As a dog owner, you will want to know how to keep your dog safe, happy, and healthy. And so you might be wondering, can dogs have oregano? We all know dogs must not eat certain foods such as chocolate and raisins, but what about particular herbs? Is it harmful or healthy for them?
Oregano is a herb found in many kitchens. It is often used to flavor cooking sauces, particularly those with a tomato base, like pizza or pasta dishes. Your dog might accidentally ingest some, if they find some sauce dropped at the dinner table or if they can sample some of your cooking!
If you are not careful with your food storage, a dog that exhibits destructive behavior and is not well trained may get into your herb rack, and if they ate some, you might be wondering whether it is safe for them to eat?
The oregano, Origanum vulgare, herb originates in the Mediterranean. It has many health benefits for humans and is a nutritious addition to sauces. It works well with tomato-based sauces and particularly with meat. It has a strong, sweet but savoury aroma and an earthy flavor.
Oregano contains certain compounds that contribute to good health and that act as antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal.
Most people recognize the herb as a dried, chopped leaf in a small jar; you might also have a live plant on your windowsill, keep it as oil, or have a herb mix that contains it. It can also be found in many prepared food items such as sauces and microwave meals. Your pooch might be able to access some of these, especially if they are destructive.
But are these accidental incidents something to be worried about?
So, is oregano safe for dogs? You will be relieved to know that dogs can have the herb. While the herb is safe for them, like other foods, they should only have a little bit! Dogs can benefit from the health benefits just like we do. Too much could be harmful.
So, can dogs have oregano oil? No, they should not consume oregano oil. Consumption can lead to vomiting, diarrhea and, at worst, liver issues. If they consume any oregano oil, your puppy could become very sick, so you should see your vet for advice.
So, if the herb is safe for dogs in small amounts and can offer similar health benefits as it does for humans - should we feed our dogs oregano?
It is acceptable to add oregano to your puppy's food. This might be especially useful if you prepare fresh food for your puppy and want to add some additional flavor or nutrients to boost their health and well-being. If you cook fresh food for your puppy, this is great because you know exactly what your puppy is eating.
Be careful not to use a seasoning mix that contains oregano and other items. It might include other seasonings that are harmful to your dog. Onion and salt, for example, should be avoided.
The safest way to give your dog the herb is to add a small amount of fresh oregano. If giving it to your dog for its health benefits, consult your veterinarian or a specialist dog nutritionist. They will advise you on the correct amount for your dog and if it is a suitable treatment for the condition you’re concerned about. It can be used as a topical application for minor skin conditions or infections due to antimicrobial properties.
There are lots of options when it comes to your puppy's diet. You might want to provide your puppy with fresh food. This could be a raw food diet, that is unsuitable for some breeds, or freshly cooked meals for your pooch. The advantage of freshly cooked food is you know exactly what is in it. And you can occasionally use small amounts of certain herbs, like oregano, to add health benefits and flavor to your dog’s meals.
Another option is to purchase manufactured dog food, such as Zignature Dog Food. This option could be meals already prepared, from tinned dog food to pellets. They are nutritionally balanced for everything your dog needs. But they are processed, so might not be as healthy an option for your pooch. It is also much quicker to give commercial food than to prepare freshly cooked meals for your dog.
You might be wondering if other herbs are suitable or safe for dogs - can dogs have turmeric, is rosemary safe for dogs, and can dogs eat cilantro?
All three of these herbs are safe for dogs and can be occasionally added to their food to improve flavor. And they can also offer various health benefits. Turmeric is anti-inflammatory and can help with joint pain, so it can be helpful for dogs with hip problems. It can cause stomach and digestive issues and allergic reactions. Seek veterinary advice if you have any concerns.
Rosemary is also safe and non-toxic and can help with digestion, but only in small amounts. Cilantro also contains many vitamins, and it also helps with digestion. Cilantro is easily found fresh, and you can chop the leaves and sprinkle them over your dog's food bowl.
Dogs can have oregano, but only in small amounts. It has antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antifungal properties, so it can be a beneficial addition to your puppy’s diet, especially if you cook fresh food for your pooch. This should be in small amounts, preferably fresh and dried if necessary.
You should speak to your veterinarian or a dog nutritionist for advice on safe amounts to give your dog. Especially if you would like to feed oregano regularly for its health benefits. Oregano oil is unsafe unless prescribed by a vet. Too much oregano can cause serious adverse effects. Otherwise, you can occasionally use a small amount of fresh or dried oregano on your dog's food.
24 April, 2025