Introduction

Did you know your garden can be more than just a pretty space? It can actually be a source of wellness for your dog too! By growing a few specific herbs and greens, you can naturally support your dog’s health, all while creating a fun, interactive area for them to sniff and explore.

Why Bother Including Herbs and Greens?

Our dogs just love to sniff, and sometimes nibble or roll in, different kinds of plants, don't they? The great news is that many common herbs and greens are not only perfectly safe for dogs, but they can also provide some direct health benefits. We're talking things like fresher breath, improved digestion, and even a bit of immune support! Plus, these kinds of plants are generally quite easy to grow, whether you have garden beds, pots, or even just a sunny window box.

Top Health-Boosting Plants for Your Dog

Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)

Benefits: This fragrant herb is an antioxidant, can aid digestion, may help repel fleas, and gives the immune system a little boost.

How to use: You can let your dog simply sniff or brush past rosemary in the garden. With your vet’s okay, you could also add a tiny pinch of fresh leaves to their food.

Safety tip: It's best to avoid rosemary for dogs with epilepsy, and always introduce any new herb very slowly.

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)

Benefits: Thyme has antimicrobial properties, can act as a digestive aid, and is rich in lovely antioxidants and vitamins.

How to use: Grow it as a groundcover or in pots, and let your dog explore and sniff it. Small amounts can also be added to their food.

Safety tip: Make sure you’re using common garden thyme, as Spanish thyme is toxic to dogs.

Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

Benefits: Basil is known for being anti-inflammatory and an antioxidant. It can also help with stress and support good digestion.

How to use: Plant it in a sunny spot in your garden, and you can snip a leaf or

two as an occasional treat for your dog.

Curly Parsley (Petroselinum crispum var. crispum)

Benefits: Great for helping to freshen breath! It also supports urinary health and is packed with vitamins.

How to use: You can sprinkle a little bit of chopped curly parsley (not the flat-leaf variety) on their food now and then.

Safety tip: Only use curly-leaf parsley. It's best to avoid giving parsley to dogs who are pregnant or have kidney issues.

Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

Benefits: These common "weeds" are actually powerhouses! They support liver and kidney function, provide a good range of vitamins and minerals, and can act as a gentle prebiotic for gut health.

How to use: Let your dog nibble on a leaf or a flower from a patch you know is free from pesticides. You can also add a tiny bit to their meal.

Safety tip: Critically important: always ensure any dandelions your dog ingests haven’t been sprayed with chemicals. Feed them in moderation.

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Benefits: Fennel can help ease digestion, calm upset tummies, and provides a nice dose of vitamins.

How to use: Grow fennel for its feathery, aromatic leaves and let your dog have a sniff or a light graze if they seem interested.

Wheatgrass, Oat Grass, and Barley Grass

Benefits: These grasses are absolutely packed with vitamins, minerals, and fibre. They can help with digestion and even freshen breath.

How to use: Grow them in trays or pots specifically for your dog to graze on. This is especially good if your dog is one of those who enjoys munching on grass.

How to Safely Introduce Herbs and Greens to Your Dog

Start really small. Offer just tiny amounts at first and keep a close eye out for any signs of tummy upsets or allergies.

If your dog is on any medication or has ongoing health concerns, it's always best to consult your vet before introducing new herbs.

Only ever use plants that you know are pesticide-free.

And remember, never offer herbs as a replacement for their proper, balanced nutrition. Think of these as healthy little extras!

Bonus: Good for the Bees, Too!

Here’s another lovely benefit: many of these herbs are fantastic for attracting pollinators! This helps bees and butterflies thrive in your garden, which is another wonderful way that Bee More Dog gardens can support the bigger ecological picture.

Conclusion

With just a few carefully chosen pots or a small dedicated patch in your garden, you can easily grow a "health-boosting patch" specifically for your dog. It’s such a natural and fun way to support their overall wellbeing – and let’s be honest, it’s a great excuse for both of you to spend more quality time together outdoors!

Next up in our series, we’ll be exploring how to create distinct calming and energising zones within your dog garden. Stay tuned!