Can dogs eat basil?

Sweet basil, Thai basil and holy basil are not considered toxic to dogs. A few leaves, chopped and mixed into a meal, add aroma that some dogs enjoy. Very large amounts of any leafy herb can upset the stomach, so a pinch is enough.

Dried basil is more concentrated; use a very small sprinkle if at all.

Classic pesto blends basil with garlic, parmesan, pine nuts and olive oil. The garlic makes it unsuitable, and the cheese and oil add a lot of fat and salt. Tomato and basil sauces usually contain garlic and onion too. A dog that licks a pesto jar clean has eaten a meaningful amount of garlic.

Chop a few basil leaves with a little plain cooked courgette or cucumber and a teaspoon of water. This gives your dog the scent of the herb without any of the garlic, cheese or oil in pesto. Use it fresh the same day, as chopped basil quickly turns dark and loses its aroma.

Basil plants on windowsills and patios are a common target for puppies. Chewing the plant is not dangerous, but check that the pot has not been treated with pesticides or plant feed, and that no soil or slug pellets are within reach.

Basil essential oil is highly concentrated and should never be applied to a dog or used in a diffuser in a small room with a dog. Many essential oils irritate a dog's skin and airways. Fresh leaves in food are a different thing entirely.