Is parsley safe for dogs?

Curly and flat-leaf parsley are widely used in dog treats marketed for fresh breath. A small sprinkle of chopped leaves is fine. For a 10 kg (22 lb) dog, about a teaspoon of fresh chopped parsley is plenty.

Parsley does not fix bad breath caused by dental disease, which is the most common reason dogs have smelly mouths.

Parsley contains furanocoumarins, which in high amounts can cause photosensitivity, making skin more likely to redden or burn in sunlight. Pet poison references list parsley as a concern in large quantities for this reason. A pinch in food is a very different dose from a dog eating a whole bunch from the garden.

Commercial breath treats for dogs often include parsley alongside mint and charcoal. These are formulated with sensible amounts and are fine within the feeding guide on the packet. They can make breath smell a little fresher for a while, but they do not remove tartar or treat gum disease, which needs brushing and dental checks.

Spring parsley (Cymopterus watsonii) is a wild plant in parts of North America and is toxic to animals. It is not the herb you buy. Several other wild plants in the carrot family, such as hemlock and hemlock water dropwort, look like parsley and are extremely dangerous. Only give parsley you have bought or grown yourself.

Some sources advise against giving parsley in larger amounts to pregnant dogs. Since it adds nothing essential, it is simplest to leave it out during pregnancy and ask your vet about any herbs.