Can Dogs Have Peppermints?

Peppermint is found in teas, essential oils, extracts, food, and more…

In fact, many people love peppermint for it’s taste and potential medicinal benefits.

But is it safe for dogs?

In this guide, you’ll find the answers you’re looking for.

Can Dogs Have Peppermints?

Simply put: No.

Many mint-based plants are toxic to dogs, according to the ASPCA.

What’s more, many peppermint-flavored products contain additives that are bad for your dog. For example, they may contain the artificial sweetener xylitol, which is particularly hazardous for your dog’s health.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Yes. It’s possible it could cause digestive issues, along with vomiting and diarrhea (especially if it’s eaten in large quantities.)

Are There Any Benefits?

Some owners may give their dog a few peppermint leaves as a breath freshener, but truthfully, there are better alternatives out there without the risk of upsetting your dog’s stomach.

There are also peppermint flea sprays (or homemade solutions using peppermint oil.) But again, there are better alternatives for flea prevention as well.

Is It Safe for Dogs To Eat Peppermint Candy?

Peppermint candy is very bad for a dog.

Many candies contain artificial sweeteners like xylitol which are highly toxic. (It can even prove fatal.)

They also contain a lot of sugar and other additives.

Even if your dog seems interested in eating the peppermint candy, it’s best to keep it away from them.

What Does Peppermint Oil Do To Dogs?

While some people are fans of essential oils, it’s best not to give them to your dog. The market is largely unregulated, and there’s little proof to show they work.

There are holistic veterinarians who may recommend it, but again, there isn’t any scientific evidence to support it.

Peppermint oil for dogs is often marketed as a flea repellent, but there are better solutions out there (and without the risks.)

Can Dogs Have Peppermint Extract?

Peppermint extract is sometimes seen as a solution for a dog’s bad breath.

But too much peppermint extract is likely to cause negative effects… and again… there are better solutions out there.

Can Dogs Have Peppermint Tea?

Dogs rarely like the taste of peppermint, so they aren’t likely to be interested in peppermint tea.

But considering the toxicity risks, it isn’t a good idea to encourage them to drink peppermint tea either. A few drops are unlikely to cause much harm, but you shouldn’t serve peppermint tea for your dog.

Additionally, products containing caffeine are very toxic to dogs.

Can Dogs Have Peppermint Leaves?

A few leaves are unlikely to cause much harm, but it shouldn’t be encouraged.

Some owners might try to give their dog a few peppermint leaves to chew on (especially if they have breath issues.) But there are better alternatives that give results without the toxicity risks.

Can Dogs Have Peppermint Ice Cream?

It’s not a good idea.

As we’ve seen, peppermint isn’t very good for dogs. And ice cream often comes with sweeteners that are dangerous for dogs (such as xylitol.)

They also contain too much lactose, which is likely to cause digestive upset. Many dogs are lactose intolerant and shouldn’t eat ice cream.

What Should I Do If My Dog Eats Peppermint?

A very small amount of peppermint shouldn’t be too much cause for alarm. However, if your dog has eaten an excessive amount, they could experience negative effects.

Common symptoms of mint poisoning are: