Can Dogs Eat Parsley? Is It Safe?

Petroselinum crispum, otherwise known as parsley, is a common leafy herb we see on our dinner plates at restaurants. A lot of us use it at home for cooking and are aware of the benefits of this herb, but is it good for your dog?

The short answer is, yes! Dogs can also benefit from this lovely herb, and other herbs as well!

Benefits Parsley Has For Dogs

Parsley is a popular ingredient umong soups, salads and sauces, it is also high in vitamins A and C and lessens the need for salt. It also has lycopene, carotenes and boasts a high amount of flavonoids and antioxidants.

Vitamins A and C are good for your dog, however, you don’t always need to feed them vitamin C because as young pups they create it in their livers on their own, but as they age, it is not a bad idea to feed them some.

Vitamin C can help with cognitive aging, skin and coat health, immune health and reduce inflammation. So if your dog has arthritis or other ailments, vitamin C can be very good for them in moderate doses!

Lycopene can help cut down the risk of heart disease and build strong bones! Interestingly enough, Lycopene has been rumored to reduce the risk of cancer and protect the eyesight of canines further into their aging.

This all aligns with why parsley is found in many dog foods and treats already. It can be used as a breath freshener and help sooth the stomach as well.

Other Plants That Are Good For Dogs To Eat

Basil is known to be safe for dogs and is packed with antioxidants. Peppermint is also safe for dogs, just not english pennyroyal or anything not in leaf form including; chewing gum, breath mints, tic tacs etc…

Those products can contain xylitol, a very dangerous sugar replacement that dogs must not have. Even just a small amount of xylitol can be deadly for dogs.

Rosemary is another healthy plant dogs can have. Shown to act as an antioxidant high in calcium and vitamin B6. Rosemary is quite high in iron, however, so keep an eye on that should you choose to feed your dog rosemary consistently.

Serving These Plants To Your Dog

Nothing too special here, while you’re cooking dinner, set aside a small chopped portion of these leaves (cooked or not) and sprinkle them on your dog’s dinner for some added vitamins and nutrients. Remember not to go overboard, there is such a thing as too many vitamins.

Stick with a small amount every once in awhile, there is no reason to feed your dog too much unless he is deficient in any particular vitamin.

If you feed your dog to many vitamins and antioxidants, it will more than likely lead to some loose stool and a potential upset stomach. Younger dogs won’t be in as much need for the vitamins as older dogs, however, a little serving a few times a week can really benefit them as they age.

Conclusion

Most human foods are not recommended for dogs, but parsley leaves can definitely be a plus in moderation. Sprinkling a small handful of parsley, peppermint (other than english pennyroyal) or basil into your dog’s food can be a great health addition moving forward.

If you do in fact start feeding this to your dog consistently, check with your vet to make sure it will fit into your dog’s diet, and if it is necessary.