4 Kitchen Herbs Your Dog Will Love (and Benefit From)

If you've got a well-stocked spice rack, chances are you're already growing some of the best treats for your dog — you just haven't offered them a taste yet. Basil, rosemary, oregano, and parsley are all non-toxic, antioxidant-rich staples that show up in your favorite recipes, and every one of them can double as a healthy bonus for your canine companion. A light sprinkle here and there is all it takes, so it couldn't hurt to give 'em a try.

Basil

The backbone of any good pesto and a fixture in Italian cooking, basil brings more to the table than flavor — it's also packed with antioxidants. Next time you're chopping basil for dinner, set a pinch aside and sprinkle it over your dog's food bowl.

Rosemary

Rosemary is rich in calcium and iron, making it a great addition to homemade dog food or the occasional topper on kibble. One thing to watch for: rosemary can be a bit sharp and woody straight off the stem, so chop it finely before adding it to your dog's meal.

Oregano

Oregano isn't just the go-to pizza topping — it's loaded with antioxidants, has natural anti-microbial properties, and carries a high concentration of flavonoids. It's even been used as a natural remedy for digestive issues, including gas and mild diarrhea, making it a handy herb to keep in mind for tummy troubles.

Parsley

(Not to be confused with Spring Parsley, which is toxic to dogs and cats — always double-check you're using the common culinary variety.)

Parsley is a familiar ingredient in dog treats thanks to its natural breath-freshening qualities, and it's also known to help soothe an upset or sour stomach. Turns out that sprig on your dinner plate is more than just garnish.

A Quick Note Before You Start Sprinkling

These herbs are generally safe in small amounts, but "a little goes a long way" is the rule of thumb — a light pinch mixed into food is plenty, and more isn't better. Every dog is different, so introduce one herb at a time and keep an eye out for any stomach upset. If your dog has existing health conditions or is on medication, it's worth checking with your vet before adding anything new to their diet.

With that in mind, your spice rack might just be the easiest way to add a little extra nutrition — and a lot of flavor — to your dog's next meal