Coriander, botanically known as Coriandrum sativum or as cilantro, dhania, Mexican parsley, or Chinese parsley is an annual culinary herb native to South Asia and southern Europe to northern parts of Africa.
Its leaves are used in various food including stews, soups, fried foods, in salads including Mexican pasta and Brazilian salsa, and so on.
On the other hand, cilantro seeds are used in sausages, soups, ratatouille, stews, pickles, curries, curry powder, and so on. In some places, its roots are also used as a spice.
Is cilantro bad for dogs or not?
No. Cilantro is not bad for dogs, i.e., dogs can eat cilantro. It is not poisonous or toxic not only to these pets but also to cats and horses.
Nutritionally, cilantro leaves are quite nutritive. They have thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, vitamin B6, folate as well as vitamin A, C, E, and K. Additionally, they have minerals, carbohydrates including dietary fibers.
Unlike cats which are strict carnivores, dogs are considered as omnivores and may benefit more from the various nutrients this herb has including fiber but not to a large extent.
Therefore, you can give your pooch a small as a treat and not as a meal replacement. According to Barking Royalty, some of the benefits of coriander to dogs include the following:
- Owing to its antimicrobial and antifungal activities, it can help in keeping infection by these pathogens at bay. As your dog eats it, it will help in fighting any oral infections and improve your canine friend’s breath.
- It has various nutrients including antioxidants to neutralize free radicals, vitamin A for healthy skin and vision, and vitamin K to help in blood clotting among other roles.
- Like it does to humans, it can help in dealing with digestion problems, gas, bloating as well as easy stomach upsets.
These are some of the benefits that your dog may benefit from cilantro. However, there are no definitive studies to prove the efficacy of this culinary herb.
Feeding your dog cilantro
When feeding them, sprinkle a pinch of ground coriander or chopped fresh leaves on their foods. Ground seeds and coriander roots are also safe to these pets.
Besides sprinkling this herb on their food, you can also use it as an ingredient to homemade treats or foods.
However, do not give them human foods that have this herb together with other toxic ingredients especially some preservatives, chives, onions, garlic, leek, and so on.
Although it is safe, do not overfeed it to your dog. Excessive amount may lead to stomach upsets since these pets cannot handle a large volume of fibrous plant materials. This can cause mild tummy upsets, diarrhea, gas, bloating, and so on.
Secondly, watch for any signs of allergies. Some pooches may be allergic. Symptoms such as diarrhea, vomiting, swollen face or body, itchiness, and so on will indicate the possibility of an allergic reaction.
Thirdly, while some dogs may love this herb, others may even refuse to eat their food if it is added. Test with a small amount to see if they like it.
Finally, introduce coriander slowly over a period of a week beginning with a very tiny amount as you observe for any signs of stomach upset or allergic reactions. If none is noted, you can increase the amount gradually.
Conclusion
Coriander is not bad for dogs. Therefore, these pets can eat it since it is not toxic or poisonous. Mix a small amount with their portion of high-quality commercial dog food. However, limit the amount of any herb or fibrous plants given to this pet.