Common sage is used in human food, but can dogs eat sage? Read this guide before giving your dog large amounts of sage.
Even if you plan on just giving your dog small amounts, this guide will tell you about the possible dangers and benefits of both the herb and the sage oil, so keep reading.
For ultimate pet safety, please ask your vet any questions you have regarding your dog eating sage.
What Is Sage
The scientific name of sage is Salvia Officinalis; it is an aromatic herb that is a member of the mint family. It has a bright and earthy flavor. Also called garden sage, it has many astringent properties that people use to fight things like digestive issues.
It is a woody perennial plant that people can grow in an herb garden or in their kitchens.
These edible plants also have antibacterial properties and people like to use sage essential oil for a lot of homeopathic remedies. But most people use sage in cooking or medicinally (like boiling dried sage with Epsom salts to treat skin infections).
Some people grow sage as an ornamental plant. Russian sage and pineapple sage are the most common ornamental varieties.
Sage Health Benefits
There are a lot of health benefits of sage for your and your canine friend.
Since this medicinal herb is from the mint family, you can use it to kill oral bacteria and help fight stinky dog’s breath.
Sage has many anti-inflammatory properties that make it a popular homeopathic remedy for sore throats. The antimicrobial properties of sage oil make it good to use for skin infections.
Sage contains rosmarinic acid, which is a natural polyphenol antioxidant that fights free radicals and helps your dog’s body prevent diseases.
Some people use it to naturally treat gastrointestinal tract infections. Please do not try to treat infections without consulting your dog’s veterinarian first.
It’s also high in vitamin K and is used (along with different herbs) to combat seasonal allergies.
Can Dogs Have Sage
Yes, it is safe for dogs to eat sage. In fact, many dog owners supplement their dog’s diet with this common herb.
The best way to give your dog sage is to sprinkle some of this pungent herb on their dog food. Just be careful with how much you use. If you give your dog too much sage, it might upset their stomach.
It is an excellent addition to your dog’s diet. There are a lot of culinary applications of sage and it’s a great way to boost your dog’s health since this herb has lots of vitamins in it.
Is Sage Safe For Dogs
Yes, sage is a safe herb for dogs.
In fact, one of the best ways to give sage to your dog is to make sage tea. Just steep some dried sage leaves in hot water and then let it cool down. You can even add it to your dog’s water.
Add sage to homemade dog treats, too. It will taste delicious in some chicken soup for dogs.
Is Sage Bad For Dogs
Even though sage is non-toxic, be careful with how much of it you let your dog eat. Too much could produce toxic effects. It takes excessive amounts to do this, so a sprinkle of dried sage or a few sage leaves shouldn’t hurt your dog.
Is Sage Poisonous To Dogs
No, small quantities of fresh sage leaves or dried sage is not poisonous to dogs. Large quantities might upset their tummy, but it isn’t poisonous.
Are Dogs Allergic To Sage
Even though dogs aren’t usually allergic to sage, it is still a good idea to introduce sage slowly and watch how your dog reacts to it.
Large doses of new foods – especially for small dogs – could give them diarrhea or cause them to vomit.
Types Of Sage and Dogs
All parts of the sage plant are safe for dogs, including:
- Dried Sage
- Fresh Sage
- Sage Leaves
- Sage Essential Oil
Just remember that all parts of the plant are high in dietary fiber. Dogs that eat a lot of fiber will probably get loose stools.
Can Dogs Eat Sage and Rosemary
Yes, dogs can eat fresh herbs, including sage and rosemary. Always give them small bits though, because too much could give them stomach upset.
Can Dogs Eat Sage Dressing
No, do not give your dog sage dressing (also called stuffing). It contains garlic and onion, which can cause lots of health issues in dogs, including digestive upset.
If you want to give your dog a Christmas dinner, I suggest making them a dog-friendly recipe.
Can Dogs Eat Sage Sausage
It’s best not to give your dog sage sausage. It’s really high in fat and could give your pup an upset stomach. Avoid the danger of poisoning by keeping your dog away from any type of food that contains garlic, onion, or xylitol.
Final Thoughts
The herb sage is safe for your four-legged friend. It could be good for your dog’s memory. Be careful with how much sage your canine companion eats and always introduce any new ingredient to your dog slowly.
More Dog Food Resources
What other human foods are safe for dogs? Here are some more resources about different herbs dogs can and can’t eat:
- Can Dogs Eat Basil
- Can Dogs Eat Cilantro
- Can Dogs Eat Thyme
- Can Dogs Eat Ginger
- Can Dogs Have Nutmeg
- Can Dogs Eat Oregano
Find lots of information about human food dogs can eat (and ones they can’t) here on Spoiled Hounds!
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Brenda Ahlstrom says
I want to thank you for all the information you post. And I love seeing the pups, too!! We have three dogs that weigh in at 15#, 50#, and 60#. Would a 1/4 tsp be too much for the bigger dogs? Sobber Kisses to yours from ours!!!!!
Renee Dobbs says
1/4 teaspoon would be fine for the larger dogs.