Herbs & Spices

Sulfur-containing compounds in Allium plants damage red blood cells and can cause haemolytic anaemia; dogs can be affected too, and some breeds (e.g. Akita, Shiba Inu) are more sensitive.

Onion contains organosulfur compounds such as n-propyl disulfide that oxidise red blood cells and form Heinz bodies, causing haemolytic anaemia; raw, cooked, dehydrated and powdered forms are all risky, and signs may appear days after eating.

Scallions contain the same organosulfur compounds as onion, and both the white base and the green tops are risky; repeated small amounts can accumulate and cause anaemia, with a higher risk for small pets.

Chives contain organosulfur compounds such as n-propyl disulfide that oxidise red blood cells and form Heinz bodies, causing haemolytic anaemia - the same mechanism as onion and garlic.

Cilantro is almost calorie-free with only traces of vitamins A, C and K, so its only job is adding a little aroma to the bowl.

Ginger is not highly poisonous, but **large or concentrated amounts irritate the gut**, causing vomiting, pain and loose stools; **ginger candy, tea and drinks are sugary and may contain honey**, so they do not suit dogs.

Black pepper is not highly poisonous, but **piperine irritates the mouth and gut**, causing drooling, vomiting, pain and loose stools; **whole peppercorns can choke**, and **piperine supplements are not food for pets**.

Cinnamon is not highly poisonous, but **a large amount irritates the mouth and gut**, and its cinnamaldehyde causes burning, vomiting and pain; **dry powder is easily inhaled**; **cinnamon oil and cinnamaldehyde supplements are far riskier concentrates**.

**Peppermint oil and mints are the real hazard**, not a leaf or two: menthol is irritating and can be toxic, and mints or gum often hold xylitol, which causes low blood sugar and liver injury. Dogs with reflux, seizures or liver disease should skip mint.

Basil is almost calorie-free with only traces of vitamins and minerals, so its only job is to add a fresh aroma that makes the bowl more interesting.

Parsley is very low in calories and offers only traces of vitamins C and K plus a little mineral content, so its job is adding a fresh herbal aroma.

Rosemary is almost calorie-free with only traces of vitamins and minerals, so its job is adding a pine-like aroma that makes the bowl more interesting.

Thyme is almost calorie-free with only traces of vitamins and minerals, so its job is adding a fresh herbal aroma to the bowl.

**Turmeric supplements, with concentrated curcumin and often black pepper extract, are not food**: they interact with many drugs and may stress the gut and liver, while **a lot of the powder upsets the stomach too**, so keep it to seasoning amounts.