Basil for Dogs: A Complete Guide
While human historical texts from ancient India and Greece that celebrate holy basil and sweet basil for reducing anxiety and inflammation don’t specifically mention these treatments for dogs, because dogs were domesticated from wolves some 35,000 years ago and basil has been cultivated by humans for over 5,000 years, it is virtually certain that dogs first ingested basil thousands of years ago since throughout our shared history, humans have treated their dogs with proven therapeutic herbs.
Can dogs eat basil?
Yes, dogs can eat basil, says our in-house dog nutritionist. It contains a variety of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that support canine health.
In clinical studies, it has been shown to be as effective as over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications making it an excellent, natural dietary addition to help soothe joint swelling and manage pain in arthritic or ageing dogs.
What are the health benefits of feeding a dog basil?
This fragrant herb is packed with essential nutrients, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties that support a dog’s long-term health.
Specific health benefits of feeding dogs basil include:
- Cellular protection: high levels of antioxidants like beta-carotene in basil fight oxidative stress, protect cells from free radical damage and slow down the effects of ageing.
- Joint and disease support: powerful essential oils in the herb act as natural anti-inflammatories which can alleviate arthritis pain and help prevent chronic inflammatory conditions.
- Immune & blood health: basil is rich in vitamin K which is essential for healthy blood clotting and vitamin A which supports immune function, vision and cellular health).
- Metabolic regulation: basil helps increase insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels, making it helpful in preventing or managing canine diabetes.
- Essential minerals: basil provides magnesium, iron and calcium which support bone health, cellular energy production and proper muscle function.
How much basil to feed a dog
As I’m very fond of saying, there are no hard-and-fast rules when it comes to feeding dogs herbs.
As a general guide for basil though:
- Small dogs (under 10kg): a tiny pinch of dried basil or 1/4 teaspoon of fresh chopped leaves per day.
- Medium dogs (10–25kg): 1/4 teaspoon of dried basil or 1/2 teaspoon of fresh chopped leaves per day.
- Large Dogs (over 25kg): 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil or 1 full teaspoon of fresh chopped leaves per day.
How to feed a dog basil
1. Take a handful of fresh basil leaves and puree them in a blender with a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and a splash of water. Drizzle a teaspoon over your dog’s food by way of a dressing.
2. Finely chop fresh basil leaves and mix them into Greek yogurt or kefir. Drop a single fresh blueberry into an ice cube tray, top with the basil-yogurt mix and freeze for a cooling summer snack.
Basil also forms part of our 100% natural plant-based supplement for homemade dog food, Dog Chef Seasoning.
Search our Basil recipes:
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are the health benefits of basil for dogs?
A. Basil contains several essential nutrients and plant compounds that can boost your dog’s health:
- Antioxidants: rich in antioxidants like beta-carotene, it helps reduce inflammation, protect cells from damage, and boost the immune system.
- Blood sugar regulation: basil can help increase insulin sensitivity, which is beneficial for managing or preventing canine diabetes.
- Vitamins & minerals: Basil offers vitamin K (crucial for blood clotting and healing rashes), vitamin A, vitamin C magnesium and iron.
- Antibacterial properties: a small amount can support your dog’s ability to fight off harmful bacteria.
Q. How much basil can I give my dog?
A. Basil should be fed in modest amounts.
- Extra-small/small dogs: a small pinch of finely chopped fresh leaves or roughly 1/8 of a teaspoon.
- Medium/large dogs: up to a quarter-teaspoon or a few finely chopped fresh leaves mixed into food.
- Dried basil: dried basil is highly concentrated, so use a very tiny shake (half the fresh equivalent).
Q. Can dogs eat pesto or basil sauces?
A. No, you should never feed your dog pesto or prepared basil sauces. While plain basil is safe, pesto recipes typically contain heavy amounts of onions which are highly toxic to dogs and destroy their red blood cells. Pesto also contains excessive salt, oils, and potentially dangerous nuts (like macadamia nuts). Stick exclusively to plain, fresh or dried leaves.
Q. Can I give my dog basil essential oil?
A. Never give your dog basil essential oil. Essential oils are incredibly concentrated and can quickly cause severe toxicity if ingested or applied directly to a dog’s skin.
Q. Can dogs eat basil seeds?
A. Yes you can. If you choose to feed them for their fibre and omega-3 content, soak them thoroughly in water for at least 15 minutes until they turn into a soft gel before mixing them into food.
Q. How should I prepare basil for my dog?
A. 1. Wash thoroughly. Clean the fresh leaves completely to remove any trace of dirt, pesticides or chemical residues.
2. Cut the fresh leaves into small pieces to make them easy to digest.
3. Stir the fresh or dried herb directly into your dog’s regular food.
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