Can Dogs Eat Cilantro? How to Feed Dogs Cilantro

Cilantro is an herb in the Apiaceae family of plants known for its delicate, bright green leaves with a shape reminiscent of flat-leaf parsley. To many, the cilantro plant has a pungent, herbaceous green flavor; to others, cilantro tastes like soap or metal. Taken from the Coriandrum sativum plant—or coriander plant—cilantro is also known as coriander, Chinese parsley, and Mexican parsley. The word “cilantro” comes from the Spanish word for coriander.

Cilantro is not toxic to dogs and poses no threat to your dog’s health so long as it’s eaten in moderate amounts. In fact, cilantro boasts numerous health benefits for your dog. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, a couple of fresh cilantro leaves can help ease an upset stomach and help with digestive issues. Cilantro is high in potent antioxidants, vitamin A, and vitamin C, which support a healthy immune system. It’s also high in vitamin K, which promotes healthy skin. It’s a good source of magnesium, calcium, manganese, and potassium, which can help your dog develop strong bones. Cilantro also has antifungal and antibacterial properties which can aid your dog’s digestive system. It’s also useful for freshening your dog’s breath.

When introducing human foods into your dog’s diet, it’s always wise to do so in small quantities. Though it is not common, it is possible that your dog may have an allergic reaction to a new food. If they’ve never eaten cilantro before, start by feeding them just a little bit of cilantro—a pinch of cilantro or a couple of leaves will do the trick. Keep a close eye on them to check for any side effects.

If they do not experience adverse symptoms, then it’s safe to include small amounts of cilantro in your dog’s meals. Chop up a few fresh leaves and mix them in with your dog’s food. You could also sprinkle some dried cilantro in with their food, or add cilantro oil extract to their water bowl. Keep in mind that if your dog eats large amounts of cilantro (say they get a little carried away in your herb garden), they may experience mild digestive problems.

Certain human foods can cause adverse reactions in canines, so always consult your veterinarian to determine whether it is safe to add these foods to your pet’s diet. This article is for educational and informational purposes and is not a substitute for medical or dietary advice.

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