Herbs · updated 2026-09-12
Can dogs eat mint?
Fresh mint leaves in tiny amounts; never mint sweets or gum.
Why
A leaf or two of fresh garden mint is harmless and appears in some dog breath treats. Pennyroyal (a mint relative) is toxic, and mint sweets and chewing gum often contain xylitol.
How to serve it
A leaf, occasionally. Skip all processed mint products.
If they eat too much
Vomiting or diarrhoea from many leaves; xylitol emergency from sweets.
How much mint for my dog?
A daily maximum for a healthy adult dog, kept inside the 10% treat rule. Enter body weight.
Up to 2 g a day — a pea-sized piece · fresh leaf.
Treats of all kinds should stay under about 10% of daily calories. Puppies, kittens, seniors and pets with a medical condition: ask your vet first.
And for cats?
Avoid. Skip — mint essential oils irritate cats. Can cats eat mint? →
Related foods for dogs
- CatnipSafe
- BananasIn moderation
- BreadIn moderation
- BroccoliIn moderation
- CheeseIn moderation
- CoconutIn moderation
See the whole list: Can dogs eat…? · printable fridge chart
This guide is general information for healthy adult dogs, based on published veterinary guidance (ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline, AKC, VCA). It is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your dog's weight, age and medical history. If you are unsure, ask them before sharing any human food.