Many dog parents wonder if mint leaves are safe for dogs. The answer could be yes and no due to the following reasons:

Mint contains vitamins A and C. These antioxidants support your pet’s vision and immunity. The antioxidant effects can also protect your dog’s cells from oxidative damage. Moreover, the antibacterial, antifungal, and antimicrobial properties of mint can freshen your dog’s breath.

However, certain varieties of mint can be toxic to dogs including peppermint, wild mint, and applemint. When consumed in large quantities, these mint varieties could cause digestive upset,  nausea, and vomiting in dogs. Mint oil is also toxic to dogs and could cause skin irritation and allergic reaction in sensitive dogs.

If you suspect your dog has eaten mint in excess, it may be best to call your vet.

If you choose to feed fresh spearmint leaves to your dog, do it in moderation. You can also grind some mint and add it to your dog’s baked treats to freshen up its breath.

To ensure your pet will live a long and healthy life, it is always a good idea to invest in pet health insurance. Preparing for the unexpected guarantees money is never an issue in keeping you pup healthy.