What Spices Are Good for Dogs

If you’re a dog owner, you know how important it is to keep your dog healthy and happy. One way to do that is by feeding them the right food.

Did you know that some spices can be good for dogs, too? Just like humans, dogs can benefit from certain spices that not only add flavor to their meals but also offer some health perks.

We’ll cover simple and safe options that can boost your dog’s well-being without causing any harm, whether you want to help your dog’s tummy feel better or make their meals tastier.

So, if you want to learn about types of spices with names that can make your dog’s tail wave with joy.

We’ll keep it easy and simple so you can spice up your dog’s life healthily.

1. Turmeric

A person holding a yellow dog bone turmeric in front of their mouth

Turmeric is a bright yellow spice that’s a flavor for fighting inflammation. It has something called curcumin that can help your dog’s achy joints and make them less swollen, especially if they have arthritis.

You can sprinkle a little turmeric on your dog’s food, but it’s the best idea to talk to your doctor first. They can help you determine how much to use so your dog feels better. Your doctor knows what’s best for your pet’s health, so ask them about turmeric.

2. Cinnamon

 A pug dog happily munching on a pastry with cinnamon on a plate.

Cinnamon is a tasty spice that can be helpful for your dog. If your dog has diabetes or trouble with insulin, cinnamon can help. Cinnamon also fights off bad stuff in your dog’s body with its power called antioxidants.

To share these benefits with your dog, just put some cinnamon powder on their food. It’s an easy way to make their meals yummy and greater for them. Sprinkle some cinnamon on your dog’s food, and they’ll be super happy.

3. Ginger

A dog happily chewing on a ginger root,

Ginger is a spice for dogs. It helps when they have tummy troubles, like feeling sick during car rides or having a yucky belly. You can help your dog by adding a bit of fresh or powdered ginger to their food or giving them a tasty ginger treat.

Ginger is not just yummy. It also helps with their tummy. So, if your dog’s tummy isn’t happy, try giving them some ginger, and they might feel favorable, too.

4. Parsley

A dog sitting next to a bowl of greens

Parsley is the best spice for your dog’s food, even though it’s technically an herb. It can help make your dog’s breath smell better and give them some vitamin C and other wonderful stuff. Just chop up some fresh parsley and put it on your dog’s food to make it taste finer and healthier.

So, parsley might be a regular herb, but it can make your dog’s meals yummier and greater for them. Give it a try, and your dog will enjoy it.

5. Basil

A French Bulldog curiously sniffs green plants

Basil is safe for your dog, making their food smell yummy. It’s a special spice that’s perfect for them. Basil has two important vitamins, A and K, that keep your dog healthy. It also has antioxidants, which are like support that help your dog’s body.

How to treat your dog to some basil goodness: Take some fresh basil leaves, chop them up small, and mix them into their food. Your pup will love it, and it’s healthy too. Your dog will be happy with wagging tails and lots of love.

6. Oregano

A dog enjoying a bowl of vegetables and salad

Oregano is a great plant for your dog. Just sprinkle a little on their food, and it helps their body fight germs. It makes their food taste finer and keeps them strong. Your dog will love it, and you’ll love knowing you’re giving them something super healthy. So, try oregano and boost your dog’s power to stay healthy.

7. Thyme

A small dog happily munching on a thyme leaf from a plant

Thyme is a germ-fighting spice that can help your dog fight certain infections. Just use a tiny bit of your dog’s food. It’s not only tasty but also perfect at stopping bad germs. But be careful not to use too much. Just a little sprinkle is enough. So, when you add it to your dog’s food, remember to use just a tiny bit, and your dog will enjoy a healthy and yummy meal.

8. Rosemary

A woman named Rosemary feeding a dog a bowl of food

Rosemary is amazing for your dog. It has special stuff that helps your dog’s body and can stop inflammation. But don’t use too much; it might upset your tummy, and we don’t want that. Just sprinkle a tiny bit of dried rosemary on your dog’s food.

It’ll make their meal taste better, and they’ll give you those cute puppy-dog eyes to say thanks. You need to know that with rosemary, use just a little bit. That way, you get all the wonderful stuff without any bellyaches. Your body and your dog will be super happy.

Conclusion

All in all, knowing what spices are good for dogs can help keep our dogs happy and healthy.

We learned that some spices, like turmeric and ginger, can positively affect a dog’s well-being. However, it’s super important to remember that not all spices are safe for dogs.

Some, like garlic and onion, can be really harmful and even dangerous.

Before adding any spices to your dog’s food, it’s a perfect idea to chat with your doctor.

They can give you the best advice on what’s safe and how much to use.

If you want to give your dog spices to make their food tastier and healthier, just be sure to care for their well-being first.

Megan Liu

Holding a Master's in Animal Science from Texas A&M University, Megan Liu has spent over 15 years in animal behavior research and rehabilitation. She joined our editorial team in 2020, bringing a wealth of knowledge from her field experiences and academic studies. Megan is also a certified dog trainer, offering a unique pet care and training perspective. Her off-duty hours are spent volunteering at animal shelters and enjoying long nature walks.

Leave a Comment