One of Mom’s FAV herbs is can you guess wha???? It’s Basil! We have 2 fresh basil plants growing in Ball Jars in the kitchen window (Yep, you can do that), basil frozen in cubes and sometimes fresh packs in the fridge! That’s alot of Basil! She loves the stuff on EVERYTHING! Do you WUV basil too? If it’s THAT good, we’re wondering…Can Dogs Eat Basil too?
Can Dogs Eat Basil?
The Benefit of Basil Leaves
Basil’s origins trace back to India, Asia, and Africa for over 5000 years! Basil has over 60 varieties and is grown all over the world! Basil contains many vitamins and minerals, as well as antioxidants such as lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene, and beta-cryptoxanthin. Many of basil’s health benefits come from these antioxidants!
Is Basil Safe for Dogs?
Along with being an anti-inflammatory, basil contains a high level of antioxidants that may help prevent cellular damage, ease arthritis pain, calm your anxious dog and may help prevent many types of illness including cancer. The best part? Basil IS safe and healthy for dogs in small quantities!
Is Basil Poisonous to Dogs?
Most herbs are toxic to dogs and cats so ALWAYS do your research and ask your veterinarian before serving new foods and herbs to your pets!
Is Basil Toxic to Dogs?
Basil, is the exception as it is one of the herbs that dogs can eat and is safe for dogs! As always, be sure to check with you veterinarian regarding your individual pet’s health before giving your dog basil. But, in general, basil is not poisonous to dogs!
Is Basil Safe for Cats?
According to the ASPCA, Basil is Non-Toxic to Cats and is also safe for cats to eat! We have kitty grass in our window for Miss Lovey so we’re going to add some basil to her “gawden” to see if she enjoys a little basil to nibble on!
Fun fact: Basil is also known as Saint Joseph’s Wort, Thai Basil and Sweet Basil!
How Much Basil Can I Give My Dog?
As with any new food, it’s always best to give your dog a very small amount to test for potential stomach upset. When sampling basil, dogs typically pay little attention to a few pieces shredded on or mixed into their food! For small dogs you may try a few small torn or chopped pieces of one Fresh Basil Leaf. For larger dogs one or two Fresh Basil Leaves torn or chopped into small pieces would be a nice extra healthy flavor in their meal!
Can I Give My Dog Dried Basil?
Yes! As with Fresh Basil, only use small amounts for added flavor and health benefits. A few sprinkles of Dried Basil for small dogs or up to a teaspoon of Dried Basil for larger dogs is recommended (if approved by your vet).
Too Much Basil Side Effects
When served Fresh or “Fresh Frozen” (with no added ingredients) as a food ingredient, Basil is a great herb addition to your pup’s meal. According to Web MD for humans, Basil pills, extracts and oils can have a chemical which has been linked to liver cancer so, NEVER serve your pets anything but Fresh Basil.
Is Basil a Perennial?
Basil is an annual which means it needs to be replanted each season year. Basil plants are very sensitive to cold weather and frost so it’s best to bring your favorite basil pots indoors during cold weather and place in a warm, sunny window.
How Long Will a Basil Plant Live?
Although it’s possible, in most circumstances basil does not grow back after a year. If you live in a warmer climate you may be able to extend the life of your basil plant with extra love and care!
Basil to Grow
Sweet Basil is the most popular basil to eat and grow at home! Many grocery stores sell live basil plants and of course you can find many varieties of basil at your local garden center! (Mom also love Thai Basil). You can even put a fresh bunch of basil in a roomy glass jar with water halfway up the stem in a warm kitchen window and watch it sprout and grow! Be sure to replace water with fresh water routinely and keep the water level higher up the stalks (but below the leaves). The Farmer’s Almanac has great tips for growing your basil plant!
We hope you wuv basil like us furSmiths (Mom mixes in our food and actually we don’t even know we’re eating it)! She’s pretty sneaky that one 🙂
Find more safe veggies and fruits for dogs in our blog! Happy Munching!
