Dog Friendly Herbs You Can Grow in Your Home

As you may know, I’m a big proponent of adding healthy fruits and veggies to my dogs’ diets. The nutrients and vitamins that these delicious foods offer are undeniable. But what about herbs? Did you know that certain herbs can also add nutritional value to your dogs meal? Although I’d love to get a vegetable garden growing in my yard, I haven’t done so yet. In the meantime, however, I am growing herbs! The best part is you don’t need a large amount of space to grow herbs – you don’t even need a yard! All you need is some indoor space with natural sunlight, and you’re ready to grow! Check out this list of dog friendly herbs you can grow in your home.

Dog Friendly Herbs

Lavender: Lavender is proven to be effective in easing human and animal anxiety. It’s soothing properties can be helpful if your dog is stressed out. Often times lavender essential oils are used for anxious dogs and humans, and it can also be an effective insect repellent. Fresh lavender can be used to make essential oils for your dogs healing needs, but make sure your pup does not ingest any type of essential oil.

Rosemary: Rosemary is a popular herb for human food dishes, and you may want to start adding it to your dog’s meals! It’s a natural antioxidant, packed with calcium and iron.

Basil: Basil is an extremely easy herb to grow. I’ve been growing some by my kitchen sink with light from the window and it thrives! Basil has wonderful anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties that can be beneficial to your dog.

Mint: Mint can be used to freshen your dog’s breath, just like it can for humans. It’s also known to aid in your dog’s digestive process. If your dog has an upset tummy, try adding some mint to a meal or treat.

Parsley: Like mint, parsley will keep your dog’s breath smelling fresh! It’s also full of vitamins B, C and K. Parsley is a good source of iron as well.

Thyme: Thyme is like a great mixture of all the above herbs. It’s an antioxidant full of vitamins and anti-bacterial properties. Thyme has the ability to assist in your dog’s cognitive function and gastrointestinal processes.

Ginger: Ginger is a great natural remedy for your dog’s upset stomach. It can soothe nausea, which is great if you have a pup who suffers from motion sickness.

All of the herbs I listed can thrive in outdoor or indoor conditions, given appropriate temperatures, water and sunlight. I’ve found that most of these herbs thrive in the Arizona spring weather (sunny and 65-75°). During the summers and cold winters, the herbs will do much better indoors.

Like humans, dogs can have allergic or poor reactions to herbs and foods. When giving your furry friend something new, be sure to look out for any negative effects. If you think your dog is having a reaction to an herb or food, contact your local veterinarian immediately. If you have any specific questions on the dog friendly herbs listed above, please consult your vet.