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Can Dogs Eat Cilantro? | Is Cilantro Bad for Dogs?

is cilantro bad for dogs

Cilantro can be used to spice up many household foods such as salsa, pasta, rice, or meats.  If you’re like me, you’d add cilantro to almost anything!  While generally we don’t associate herbs with something that we would share with our dog, what about cilantro?  Can dogs eat cilantro?  Or, is cilantro bad for dogs? The answer might shock you! 

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Can Dogs Eat Cilantro? (The Short Answer)

Yes, dogs can eat cilantro!  Cilantro offers a new, flavorful taste in addition to essential vitamins and minerals.  As a herb, it contains low calories, fat, cholesterol, and sugar.  Unlike many new tastes for your pets, cilantro doesn’t add unnecessary calories that make introducing new foods detrimental to your dog’s health. It’s even an ingredient in one of our homemade frozen dog treats recipes!

It’s important to remember, that even with the best of intentions, accidents happen and dogs can easily eat things they shouldn’t.  Unfortunately, even if those accidents aren’t fatal, they can result in huge, unexpected veterinary expenses.  That’s why we recommend all responsible dog owners get a free, online pet insurance quote from Healthy Paws.

Is Cilantro Good For Dogs?

Yes!  Cilantro is good for dogs.  It contains an abundance of vitamins and minerals.  It has also been known to help ease digestive problems! 

Cilantro contains vitamin A and vitamin C. These are good for growth, immune function, reducing inflammation, and slowing cognitive aging.  It also includes some vitamin E which helps develop strong and healthy muscles. 

Some minerals that are in abundance in cilantro include iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus and more!  Iron is essential for the formation of blood cells and hemoglobin which transports nutrients throughout your dogs body.  The magnesium is important in a lot of daily functions.  Magnesium helps with movement of muscles, and muscle regeneration.  Potassium is important for regulating nerve impulses throughout the body.  Last but not least, phosphorus helps maintain healthy bones. 

In addition to the vitamins and minerals, cilantro has been shown to offer other benefits.  Studies have shown that cilantro offers some anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties which reduces your dog’s risk of infection.  It also can be used as an all-natural toothpaste which can help freshen that not-so-appealing puppy breath!  It also is a great source of anti-oxidants which helps get rid of free radicals. 

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Is Cilantro Bad for Dogs?

We’ve already answered the question, “can dogs eat cilantro?” Now, let’s learn about the dangers of feeding your dog this food! Is cilantro bad for dogs?

There aren’t many dangers associated with giving your dog cilantro, but here are a few things to keep in mind. 

Eating too much cilantro may become dangerous.  Like most human foods that we give our dogs—their stomachs can only handle small quantities.  Remember, if you have a smaller dog that means smaller portions as well.  Not only is eating too much bad, but eating cilantro too fast can cause your pup to vomit.  Watch them while they eat to ensure they’re not gobbling it down too fast. 

The stems should be removed before consumption.  The stems are lengthy and can potentially pose a choking hazard.  While it may seem a little unlikely, it’s better to be safe than sorry and either cut them into small pieces or not feed them to your dog at all. 

Another concern is that you are serving the cilantro with foods that aren’t safe for dogs.  Make sure to research other foods as well before letting your pup indulge.  While uncommon, it’s not unheard of that dogs could have an allergy to cilantro.  This can appear as a rash, an upset stomach leading to vomiting or diarrhea, or swelling of the face or body.  Be aware of these signs and call your vet immediately if you notice any. 

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Other Varieties & Related Foods:

Now that we’ve answered the question, “can dogs have cilantro?” let’s learn about these other related foods!

Can Dogs Eat Fresh Cilantro?

Yes, your pup can eat fresh cilantro!  Fresh cilantro is a healthy addition to your pet’s meals.  With added vitamins and minerals and few additional calories, it can spruce up a plain bowl of kibble! 

Can Dogs Eat Dried Cilantro?

Yes, pups can eat dried cilantro.  Dried cilantro is simply cilantro that has been heated up and dried out.  Heat takes a lot of the flavor and scent out of cilantro and, because dog’s taste palates are different than humans, it may provide a more mild taste that might be better for our four-legged friends, especially those with a sensitive stomach. 

Is Coriander Safe For Your Pup?

Yes, you can feed your dog coriander!  Coriander is very similar to cilantro, except coriander refers only to what is derived from the plant seed, and cilantro refers to the herbaceous, leafy part.  They have similar tastes and are interchangeable.  Both cilantro and coriander are non-toxic to dogs. 

Can Dogs Eat Rice With Cilantro? / Can Dogs Eat Cilantro Lime Rice?

Yes and no.  Your pup can eat rice with a fresh cilantro seasoning.  However, they can NOT eat cilantro lime rice.  Plain, white, cooked rice with a fresh cilantro garnish can be eaten by pups and may even help calm an upset stomach.  However, many cilantro lime rices, whether prepackaged or freshly prepped, contain lime juice, lime zest, or both.  Dogs should never eat limes.  To find out more and learn why, read our article, “Can Dogs Eat Limes?

In Conclusion: Can Dogs Have Cilantro?

Yes, you can spice up your pup’s next meal with this versatile herb!  Cilantro contains essential vitamins and minerals which can boost multiple aspects of your dogs health from immune function, to the digestive system, to maintaining strong bones!  Cilantro can be sprinkled atop your pup’s usual kibble dinner, eaten plain, or used to add flavor to another human food you’re letting them try.  

Want to Learn More?

Check out these related articles from our “Read Before You Feed” series for more advice on safe foods for dogs!

Disclaimer: We are not veterinarians and this article should not be taken as medical or veterinary advice.  If you have any questions about your pet’s health or dietary needs, please contact your local veterinarian.