Basil is a commonly used herb that has many health benefits for humans. But does this apply to our canine companions too? Can dogs eat basil, or is basil toxic to dogs?
Can dogs eat basil?
Dogs can eat basil, and in moderate amounts, basil may provide some health benefits to your dog’s diet. However, not all dogs enjoy the flavor of basil, and there are some risks to take into consideration when feeding basil to dogs.
If served to your dog correctly and safely, many dogs will enjoy basil as part of their diet. However, basil should not be fed to dogs that have a history of plant allergies.
What are the health benefits of basil?
Basil is a fresh green herb that is used to add a delicious flavor to recipes. It is very low in calories and a great source of essential vitamins and minerals.
Fresh basil is high in vitamins A and K. Vitamin A plays a role in maintaining vision and eye health, while vitamin K is a vital part of the blood clotting mechanism.
Basil also contains high levels of antioxidants, which help to eliminate free radicals in the body. This reduces inflammation and age-related degeneration and diseases such as cancer. Antioxidants are also very beneficial for dogs that suffer from arthritis.
Ongoing research has shown that basil may be beneficial in regulating blood sugar levels in animals. This means that basil could be a useful addition to the diet of dogs that have been diagnosed with diabetes.
Basil also contains a compound called eugenol, which may help to relieve the symptoms of digestive upsets.
And finally, basil contains adaptogens, which help the body cope with stress. This has been shown to be beneficial in relieving feelings of anxiety.
What should I be aware of when offering basil to my dog?
The first thing to bear in mind when feeding basil to your dog is that not all dogs like the taste of herbs. So, don’t be too disappointed if your dog refuses to eat his dinner when you add basil to it!
If your dog does enjoy eating basil, feed it little and often rather than in large amounts. The best way to feed basil add chopped fresh basil leaves to your dog’s normal food – around a teaspoon is sufficient for a medium-sized dog.
Never allow your dog to eat large amounts of basil, as this may cause digestive problems such as loose stools. If your dog develops a taste for basil, it may be a good idea to put any basil plants in your yard out of reach of your precious pooch.
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