethargic, peppermint can stimulate its mind and encourage a more active lifestyle.
• Deodorant: The freshness of the peppermint oil can leave your canine smelling clean for a long time.
• Remedy Dog Allergies: It contains antiseptic and analgesic properties that can aid your dog in getting relief from seasonal allergies.

Related: What Essential Oils are Bad for Dogs?

Conclusion

The best way to add peppermint to your dog’s diet is by finely chopping and adding a small portion to its occasional food. You can also use it when making their treats, but you should always be keen if it is their first time to observe if your dog might be allergic to the herb.

Further Reading:

• Is lemongrass Safe For Dogs?
• Is Palo Santo Safe for Dogs?
• Can Dogs Eat Dill? How Safe Is It For Dogs?
• Is Mint Good Or Bad For Dogs?
• Can Dogs Eat Basil? Is Basil Beneficial For Dogs?
• Can Dogs Eat Cilantro? What You Need To Know