Can Dogs Taste Herbal Food?

Can dogs have all types of herbs? Are there some herbs and herbal foods that dogs need to avoid? In this article, we will take a look at the safe and not so safe herbs for your dog!

If they eat the herbs you give them, your dog will likely bark or whine for more, drool a lot at the food, paw at your leg or arm, or stare at you with eager eyes to show they are waiting for you to give them another bite. Depending on your dog, they may pace around in front of you and the food and jump up at you, or if you have a calmer and more reserved dog, they may just sit in front of you, patiently waiting for more. 

On the other hand, you might find your dog isn't a fan of any herbs or herbal food, and that is completely normal! If your dog does not like herbs, they may try to take the herb from you and attempt to eat it, but then spit it out because they don't like the flavor. Some dogs may snarl, growl, or expose their teeth to the herbs or herbal food to show they do not approve of it. 

Although herbs were eaten many years ago, they were often used as medicine and with holistic and natural intentions, as well. The Greeks and Romans used dill to make crowns for royalty and the Romans found they could cleanse and purify the air with dill as well. 

Once 65 AD rolled around, a book was written by Pedanius Dioscorides, who was an ancient Greek doctor, that outlined all of the ways herbs could be used for the human body and how to treat different illnesses. Many holistic doctors and individuals use this book as a point of reference today. 

It is very possible the illnesses in dogs and other animals may have been treated with herbs. Herbs were found in abundance and were the main source of medication for humans. Therefore, it is likely herbs were the only source of medication for sick animals and dogs. Today, many holistic vets use herbs and herbal supplements to treat a variety of conditions in dogs, cats, and other domesticated animals. 

Herbs generally loaded with antioxidants, minerals, vitamins, antimicrobial, and antibacterial properties. 

These special compounds can treat different illnesses, aches, and pains. For instance, the peppermint leaf is often used to cure upset stomach and nausea while oregano can help prevent infections in wounds from forming because it is antimicrobial and antibacterial. 

Rosemary is another safe and awesome herb for your pup. Rosemary is earthy and woodsy and has high levels of iron, calcium, and Vitamin B6. Just like oregano, rosemary has tons of antioxidants, which are great for clearing your dog's body from free-radicals. 

Peppermint may be one of the herbs or essential oils to keep in the house for your furry friend. Peppermint will soothe and correct just about any stomach issue including nausea, bloating, stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and motion sickness. If your dog gets car sick, peppermint is a great and natural way to combat this issue. 

Easily one of the most popular herbs for eating and cooking with is basil. Basily is earthy and slightly licoricey and has antiviral, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties. It is also high in antioxidants. This can help cure and treat many different viruses, fungal infections, and much more. 

Parsley is another dog-friendly and beneficial herb. This herb can be used for treating an upset stomach, but is also used for freshening the icky dog breath! 

The best way to add herbs to your dog's diet it to sprinkle finely chopped herbs into their meals during meal time. This is much easier and more efficient than trying to hand feed your dog the herbs. They are more likely to eat it with their kibble, soft food, or raw food than on its own. You can also add chopped herbs into just about any kind of homemade dog treat for an added nutritional boost.