Herbs have always been recommended as a healthy part of a nutritious diet for us and it is believed that many of them have medicinal properties and uses. With oregano being considered one of these herbs, you may be wondering whether oregano is good, bad, or just OK for dogs. In moderation, oregano is safe for dogs to eat and can be given to them as fresh or dried herbs.
Oregano oil can also be used to help treat a variety of conditions for your dogs, including arthritis. Below, we will take a look at the many benefits of oregano, and also how to use its oil to treat various illnesses and injuries in dogs.
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Health Benefits of Oregano For Dogs
Oregano can be used to help treat a number of ailments in humans and dogs. In moderation, it’s completely safe for dogs and can even be included on a daily-basis as an added supplement to their normal meals.
Oregano has been found to help treat and prevent certain health conditions including sore throats, bronchitis, asthma, gastrointestinal issues, arthritis, and more!
Other ailments that oregano may help with include:
- Colds
- Bloating
- Heartburn
- Other stomach issues
- Urinary tract infections
- Heart problems
- Wounds
- Skin conditions
- Ringworm
- Canker sores
With all these health benefits, you may be wondering why all dog owners don’t add oregano to their pups’ diets. Unfortunately, most dogs tend not to like the flavor of oregano, which makes it difficult to get them to eat some.
Therefore, you shouldn’t try to give your dogs straight oregano and opt to sneak in a small portion by mixing it into their regular wet or dry dog food and treats. Oregano will enhance the flavor of the mix that you dogs can enjoy without being too overpowering.
Oregano Oil For Dogs
As an alternative to over-the-counter antiseptic for cuts and wounds on your dogs, you can actually use oil of oregano to treat them. Oil of oregano is a natural antiseptic that helps keep germs from spreading and infecting wounds.
It’s often used as a topical application, and can also be used to treat rashes and other skin conditions. You can also use oil of oregano to keep your dogs’ coats shiny while also maintaining exceptional skin health.
If you’re thinking of adding oil of oregano into your dogs’ diets, make sure to dilute it by mixing it in with tea or their food.
Oregano Can Irritate Some Dogs
In most cases, moderate amounts of oregano is both safe and healthy for dogs. However, the ASPCA considers oregano to be a stomach irritant, which may cause some dogs to experience symptoms including stomach upset, vomiting, and diarrhea.
As with any new food introduced into your pups’ diets, you should start with very small amounts of oregano to make sure that they don’t exhibit any adverse reactions to this healthy and flavorful herb.
Yes, Dogs Can Eat Oregano in Moderation
Oregano remains a good option if you prefer holistic, natural remedies to help treat injuries and other dog health problems. However, you should definitely consult with your veterinarian if you’re using it as a treatment option to make sure it’s safe for your dogs.
Be sure to make the most of your time and use the opportunity to ask about other foods, vegetables, and herbs that can be added to your dogs’ diets to establish a well-balanced, whole-food diet that they will enjoy eating!