The holidays are approaching – and at Prudent Pet we have one thing and one thing only on our mind – holiday-themed cookies, treats, and desserts! But with all the delicacies the holidays have to offer, how do we know what human treats are safe for our furry friends to indulge in? When thinking about seasonal treats, one of the main ingredients that come to mind is Peppermint. Which leads us, pet-loving owners, to wonder…
Can I Feed my Dog Peppermint?
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Simply put, yes dogs can, in fact, consume and enjoy peppermint extract. Peppermint extract is not toxic for dogs. Consult your veterinarian for precise dosages.
However, too much peppermint may upset your pet’s tummy. Please consider that any change in your dog’s diet may lead to gastrointestinal problems. So just as giving your pup a peppermint treat may lead to vomiting or diarrhea, so could simply changing their kibble. Remember that when giving your dog special treats, to always do so in moderation. Too much of any type of treat can lead to digestive problems or unwanted weight gain.
Are Peppermint Candy Canes Bad for Dogs?
The answer to this question is yes, peppermint candy canes are bad for dogs. You should not feed Peppermint candy canes to your dog. While peppermint extract may not be harmful to your dog, it still is a very bad idea to give your dog candies such as a candy cane or a mint. These products do not just have peppermint as the main ingredient, they also contain toxins that can be terribly harmful to dogs. Most notably, candy canes contain xylitol, an artificial sweetener, which is extremely deadly for dogs. It is crucial to understand to NEVER give your dog any sweets containing xylitol as it will, without doubt, make your animal sick and can often be fatal. So, while we have established that peppermint may not be dangerous for your pup, take extreme caution with your animal when it comes to peppermint candies, because more likely than not the product will contain xylitol as well as other harmful toxins that can be found in most candies and sweets.
Other Holiday Treats to Avoid
- Anything with xylitol
- Fruitcakes
- Pies & Cobblers
- Chocolate
- Nuts
- Candy
What Holiday Treats can my Dog Eat?
We believe when it comes to your dog and special treats—not just peppermint—you should feed your furry friend homemade treats which you can control all the added ingredients. We also advise giving your animal treats deemed safe for dogs by ASPCA and veterinarians.
While certainly, you do not want to give your dog a candy cane, there are still ways your little buddy can enjoy peppermint. Try using peppermint as an ingredient when you bake homemade dog biscuits. Not only will your doggo enjoy the new tasty treat, but it’ll also help to freshen up their breath! As a dog owner myself, I think I speak for all dog lovers when I say that is a win-win for dogs and dog owners alike!
Homemade Peppermint Dog Treats
By: The Honest Kitchen Here is a great dog treat recipe that will help you get into the spirit of the season and more importantly a holiday treat your dogs will love!
Peppermint & Molasses Dog Treats Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour all-purpose gluten-free
- 1 tablespoon Honest Kitchen Pro Bloom
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon molasses
- 2 tablespoons peanut butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon peppermint extract
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F
- In a large bowl, mix flour, Honest Kitchen Pro Bloom, molasses, peanut butter, water, olive oil & peppermint extract until well combined
- Knead mixture on a floured surface and roll out to ¼ to ½ inch thickness. Cut with festive cookie cutters and place on non-stick cookie sheets
- Bake for 20-15 minutes or until lightly brown
- Cool on wire rack for 2-3 hours. Store treats in a sealed container and refrigerate or freeze.
More homemade dog treats to check out:
Will my Dog enjoy Peppermint Treats?
Like humans, all dogs have different preferences. Some dogs may like peppermint while others may not, but for the most part, your dog will love their new delicious treats.
Please consider that your dog’s senses – specifically scent of smell — are way stronger than your own. In fact, a dog’s sense of smell can be up to 60X stronger than a human! So, you may notice that your dog is extra sensitive to the strong scents of peppermint. Don’t worry, the scent is not harmful, your dog may just not prefer it!
Common Signs Your Pet has been Poisoned
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Dizziness, imbalance, or circling
- Seizures
- Loss of appetite
- Changes in behavior
- Extremely bloated abdomen
As always, if you are unsure about whether a product is safe for your dog’s usage or consumption, please consult your veterinarian. If you believe your pet has eaten something poisonous, immediately call your vet or you can also call the ASPCA Poison Control Hotline at 888-426-4435.
If you notice any of the above symptoms, it is imperative to act as fast as possible as your pet’s life may be in danger. To further prepare for the forthcoming holiday treats, we suggest reading up on what to do if your dog is exposed to poison or toxins.
Thankfully, dog insurance can help protect your pup if they have accidentally ingest things they’re not supposed to during the holiday season. Learn about the numerous benefits of enrolling your dog in health insurance.
The holidays are a special opportunity to spend time with your loved ones. Not only your human relatives but your precious dogs as well! It is important to understand how to keep your dog safe in these sometimes hectic months. Understanding what your dog can and cannot eat will go a long way in ensuring them a happy and healthy life!
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