More and more dog owners are feeding their dogs homemade dog food or making their own natural dog training treats. This involves using a variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs – and each one needs to be researched before you use it to be sure it’s safe for dogs to eat.
Recently I read an article about the benefits of basil for humans, and it made me wonder: Can dogs eat basil?
Let’s find out.
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Types of Basil
Once I started learning more about basil, I quickly realized there are many different varieties. Here are just a few of the more commonly used varieties:
Genovese Basil
This is the most widely used culinary basil that many of us are familiar with. You can buy this fresh in the grocery store, or plant it at home in your herb garden.
Sweet Basil
Sweet basil is very similar to Genovese basil, but its flavor is slightly more sweet and mild.
Lemon Basil
As you would guess, lemon basil has a citrus scent and flavor in addition to the traditional basil flavor.
Thai Basil
Thai basil has purple flowers and stems and adds a spicy licorice flavor.
Holy Basil (Tulsi)
Holy Basil has more of a minty, anise flavor. It can be used for cooking but is also known for its calming and therapeutic properties.
Are Basil And Holy Basil Different?
Some of you – especially if you have a dog that is reactive, fearful, or anxious – may have read about the herb Holy Basil.
And if you’re like me, you may have started to wonder: are basil and holy basil different? And, will my dog get the same benefits from the basil I buy at the grocery store as it will from holy basil?
The quick answer is that holy basil and basil are definitely different, and your dog will get different benefits depending on which one you are giving them.
“Regular” Basil (as in not holy basil) – the herb I’m talking about in this article – is a primarily Mediterranean herb used in dishes like spaghetti or pizza.
Holy Basil, on the other hand, is an Asian herb that is predominantly used in Thai dishes and teas. It is also considered an adaptogen – a plant that helps your body respond to anxiety, stress, fatigue, and overall well-being.
Studies of holy basil on humans have shown it to be effective in lowering blood pressure, lowering blood sugar, and reducing anxiety and associated stress and depression.
I have used Holy Basil for my reactive dog and had good success: reactions to things he sees (dogs and/or people) are more tempered and not as extreme or quick to happen. He also recovers more quickly from stressful incidents.
If you want to learn more be sure to check out my article about adaptogens for dogs.
Can Dogs Eat Basil?
Now that you know about the different types of basil, let’s answer the million-dollar question: Can dogs eat basil?
Yep, they definitely can.
That said, if you do feed your dog basil you want to feed it in small amounts, especially if your dog hasn’t had it before. According to Dr. Beth Turner, even though basil is non-toxic for dogs, too much of it can cause loose stools, tummy upset, and vomiting.
Benefits of Basil For Dogs
According to registered (human) dietitian Gillian Culbertson, RD, LD at Cleveland Clinic,
“Basil contains nutrients and compounds that can help stave off chronic diseases, including cancer, diabetes, heart disease and arthritis. On top of that, basil has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits. And it may even boost your mental health, depending on the variety and form that you use.”
Basil’s vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can contribute to your dog’s health. Here are the primary nutrients found in basil and their role in supporting your dog’s health:
Antioxidants
Basil is high in antioxidants including beta carotene, an antioxidant known for its immune-boosting properties. Antioxidants help prevent oxidative damage to cells, can help prevent cancer, and also help reduce inflammation.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A plays an important role in healthy vision. It is also a key building block for immune function, cell function, healthy growth, and supports fetal and puppy development.
Vitamin K
Vitamin K is critical for blood clotting.
Magnesium
Magnesium is required for hundreds of vital body functions including bone health, muscle function, antioxidant levels, heart health, neurological health, absorption and metabolism of vitamins and minerals, and more.
In addition to these nutrients found in basil and their effect on your dog’s health, one study found that certain components in basil leaves modulated blood glucose levels to help prevent and control diabetes in dogs.
Nutritional Profile For Basil For Dogs
After reading about the benefits of basil for dogs, I was curious what a nutritional profile would look like. It’s pretty impressive, take a look!
USDA food data profile for 2 leaves of fresh basil:
Is Basil Toxic to Dogs?
As discussed above, when fed by itself basil is not toxic to dogs.
BUT, many human meals that have basil in them also contain ingredients that can be toxic to dogs such as onion and garlic. So if you want to add basil to your dog’s diet here and there, don’t assume you can just give them some of your basil-containing dinner!
It’s also important to remember that if you feed your dog too much basil they might get stomach upset – so small amounts are best.
Can Dogs Eat Pesto?
If you are a pesto fan, you might be wondering if you can just give your dog basil by feeding them some of the pesto you’re mixing into your pasta dinner.
The easy answer is no – don’t do it.
If you drop a blob of it on the floor your dog will be fine, but in general it’s not a good idea. Many pesto recipes have garlic, which can be toxic to dogs in large quantities. They also can have large amounts of salt which isn’t good for your dog.
So if you’re looking for the beneficial qualities of basil, give your dog basil by itself instead of in a recipe. You’ll be able to know the exact quantity your dog is getting and avoid the other ingredients that they don’t need or shouldn’t have.
How Much Basil Can Dogs Eat
Dr. Turner recommends 1/8 to 1 teaspoon (dry or fresh herb sprinkled) on your dog’s food. Obviously if your dog is small stick to the lower end of that range, and with all dogs, start with less and work up.
Rotate it with other healthy herbs and foods to get a well-rounded mix of nutrients into your dog’s diet.
Can Your Dog Eat Basil? YES!
Basil is a safe herb for dogs, and can be incorporated into a balanced homemade dog food. As always, be sure to find a holistic vet to consult with if you are making your dog’s food to ensure your dog is getting the nutrients they need!
Until next time —
Naturally,
Karen
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