The short answer is yes, dogs can eat cilantro. In the US, “coriander” refers to the seeds of the plant, while the leaves and stems are called “cilantro.” Both parts of the plant are safe for dogs to eat, as well as the coriander spice form. This herb is used in many varieties of cuisine across the world, and you can let your pup in on the action, too.
However, as with all human foods, you must consult your veterinarian before feeding your dog any new dietary additions. Here’s what you should know about feeding coriander to dogs.
Why is cilantro good for dogs?
Cilantro is known to help with stomach upset and nausea. If your doggo tends to get motion sick in the car, feeding them cilantro a couple of hours before the ride may help ease their tummy.
The leaves of the plant, also known as cilantro, are extremely high in vitamin K, which aids in your dog’s ability to clot blood. They also contain folate, or vitamin B9, an essential vitamin in cell growth and function.
As a spice, coriander contains high amounts of dietary fiber, similar to fennel seeds. This aids your pup’s digestion.
Regardless of whether you feed your pup coriander seeds or cilantro leaves, this plant is highly nutritious.
How can I safely give coriander to my dog?
All parts of the coriander plant are safe for dogs to eat, but the optimal benefits are found in the seeds and leaves, or cilantro.
You can sprinkle cilantro leaves on your dog’s food as a tasty garnish. You can also throw them in a food processor and mix them with water in an ice cube tray to make doggy cilantro pops. Just be sure to thoroughly wash the leaves before giving them to your pup.
As for the coriander seeds, you should not give these to your dog whole. If you opt to give your dog the seeds, they need to be ground into a fine powder. This sounds difficult, but luckily, ground coriander can be found in almost every food store.
You can sprinkle ground coriander onto your pup’s food or use it in homemade doggy treats. Coriander is a very versatile, dog-safe food!
