Is Sage Safe for Dogs? How to Feed Sage to Dogs Safely

Sage (Salvia officinalis) is an easy-to-grow perennial herb from the mint family (Lamiaceae). Home cooks and professional chefs use the popular culinary herb to flavor savory foods such as meat, poultry, vegetables, and sauces. Traditionally, the sage herb was a topical treatment for wounds and sores due to its natural astringent and antiseptic properties.

There are many species of sage, including white sage and pineapple sage, but common sage (also known as garden sage) is the best-known variety.

Yes, sage is safe for dogs to consume. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) recognizes all parts of the sage plant, including the leaves, stem, and flowers, as nontoxic for canines.

Aside from enhancing flavor, there are several potential health benefits of adding sage to your dog’s diet:

• Anti-inflammatory: Due to its high levels of a chemical compound called rosmarinic acid, sage may have natural anti-inflammatory properties. Rosmarinic acid may even reduce the symptoms of seasonal allergies.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals: Sage contains several vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin K, and trace amounts of calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and zinc.
• Antimicrobial: Sage has natural antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, which destroy harmful organisms that could lead to infection or fungal growth. Sage kills the oral bacteria that cause smelly dog breath, making it a natural breath freshener.

Although sage is safe for dogs, you should serve it to them in moderation. Here’s how:

• Consider your dog’s size. Feed your dog small quantities of fresh sage or dried sage, both of which are available at your grocery store.
• Prepare the sage properly. Either chop fresh sage leaves or sprinkle a pinch of dried leaves into your dog’s food. The recommended amount is a quarter teaspoon for small dogs and no more than one teaspoon for larger dogs.
• A little goes a long way. Sage is a pungent herb, so adding large quantities may make your dog’s meal unappetizing. You can also add sage to homemade dog treats for an occasional snack.
• Monitor your dog for side effects. Sage contains thujone, a chemical that can be dangerous in high doses, causing side effects such as seizures and damage to the liver or nervous system. Feeding large amounts of sage to your dog can result in indigestion, vomiting, or diarrhea.

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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