Can Dogs Eat Cardamom? 8 Useful Hints To Keep Your Pet Safe
Your Guide To: Can Dogs Eat Cardamom?
Fact checked and reviewed by:
Dr. Joseph Menicucci, DVM, MBA
All around the world, you’ll find cardamom in different pastries and kitchen cupboards. For ages, this spice has been used in herbal treatments and cooking Asian foods.
The reason why this ingredient is very popular in different households needs to be understood. However, does the popularity of this flavorful spice guarantee the safety of your dog?
Let’s find out in this article.
Can Dogs Eat Cardamom?
Yes, dogs can eat cardamom.
Cardamom is one of those spices that is non-toxic and safe for dogs. However, with many foods that are safe for dogs, this spice must be taken in moderation.
Taking in large quantities of cardamom is unhealthy for your dog, as it could cause digestive issues and stomach problems. Cardamom is specifically harmful to pregnant dogs because it can cause a miscarriage*.
You can mix cardamom in your dog’s usual food, but if taken in large amounts, it can affect the bowel movements of your dog.
Is Cardamom Safe For Dogs?
In small quantities, cardamom is considered to be safe for dog consumption.
The aroma and flavor of cardamom are strong, warm, slightly spicy, and very aromatic. Cardamom contains several components that are considered to be of health benefit to a dog, such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
You should, however, note that this spice should be given in moderation, as your dog might not be able to tolerate high levels of it because of a sensitive stomach. Excessive intake of cardamom can also result in an upset stomach, vomiting, or diarrhea.
Is Cardamom Toxic To Dogs?
Cardamom is not inherently toxic to dogs.
Unlike some other spices, cardamom doesn’t contain dangerous ingredients that can cause harm to your dog. Little amounts of cardamom given to dogs, especially non-pregnant dogs, won’t cause any harm, but be careful not to overfeed your dog with it.
Before feeding cardamom to dogs on medication, you should get the consent of your veterinarian, as there are concerns about cardamom messing with the effects of drugs.
Cardamom can interfere with the effectiveness of antibiotics and, when taken in high amounts, can have a blood-thinning effect. Therefore, dogs on medication should not be given cardamom.
Can Dogs Eat Cardamom Seeds?
Feeding a dog’s cardamom seeds isn’t advisable.
You should note that the processed cardamom is different from the seed. The seed contains some ingredients and chemicals that can obstruct the normal digestive flow of your dog. This can lead to severe illnesses, which include gastrointestinal issues, an upset stomach, vomiting, lethargy, or diarrhea.
Digesting cardamom seeds is a major concern for dogs, as they are tiny, and breaking down this seed into smaller elements can be difficult. The lack of ability to break down this seed can cause obstruction and choking as they are unable to swallow it whole.
Also, dogs can be allergic to certain elements and chemicals contained in cardamom seeds.
What Health Benefits Does Cardamom Have For Your Dog?
Surprisingly, cardamom has several health benefits.
Cardamom contains vitamins and minerals that are beneficial to dogs and has been shown to reduce blood pressure and improve antioxidant status*. It also helps to increase gut health and contains anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial elements, which are good for the heart.
The antioxidants in cardamom help fight illnesses and combat harmful radicals. Another great thing cardamom does is that it pays extra attention to your dog’s skin by fighting fungal infections*.
Cardamom also helps your dog’s digestive health, as it can help to relieve a hungry stomach, stop bloating, and aid better digestion.
Can Dogs Eat Cardamom? What’s The Best Way To Serve Them?
Always serve it in moderation. Never succumb to the temptation of adding a little extra cardamom to your dog’s diet.
Until you can decipher your dog’s tolerance to cardamom, it is best to serve it in bits*. Also, as a result of the sharp smell that dogs have, it is best to sprinkle just a little bit, as the strong scent can irritate your dog.
You can also serve your dog cardamom by adding the oil to its water or food*. You can also get cardamom extract and add it while making homemade treats for your dog.
Can Dogs Eat Cardamom? How Much Should I Give My Dog?
While there isn’t a straightforward answer to this because of the uniqueness of each dog, it is best to serve it in small portions to monitor your dog’s reaction.
Several dogs can be sensitive to the strong scent of cardamom, which might make them uneasy. Also, you might never know how sensitive your dog’s stomach is to this spice.
Before introducing any new thing to your dog’s diet, make sure to consult your veterinarian, as he or she is in the best position to know the specific food and health needs of your dog.
Can Puppies Eat Cardamom?
Puppies should not eat cardamom
Generally, puppies are more vulnerable to new foods than adult dogs. While cardamom is not toxic to puppies, it’s better to steer clear of it because their digestive systems are still developing and it will be very risky to feed it to them.
Puppies’ diets are different and more specific than those of adult dogs; therefore, several things will not sit well with their systems. As a dog owner, you should be very careful about leaving cardamom or other things lying on the ground because, while exploring, your puppy can be drawn to them and consume them.
This spice may irritate a puppy’s stomach, thereby causing digestive and intestinal issues.
Puppies are new babies, and extra attention should be paid to them because everything in their body system is in its growing and development stages.
Looking For Some Healthy, Homemade Dog Food Recipe Inspiration?
So, Can Dogs Eat Cardamom? What’s The Verdict?
In conclusion, this debate on whether dogs can eat cardamom is worthy of careful consideration. While cardamom has multiple health benefits and isn’t toxic to dogs, feeding it in moderation is the key to ensuring the safety and health of our dogs.
Cardamom is made up of antioxidants that help in better digestion, which means a better life for our pets. Just as dog owners will be advised to take it slowly and carefully when introducing new foods to their dog’s diet, the same thing applies to cardamom.
Pregnant dogs and gods on medication should steer clear of cardamom, as it might only worsen their systems. The adaptation levels of dogs are different; while some are strong, others are weaker and can have allergic reactions to cardamom.
All in all, the safety of our dogs is our ultimate business, and we’ll make sure it is the best. If you’re looking for more nutritional advice for your pet, The American Canine Club is a great starting point for all things in canine health.
