The best herbs for dogs: herbal remedies from your garden
Herbs are becoming popular healthy food supplements not only for humans but also for our canine companions. Find out about some suitable herbs for dogs and which of them are even meant to have healing properties.
Herbs have long been used by humans to add a little more flavour to meals and are also highly regarded as medicinal plants for all kinds of illnesses. But herbs are not just good for us humans – they can be a real boon for dogs too! In fact, there are many herbs that are suitable as healthy additions to your dog’s diet. Plus, some medicinal herbs that dogs can eat can help with certain illnesses and ailments. Find out which herbs are best for our four-legged friends and how to grow them in your own garden.
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Which herbs are suitable for dogs and which are not?
Many people assume that you can feed your dogs the same herbs that are considered edible for us humans, but this is not always the case. Some herbs, such as wild garlic (Allium ursinum), are poisonous for dogs. It is therefore important to always pay close attention not only to which herbs you feed your dogs but also to the ones they have access to in the garden. Be extra cautious when giving sick or pregnant animals herbal remedies and always talk to your vet prior to using medicinal herbs for dogs. They can help determine the exact dosage your dog needs and will also make sure the herbs in question do not have any adverse effects on any medications your pet may be on. Please note that, in the case of an emergency, medicinal herbs are not an alternative to a visit to the vet. Only use them as a supplement to your dog’s diet or to help with minor ailments or aches and pains. When using herbal remedies for dogs, there are a few things to keep in mind. For instance, as herbs treated with chemicals and pesticides are unsuitable for our furry friends, it is better to use wild herbs or fresh herbs from your own garden. These are a safer option and easy to grow yourself! We recommend using an organic sowing soil for growing medicinal herbs for dogs, such as our Plantura Organic Herb & Seedling Compost. Our soil is made from 100% natural raw materials and is safe for both pets and garden wildlife.
- Perfect for herbs as well as sowing, propagating & transplanting
- For aromatic herbs & healthy seedlings with strong roots
- Peat-free & organic soil: CO2-saving composition
When growing herbs for dogs, it is vital to avoid using chemical pesticides. Mineral fertilisers are also not suitable. To ensure that your herbs grow well and are safe for your pets, use an organic fertiliser, such as our Plantura All Purpose Plant Food. While dried herbs are also suitable for dogs, these usually have less of the healthy essential oils than fresh herbs. With both fresh and dried herbs, however, it is important to pay attention to the correct dosage. You only need to feed a very small quantity of herbs to your dogs – just as you would when seasoning your own food. If you are in any way unsure about the dosage, be sure to check with your vet first.
- Perfect for a variety of plants in the garden & on the balcony
- Promotes healthy plant growth & an active soil life
- Long-lasting fertiliser that is free from animal products - child & pet friendly
Planting medicinal herbs for dogs in your garden
Medicinal herbs for dogs from your own garden are great as part of a balanced diet. There are also many herbs dogs can eat that can be used as home remedies to help alleviate minor ailments. As long as you consult your vet beforehand, they can even be used as part of a medical treatment. Read on to discover some common medicinal herbs for dogs.
Stinging nettles (Urtica)
Though they may be unwelcome in our gardens, they are good for our health. For dogs, stinging nettles have a diuretic effect due to their high potassium content and can therefore be used to treat urinary tract and kidney infections. You can either give your dogs nettle tea or simply mix dried nettles straight into their food.
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) is a classic herb for dogs. It can help with irritated mucous membranes or coughs. While fennel tea is particularly beneficial for dogs with colds, the tuber itself is also a popular food and is high in vitamin C.
Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)
Chamomile is not only a tried and tested remedy for humans but for dogs too! Thanks to its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, dried chamomile and chamomile tea provide quick relief for gastrointestinal complaints.
Dandelion (Taraxacum)
Dandelion is one of the most effective wild herbs for dogs. On top of supporting liver and kidney function, it also stimulates the metabolism. While you can add dandelions to your canine companion’s meals, many dogs also like to nibble on the fresh blooms directly in the garden.
Marjoram (Origanum majorana)
Marjoram is useful to dogs in two ways. This herb can firstly help with coughs and respiratory irritation, and secondly, with bloating and other gastrointestinal complaints.
Oregano (Origanum vulgare)
Oregano not only tastes good to humans but is also another great medicinal herb for dogs. Fresh oregano is especially beneficial for dogs with bronchial complaints and coughs.
Parsley (Petroselinum crispum)
In small quantities, parsley can have a positive effect on a dog’s bladder and kidneys. It can also help treat a dog’s bad breath. Do note, however, that this herb is not suitable for pregnant dogs or those with kidney stones.
Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)
This aromatic herb is able to lift your dog’s mood and is effective against general exhaustion and loss of appetite. However, only feed rosemary to your dogs under medical supervision. It is not suitable for dogs with epilepsy.
Sage (Salvia officinalis)
Sage, like in humans, can also be used to treat respiratory complaints and colds in dogs. Aside from being beneficial for throat and mouth inflammation, sage is also a calming herb for dogs. It is often given in the form of sage tea, but it is also available in small quantities, either dried or fresh.
Ribwort Plantain (Plantago lanceolata)
Ribwort plantain is one of the most important wild herbs for dogs. When ingested, ribwort works as an expectorant on dogs, loosening mucus and helping to support the bronchial tubes. As it has an antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and haemostatic effect, you can also crush it and use it to treat minor wounds, such as insect bites.
In addition to medicinal herbs, there are also other non-medicinal herbs for dogs which, thanks to their high mineral and vitamin content, make a great addition to your dog’s diet. Most of the herbs mentioned below are also good for their gastrointestinal tract.
1. Basil (Ocimum basilicum): many dogs like to eat basil, which is great as it is rich in minerals and vitamins.
2. Garden cress (Lepidium sativum): is a healthy snack that is high in calcium and potassium. Many dogs like to nibble on garden cress directly in the garden, but you can also add fresh cress to their meals.
3. Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis): is particularly rich in vitamins. You can mix it fresh or dried into your dog’s food.
Herbs against worms and ticks
Whilst it would be great if there was some kind of miracle herb against worms, alas, there are no herbs that represent a reliable alternative to worming treatments. However, if your dog is particularly susceptible to worms, you can supplement their diet with some of the herbs listed below. Poor gut health is often to blame for the fact that your canine companion can no longer defend itself against these pests. Some herbs are good for the stomach and aid in establishing a healthy gut microbiota, therefore preventing a worm infestation. Some herbs that can be helpful against worms include:
- Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
- Oregano (Origanum vulgare)
- Caraway (Carum carvi)
- Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)
- Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)
So far, there are also no herbs that are proven effective against ticks either. While some essential oils derived from plants and herbs, such as geraniol or lavender oil, can make your pet less attractive to ticks, they do not provide reliable protection. Aside from the fact that some essential oils can be toxic to dogs, you must also bear in mind that some dogs may react sensitively to essential oils and skin irritations could occur. Garlic (Allium sativum), for instance, can be toxic for dogs if ingested in large quantities. If you wish to abstain from the use of chemical treatment options, veterinarians recommend thoroughly checking your pets for ticks after every walk and manually removing them if possible.
If you are both a dog lover and a keen gardener, then our products are ideal for you! Head over to our Plantura shop to check out our range of products for your garden, from composts to fertilisers and more. All of our products are entirely pet friendly and safe for any other animals that may visit your garden.
