Shopping Basket
Can Dogs Eat Tarragon Is Tarragon Safe For Dogs

Can Dogs Eat Tarragon? Is Tarragon Safe For Dogs?

As we explore the vast realm of culinary herbs, we frequently encounter the presence of tarragon. With its anise-like fragrance and unique taste, this herb supplies a wonderful enhancement to an array of recipes. Still, as we start incorporating tarragon into our creative cooking efforts, the attention our dogs pay to the herb leaves us pondering a bit. “Can dogs eat tarragon?” we might find ourselves asking.

It is interesting to note that dogs, despite their many genetic and biological differences from humans, are not affected by the chemistry of tarragon the way some other plants affect them, such as foxglove. Sure, foxglove and hounds aren’t “biological cousins,” but foxglove still affects dogs the way it affects people. By that same token, tarragon and humans get along just fine, from a chemistry standpoint. Dog people have offered their dogs the taste of tarragon with no ill effects, and some people have even gone so far as to use tarragon in treats they’ve made for their dogs. And for the icing on the “not toxic to dogs” cake, tarragon is an ingredient in some commercial dog foods.

Take into account that the herb is highly flavorful. Even though we might think its flavor is somewhat weak, our taste buds aren’t as discerning as those of a dog. We know food can certainly make a dog drool, but this herb, with its powerful presence, may just spell digestive revolt if you use too much of it.

Another worry is how the tarragon is prepared or presented in the food. Fresh tarragon in small quantities might not be a big problem. But a lot of dishes with tarragon could also contain ingredients, in particular garlic and onions, that are not simply nutritious for dogs but potentially very harmful—maybe even deadly—should they eat a significant amount.

Moreover, it is crucial never to administer tarragon essential oil to dogs. One must exercise caution when it comes to the use of any highly concentrated oil—eucalyptus, sweet birch, or tarragon, for example. Some say a drop of a certain essential oil can have the impact of nearly 30 whole leaves. To that, one can only add one more superlative thing about dogs: They are a thousandfold more sensitive to most scents than are we.

Furthermore, tarragon doesn’t offer any substantial nutritional advantages to dogs. Canine nutrition calls for a delicate mix of proteins and carbohydrates, as well as certain vitamins and minerals. To keep our dogs in the best health, we follow the advice of the National Research Council of the National Academies, which issued nutrient guidelines for canines in 2006. Neither those guidelines nor any others I’ve found mention tarragon as a suitable dog food additive.

It is generally not a good idea to feed your dog tarragon. Even if your dog eats some tarragon accidentally and doesn’t experience any immediate discomfort, still reach out to a vet for expert advice.

Many different kinds of herbs and vegetables can be used to spice up the diets of dogs, and still play it safe. Take parsley, for example. It is not only safe for dogs to eat but can also work to freshen up their breath at the same time.

Ultimately, although tarragon might not hurt dogs, its concentrated taste and typical cooking practices may make it less-than-optimal for their diets. As attentive pet owners, we ought to center our concerns around the provision of a well-rounded, healthful mix of foods for our four-legged friends.