Can Dogs Eat Spearmint? What You Need To Know

It’s in the mint family and a cousin to peppermint, so can dogs eat spearmint? Read this guide to find all the details!

In this article, I will address questions about dogs and spearmint, whether it’s safe, toxic, good, bad, okay, (and more). As a dog owner, you know that just because it’s safe doesn’t mean it’s good for them. You’ll also find types and varieties of spearmint. Now, let’s get on with the information you’re seeking.

For ultimate pet safety, I recommend consulting with your vet about all the questions you have about your dog eating spearmint.

What Is Spearmint

Spearmint is an herb in the lamiaceae family (mint family). Its scientific name is Mentha spicata, and it is a cousin to peppermint.

Spearmint originated in Europe and Asia, but it currently grows on five continents around the globe. Fun fact is that it’s called a spearmint because the leaves are shaped like a spear.

You might already know the name because it’s found in a lot of things we use everyday. You’ll find spearmint in toothpaste, mouthwash, and even chewing gum. Some people also diffuse spearmint essential oil.

But one of the most popular ways to enjoy spearmint is to brew the dried leaves in a tea.

In addition to human use, you’ll find spearmint in a lot of commercial products for dogs, too.

Now that you know what it is, let’s look at whether dogs should eat it (or be around the essential oil).

Can Dogs Eat Spearmint

According to veterinarians, fresh or dried spearmint is safe for dogs, but only in small amounts. If you notice your pup munching on fresh leaves from your spearmint plant, don’t freak out. They will probably be just fine.

There are thousands of species of mint plants out there, but in this guide, we’ll address spearmint. Pet owners, this is safe for dogs to eat in small bits.

Most of the information out there is for peppermint since you see it all over the place. (It’s used a lot more frequently than spearmint). So if you’re looking for info on peppermint, check out my peppermint and dogs guide.

Can Dogs Have Spearmint

Since spearmint has a milder flavor than peppermint, fresh and dried leaves are safe for dogs to eat. You can make homemade breath mints for your pup with the leaves.

Mint is also commonly used as a way to treat an upset stomach in humans and dogs. So, if your dog has stomach upset, adding a spearmint leaf to their water could help soothe their tummy.

Pet parents, please talk to your veterinarian about the best way to use spearmint to support your dog’s health. Large amounts could do more harm than good. It’s important to use the right amount.

Can Dogs Eat Spearmint Candy

Have you ever been tempted to give your dog some spearmint candy as a way to help your dog’s breath smell better? It’s probably best that you avoid doing that. This is because dogs shouldn’t eat too much sugar.

Too much sugar can lead to tooth decay and weight gain. Your dog’s diet should be low in added sugar.

If the candy is labeled as “sugar-free,” keep it away from your pup.

Do not let your dog eat any kind of candy if it is made with any kind of artificial sweetener – but especially xylitol because is toxic to dogs.

Can Dogs Eat Spearmint Leaves

Yes, dogs can safely eat small amounts of spearmint leaves. You could sprinkle them in their dog food or make dog treats with them.

In fact, a few leaves could give your dog minty fresh breath! It’s a dog safe type of mint, as long as you use the recommended amount from your dog’s veterinarian.

It’s a natural source of dietary fiber, too. So too much could give your dog the urge to poop!

Is Spearmint Safe For Dogs

Yes, mint is safe for dogs, as long as you control how much they eat.

Even though spearmint has many health benefits for us humans, the same isn’t true for our doggy friends. This is mainly because to get the health benefits, dogs would have to ingest more mint than is good for them.

But, in controlled amounts, it can be good for your dog’s stomach. You might also find the oil in some all-natural flea powders. And you might even be able to combat bad breath with some dried spearmint or fresh mint leaves.

Is Spearmint Bad For Dogs

Spearmint is safe for dogs. But always read the ingredients before giving any mint products to your pup. It’s always a good idea to check with your dog’s veterinarian before sharing human foods with your fur baby.

This popular herb is safe in very small amounts. Out of all the mint species, it is one of the safest ones for dogs.

Is Spearmint Oil Safe For Dogs

Spearmint oil is safe for dogs, but only in very small amounts and only if it’s used with a carrier oil. If you use too much or without a carrier oil, it could cause skin irritation.

The American Kennel Club states that “some essential oils are poisonous to dogs. This includes oil of cinnamon, citrus, pennyroyal, peppermint, pine, sweet birch, tea tree (melaleuca), wintergreen, and ylang ylang. These oils are toxic whether ingested by mouth or spread on the skin.”

If this is confusing news because of all the pet products that list peppermint oil as an ingredient, they addressed that. “If you want to use essential oils with your dogs, there is an easy way to do it safely: Talk to your veterinarian.” Basically, the studies are so confusing that it’s best to talk to a veterinarian and work out care that is tailored directly to your dog.

They didn’t list spearmint in that list above. But since it’s a cousin to peppermint, it’s best to use teeny amounts of the oil on or around your furry best friend. And make sure you dilute it with a carrier oil like coconut oil.

Please speak to your veterinarian before applying the oil directly to your dog’s skin or giving it to them so you know how much and how to do it. Mint toxicity could cause liver failure if you do it wrong.

A bottle of spearmint essential oil and fresh spearmint leaves.

Is Diffusing Spearmint Oil Safe For Dogs

It’s dangerous to diffuse essential oils around your dog. This is because dogs have a much more sensitive nose than humans do. So this makes them super sensitive to that strong oil.

Dog owners, use your essential oil diffusers in rooms where your dog doesn’t go.

Final Thoughts

The short answer is that small amounts of spearmint are a safe and natural way to treat stinky breath in your dogs. However, the use of essential oils on or around dogs should be handled with caution. Speak to your dog’s veterinarian about how much to use and how to dilute it with a carrier oil.

More Dog Food Resources

Have more questions about what herbs your dog can eat? Here are some more resources to help you out.

Find lots of articles on herbs and spices dogs can and can’t eat right here on Spoiled Hounds!

📌 Pin this to save and share 📌