Mint may seem like a soothing, safe herb for humans, but is spearmint safe for dogs too? Many owners wonder if sharing products containing mint with their pup could cause harm. Certain types of mint are perfectly fine in moderation, while others carry risks.
Understanding how different mints affect dogs will help you make good choices about what to share or avoid when it comes to minty treats.
Is Spearmint Harmful to Dogs?
The spearmint typically used for flavoring foods, gum, and dental products is generally safe for dogs to consume in small amounts. Spearmint contains minimal concentrations of the compounds that make some mints dangerous.
Spearmint leaves and extract contain:
- Menthol – Provides a cooling, soothing effect
- Limonene – Gives spearmint its distinctive aroma
- Eugenol – Has anesthetic properties to reduce pain
These compounds are not toxic to dogs when ingested in typical culinary or dental care quantities. Spearmint-flavored toothpastes, gum, and foods are fine for sharing occasionally with your dog.
Dangers of Peppermint for Dogs
In contrast to spearmint, peppermint contains significantly higher levels of menthol and other volatile compounds that make it inappropriate for dog consumption.
Peppermint oil, leaves, and candy contain menthol and pulegone levels up to 10 times higher than spearmint. Ingesting these compounds puts dogs at risk for:
- Gastrointestinal issues – Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain
- Muscle tremors – Shaking, twitching, coordination issues
- Respiratory distress – Coughing, choking, breathing difficulty
- Damage to mucous membranes – Oral blistering, lesions
Even small amounts of peppermint can trigger these harmful effects in dogs. It’s important to avoid products using peppermint or natural peppermint oil around your pup.
Is Catmint Safe for Dogs?
Catmint, also known as catnip, is a common garden plant that appeals to cats but typically does not interest dogs. However, some dogs enjoy chewing on the aromatic catmint leaves.
The nepetalactone compound in catnip that causes euphoric effects in cats tends to have minimal effects on dogs. But catmint does contain essential oils that can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in some dogs if ingested in very large amounts.
Overall, most dogs will not have adverse effects from occasional exposure to catmint. But it’s best to discourage dogs from chewing or eating large quantities of the fresh leaves. Dried catmint poses less risk and may be used sparingly in some herbal dog treat recipes. Monitor your dog closely the first time providing catmint to ensure no abnormal reaction.
Mint Risks for Puppies
While spearmint and catmint are relatively safe for adult dogs, it’s best to avoid providing any mint products to puppies under 12 weeks old.
Young puppies are more susceptible to:
- Hypothermia – Mint may lower body temperature.
- Respiratory issues – Breathing can be suppressed.
- Gastrointestinal effects – Diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy.
Never give peppermint or natural mint oils to puppies. Introduce spearmint or catmint gradually after 12 weeks, and discontinue use at the first sign of any reaction. The risks outweigh any minimal benefits for young puppies.
Oral Care Products
Many pet oral care products contain spearmint or peppermint oil to provide fresh breath. Use caution when selecting chewing gums, sprays, water additives, or toothpastes.
Avoid xylitol – This common sugar-free sweetener used in gums is highly toxic to dogs.
Monitor use – Sprays and additives often contain stronger mint oil concentrations, so monitor your dog closely when first using to watch for reactions.
Use dog-specific products – Look for an oral care product formulated specifically for dogs, with appropriate mint oil levels and a pet-safe seal.
Talk to your vet if you have questions about a particular oral care product. Never use any product containing xylitol or high peppermint concentrations.
Signs of a Reaction
Most dogs will show no adverse effects from minimal ingestion of spearmint or catmint. But look for these signs of possible reaction:
- Excessive drooling or vomiting
- Diarrhea or difficulty defecating
- Loss of coordination, trembling, seizures
- Pale gums, low body temperature
- Coughing, gagging or difficulty breathing
- Oral blisters or irritations
Discontinue mint product use immediately and contact your vet if any reaction signs appear. Also report signs of toxicity to the product manufacturer.
Mint Precautions
Here are some key precautions when giving mint products to dogs:
- Avoid use in puppies under 12 weeks old
- Never use peppermint products or pure essential oils
- Monitor closely the first time providing any new product
- Only use small amounts of spearmint or catmint
- Don’t allow dogs to chew or eat mint plants directly
- Keep products with xylitol out of reach from dogs
With careful selection and monitoring, spearmint can be an occasional treat for your dog. But skip the mint when it comes to your pup for optimal safety and health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can dogs have mint toothpaste?
Yes, but it must be formulated for dogs, contain spearmint not peppermint, and be free of xylitol. Monitor initially for any GI upset or reaction.
What happens if a dog eats a breath mint?
One regular mint likely won’t harm a dog. But sugar-free mints may contain xylitol, which is highly toxic. Call your vet if they ingest multiple mints.
Is it OK to add mint to my dog’s water?
No, avoid adding essential oils, peppermint extract, or mint sprigs to your dog’s drinking water due to toxicity risks if ingested directly.
Can I put mint essential oil on my dog? No, never apply concentrated mint oil directly to your dog’s coat or skin as it can be rapidly absorbed and cause toxic effects.
Is mint dangerous to dogs when diffused? Inhaling small amounts of spearmint essential oil mist is unlikely to harm dogs. But avoid diffusing stronger peppermint oil around pets. Monitor for any breathing issues.
