Dogs can eat mint depending on the variety.
A fragrant plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family, mint is often used as a breath freshener or food and drink flavouring. There are certain varieties that are safe for dogs to eat. These include wild mint, spearmint, peppermint, and catmint. A small amount of these mint types can help improve your dog’s breath and aid in digestion.
On the other hand, English pennyroyal and garden mint are considered unsafe for canine pets. The chemical pulegone found in English pennyroyal is also toxic for people, causing liver damage and organ failure when large amounts are eaten. Meanwhile, the essential oils of garden mint can lead to vomiting and diarrhea.
What to do if your dog accidentally eats mint: Observe your dog for any sudden changes. Diarrhea, vomiting, and weakness are some symptoms to watch for. If he suffers from these, take him to the veterinarian immediately so he can be assessed and treated accordingly.
In summary: Limit the amount of edible mint leaves you feed to your dog. Too much mint may lead to gastrointestinal distress. If you grow mint in your backyard, check with your vet to make sure the mint variety is safe for your pet. That way, you won’t have to worry if he accidentally gets his paws on it.
Look through our “can dogs eat” category to find more human food your pooch can safely eat.
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