Can Dogs Have Oregano?

Oregano is a popular herb much loved for its great smell and flavor. The herb’s distinctive taste indicates that it belongs in the mint family of herbs. While we garnish most meals with oregano, is it safe to share them with our furry friends?

Some commercial dog foods that vets recommend contain a bit of oregano, showing that it is safe for dogs to have oregano.

Varieties Of Oregano

Oregano comes in different forms and can perform various functions in your dog’s health. Some of the common forms of the herb that are readily available in your nearest grocery store include:

Dry And Fresh Oregano

This is the spice that we use in making meals. Dry and fresh oregano is relatively safe for dogs when used in moderation. It will benefit your pup by offering them various essential nutrients they may lack in their regular diet.

Oregano Essential Oil

A cold-pressed variety, oregano essential oil can be helpful to your dog. It can help combat problems such as ringworms and rashes. Also, the essential oil has antibacterial properties that can prevent mold growth and protect your dog’s wounds as they heal.

Oregano essential oil can also soothe their skin and reduce dandruff. Added to your dog’s shampoo, it can repel fleas and ticks.

While oregano essential oil has many valuable uses, it is advisable to consult your vet on whether to use it on your dog and the safe amount.

Related: What Essential Oils are Bad for Dogs?

Oregano Oil

It is an essential oil diluted in a carrier oil such as sunflower, olive, or coconut oil. Oregano oil differs from the essential oil variety as it is edible. You can use this oil when making meals for your dog if they don’t like the taste of the dry and fresh form.

Is Oregano Healthy For Dogs?

The herb contains lots of vitamins that benefit your dog’s health. Common vitamins include Vitamin K, C, and A. The herb also boasts other nutrients and micronutrients such as manganese, iron, calcium, and omega-3.

The multiple nutrients present in the herb perform various beneficial functions in your dog’s health. They include:

• Providing fiber that assists in keeping their bowels healthy.
• Drinks such as tea made using the herb can soothe stomach upsets and relieve sore muscles.
• Antifungal properties that prevent the growth of bacteria can be helpful when cleaning wounds.

Can Oregano Be Bad For Dogs?

While the herb is safe for your dog, too much of it is harmful. When making foods you will share with your dog, do not be too generous with the herb as it might affect their digestive system, causing vomiting and diarrhea.

When cooking with oregano oil, limit it to a small portion as it is high in calories and can lead to obesity and heart problems affecting your dog’s general quality of life. Moreover, the oil also has unhealthy fats that can cause joint pain and inflammation in dogs.

Oregano Poisoning In Dogs

While the herb is not toxic to dogs, some dogs might not tolerate it. Oregano contains irritants that can affect your dog’s health when used regularly and in high quantities. Some of the irritants include:

• Polyphenols
• Flavones
• Monoterpenoids

Oregano poisoning in canines can occur if the herb is overconsumed. Luckily, it is a mild condition that can be treated.

If not diagnosed in time, oregano poisoning in dogs has been associated with digestive disturbances and other long-term severe effects. Though the long-term effects are rare, your dog can get low blood pressure, ulcers, and reduced heart rate if they are often on diets high in oregano.

Oregano essential oil is not edible and can be fatal to your dog, keep it far from your dog when not using it.

Treatment Of Oregano Poisoning

Like any plant toxicity case, the standard treatment plan for oregano poisoning in dogs involves evacuation and detoxification.

Evacuation procedures involve induced vomiting to eliminate as many toxins as possible. If unsuccessful, your vet can repeat the process after every half an hour. Afterward, your dog may be administered IV fluid for rehydration and detoxification.

Alternatives To Oregano

If you are an avid gardener, you can opt to plant herbs that are dog friendly and use them to substitute oregano when cooking food for your pooch. Alternatively, you can get them from your local store.

The herbs you can use include:

• Parsley
• Rosemary
• Peppermint

Final Thought

When introducing oregano to your dog, ensure that you use it in small quantities. Observe your dog and see their reception to the herb. If they do not develop any stomach upset and enjoy the taste, occasionally sprinkle it on their food. The herb can be a wonder in your furry friend’s life as it can assist in handling and managing various ailments.

Do not forget to consult your vet before introducing any new foods, spices or remedies to your dog.