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Can Dogs Eat Oregano? Is Oregano Bad for Dogs?

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By Nicole Cosgrove

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If you wonder if your dog can eat oregano, the short answer is yes, it can. It’s safe and may even be beneficial, but there are a few things to consider before providing it regularly, and we’ll look at them now. Oregano is a popular ingredient found in pizza, sauce, and many other foods. Many people also like to grow it because it’s a hardy and aromatic plant that tastes better when it’s fresh.

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Is oregano good for my dog?

Fresh and Dried Oregano
Image Credit By: ariesa66, pixabay

Oregano is an herb found in many recipes because it tastes great, but it also has several medicinal properties that can help dogs and humans.

Dry and fresh oregano

It’s safe to feed your dog in moderation, and you can even provide it as a daily supplement, which will act as a treat and a vitamin. You can supply the herb dried and ground or fresh.

Oregano is antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory. You can feed it to your dog to help treat many conditions, including sore throat, asthma, colds, bloating, heartburn, and more. The most popular way to obtain oregano is to purchase it already dried and ground in the spice section of your local grocery store or online. It’s also easy to grow, and a small pack of seeds is inexpensive and will result in hundreds of plants.

Oil of oregano

You can also feed your dog oil of oregano, which is an essential oil diluted in a carrier oil like sunflower, coconut, or olive oil. Oil of oregano is perfect if your dog doesn’t like the plant. However, you will need to make sure you do not add too much fat to its diet, leading to obesity, heart problems, and pancreatitis.

Oregano Essential Oil

You can also purchase oregano essential oil, which is cold-pressed oregano plants, and use it topically to help with other problems, including ringworm and rashes. Its antibacterial properties will help protect wounds while they heal. The antifungal properties will prevent the growth of mold and mildew and help eliminate them. The oil will help soothe the skin and can reduce dandruff. It also helps to repel fleas and ticks and is not harmful to your pet the way many other essential oils are.

Is oregano bad for my dog?

Oregano Leaf
Image Credit By: ariesa66, pixabay

Oregano can be bad for your dog if they eat too much. Too many dried or fresh plants can irritate your dog’s sensitive digestive system causing them to vomit or have diarrhea. Too much oil can also cause diarrhea and vomiting. The oil is also high in calories and may lead to obesity and even heart disease. Oil can also contain trans fats that are unhealthy for your dog to eat and other fats that can cause inflammation and joint pain.

How can I give my dog oregano?

The biggest problem we discovered when trying to feed our dog’s oregano was that the overwhelming majority of them do not like it, and it can be difficult to get them to consume their daily dose. Feeding your dog, the oil of oregano each day may add too much fat to its diet leading to weight gain.

It’s best to ask your vet for your pet’s ideal serving size based on its weight, breed, and age. Start small by sprinkling a small amount of fresh oregano on their food. As they get used to it, you can increase the amount until you reach the ideal amount. You can also use oregano oil on occasion, especially if your pet is suffering from constipation.

When applying oregano essential oil to the skin, you only need a very small amount. Most experts recommend dipping the tip of a toothpick in the oil and only applying that much to the affected area per day. The oil will spread throughout the day and will not make the area greasy or rub off on furniture or carpets. A small bottle can last a year or more.

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Final Thoughts

A small amount of oregano can be extremely beneficial to your dog and will help with a wide range of ailments from sore joints to a skin rash, whether it’s fresh dried or in oil form. It’s not harmful and will only cause an upset stomach if your dog eats too much, which it’s not likely to do.

We hope you have enjoyed reading and found the answers to any questions you may have had. If we have convinced you to add this amazing spice to your dog’s diet, please share this guide to feeding your dog oregano on Facebook and Twitter.


Featured Image Credit By: ariesa66, pixabay

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