It’s the iconic flavor in Indian and South Asian dishes, but can dogs eat garam masala? Read this guide so you can keep your fur babies safe.
Pet parents, there is a bunch of information out there about spices dogs can and cannot eat. Trying to find reliable information about dogs and garam masala can be confusing – I get it! In this guide, we will look at whether it’s a good idea to add this spice to your dog’s diet.
For ultimate pet safety, please ask your vet any questions you have regarding your dog eating garam masala.
What Is Garam Masala
Garam masala is a spice blend that you can easily find at the grocery store. It’s usually used in South Asian and Indian cuisine.
What’s in garam masala? It’s a blend of cinnamon, mace, peppercorns, coriander seeds, cumin seeds, and cardamom pods. All of these whole spices and herbs are toasted in a pan first and then ground into a fine powder. That’s why garam masala translates to “warm spices.”
It has a sweet and spicy flavor, from the earthy cinnamon and the bold peppercorns. But this is actually a trick question. The flavor of garam masala blends will change based on the region of India and who made it. For example, garam masala is spicier in southern India.
Garam Masala Vs Curry Powder
Is this the same thing as curry powder? Even though you’ll find recipes that use either one in curry dishes (like rice or soup) they aren’t the same thing. This is because garam masala doesn’t contain turmeric, and curry powder does.
Medicinal Properties
In addition to making pasta and soup taste amazing, garam masala has medicinal properties too.
Garam masala is known to naturally warm the body, increase metabolism, and do so much more. People who feel sluggish or like their body isn’t digesting things as well might add more of this spice blend to their food.
Speaking of metabolism, it’s known to promote digestive regularity and prevent constipation, too.
You might not know that it’s known to play a supportive role in preventing cancer, too. It does this by encouraging the body to detox and release harmful substances.
Finally, eating food that is spiced with garam masala is good for preventing diabetes. This is probably more from the cinnamon than anything else. Cinnamon is a powerful spice that helps the body lower blood sugar and be more sensitive to insulin.
Keep It Away From Dogs
So, should dogs eat garam masala? No, do not let your dog eat this spice blend or any foods that are made with this spice blend.
Let’s take a closer look at each of the spices in the blend and how safe or dangerous they are for dogs.
- Cinnamon – non-toxic
- Mace – Toxic, from the nutmeg family
- Peppercorns – safe in small amounts
- Coriander seeds – safe in small amounts
- Cumin seeds – safe in small amounts
- Cardamom pods – safe in small amounts
- Bay Leaf – toxic from the eugenol
As you can see, two ingredients in garam masala are toxic to dogs – mace and bay leaves.
Mace comes from the same plant as nutmeg. As I described in my dogs and nutmeg article, it’s a very dangerous spice for dogs. If they eat mace, they might experience:
- High Blood Pressure
- Hallucinations
- Increased Heart Rate
- Abdominal Pain
- Seizures
The amount of mace or nutmeg your dog consumes is what determines how dangerous it is, but it’s best to keep it away from dogs entirely.
And bay leaves are toxic as well. They contain eugenol and dangerous essential oils. Dogs that eat bay leaves are at risk for diarrhea or vomiting.
Dangers For Dogs
Since every spice blend is different, it’s best to keep all food made with garam masala away from your dog.
You never know how spicy the food will be, how much mace or bay leaves are in it, and whether they used a bunch of other spices that are toxic to dogs.
If you don’t know exactly what is in it, keep it away from your furry friend.
Dogs that eat garam masala are at risk of gastrointestinal upset or toxicity.
Chicken Tikka Masala For Dogs
So, can you give chicken tikka masala to your dog? No, it’s best not to give your dog any tikka masala. Not only could it be too spicy for them to eat, but it could give your dog the adverse effects listed earlier.
But if you want to make food for your dog, I have several dog-friendly recipes. In fact, my Instant Pot chicken and rice dish is a fantastic substitute for chicken tikka masala. And your dog won’t even miss all those spices!
Final Thoughts
As you can see, it’s best if you keep garam masala away from your dog. If you think your dog ate food that is spiced with it, watch them closely. If you notice them acting lethargic or sick, then contact your dog’s veterinarian.
More Dog Food Resources
What other human foods are safe for dogs? Here are some more resources about different spices dogs can and can’t eat:
Find lots of information about human food dogs can eat (and ones they can’t) here on Spoiled Hounds!
📌 Pin this to save and share 📌
Leave a Reply