Do you enjoy the fragrance of rosemary and use it for cooking, cosmetics, or as a medicinal herb?
Or maybe you grow it in your garden or indoors?
If you have a dog, you may be wondering whether it is safe for your pet.
Read on to find out whether rosemary is safe for canines and its potential benefits.
We have also added the different ways to give rosemary to your pup and other herbs which are good for dogs.
Is Rosemary Safe For Dogs?
The good news is that rosemary is safe for canines, according to the ASPCA. And not only is it non-toxic for them, but it can also have multiple benefits for dogs.
This Mediterranean herb is used for cooking, making essential oils and cosmetic products, and for various medical purposes.
It can be beneficial for dogs in different forms, including fresh, dried, steeped, or as an essential oil extract.
In the paragraphs below, you can find out how to use rosemary to boost your pet’s health and ensure its wellbeing.
The Uses of Rosemary
Since ancient times, this aromatic shrub has been used as a medicinal herb to improve brain function, relieve pain, resolve inflammations, improve circulation, and stress relief.
It is very fragrant and, as such, is also a preferred ingredient for different teas and food recipes.
It is also a popular ingredient used for making perfumes and other cosmetics.
Rosemary is used as a natural mosquito and bug repellent as well.
With the increasing popularity of aromatherapy and essential oils, rosemary can often be found and used as an oil extract too. But, like with any other essential oil, never apply it directly to your dog’s skin or coat!
Related: 23 Dog Skin Conditions (And How To Cure Them)
How Can Your Dog Benefit From Rosemary?
Rosemary can be beneficial for canines and humans and can be added to their diet or as a topical treatment.
Here are some of the ways to use rosemary with your pup safely:
Use it as an antimicrobial treatment
This popular herb has antimicrobial properties. It is often used in different dog foods and products as a natural preservative and in dog shampoos as an antimicrobial agent.
Always check the labels of all foods and products containing rosemary to ensure that it has been made specifically for canines.
When using rosemary for your pup for the first time, start with minimal quantities, and watch it closely for signs of a potential allergic reaction.
Use it as an antioxidant
This aromatic plant is a natural antioxidant.
So, adding some to your pup’s diet can help fight and eliminate the free radicals which cause damage to its cells, organs, and body and can cause illnesses such as cancer.
As a powerful antioxidant and with its potent anti-inflammatory effect, rosemary can help remove these unstable harmful molecules and thus improve the overall health of your four-legged companion.
Use it as a bug repellent
Rosemary has a strong fragrance, which is known to help repel mosquitos and various other insects.
You can diffuse some rosemary oil or purchase a specialized dog insect repellent containing the herb for the best results.
Remember to never apply essential oil to the skin or coat of your dog directly. Since it is a highly concentrated extract, it can be unsafe and hurt your pet.
Although many products for dogs claim to repel ticks, fleas, mosquitos, and others, always speak to your vet about the best and most efficient option for your pup.
This is especially important if you live in an area with bigger risks of diseases transmitted via insects, such as heartworm or Lyme disease. If this is the case, it would probably be better to rely on a traditional repellent and preventative to ensure the safety and health of your pet.
Use it to improve the dog’s digestive health
Rosemary has antimicrobial properties which can help improve your furbaby’s digestive health.
When used correctly, it can help protect the gut from bad bacteria and thus prevent indigestion and gastrointestinal infections.
Related: What Essential Oils are Bad for Dogs?
How Much Rosemary Should You Use For Your Dog?
Even though this popular herb is non-toxic for canines and can be beneficial, you should be careful about the amount you use on them or give them.
The safe and recommended amount largely depends on your furbaby’s size and weight, age and health, and the specific issues you are addressing.
You should always consult your veterinarian before using or giving rosemary to your dog.
If you use the herb as a tincture, the recommended dosage is 1/8 of a teaspoon per every 20 pounds of body weight, given up to three times a day.
The better way to add rosemary to your pup’s diet is in its natural form or via dog foods and products that contain it in the appropriate dosage.
How Do You Give Rosemary to Your Dog?
The easiest way to incorporate this healthy herb into your dog’s diet is to sprinkle a little bit on its food. You can use it in fresh or dried form, as the health benefits are the same.
Another way to add rosemary to the pup’s regimen is in the form of a tincture in the recommended dosage.
The tincture can be added to the food, applied topically, or administered directly in your pet’s mouth.
What Are Some Other Herbs Which Are Good for Dogs?
If you want your furbaby to consume more natural healthy herbs, then apart from rosemary, you can incorporate one or more of the following herbs which are safe for canines:
Parsley
It is commonly used in various dog dental treats and foods and is rich in vitamins, flavonoids, and antioxidants.
Parsley will help improve the stinky breath of your furry friend and is an excellent source of vital vitamins C, K, and iron. Since parsley has such a fragrant and fresh aroma and flavor, your pup will likely enjoy eating it.
Peppermint
Peppermint is another herb to add to your pup’s daily regimen if you want to improve its dental health and breath. This herb is highly efficient for resolving stomach upsets and reducing nausea in humans and canines.
Ginger
Ginger is known to help soothe stomach upsets in dogs too.
Before giving your pet any of these herbs or other home remedies, it is recommended that you discuss it with your vet. If the dog has digestive or other health and dental problems, they may need to be resolved with traditional veterinary medications and treatment.