Can dogs eat Perilla Leaves? Yes, Dogs can eat perilla leaves in moderation. Whenever you add a new food to your dog’s diet, it is good to give it in small amounts and then notice their reaction.
If your dog does not show any adverse reactions, then it can be good to feed perilla leaves to your dog regularly. You need to know that too much eating of perilla leaves can lead to an upset stomach, so it’s good not to overdo it.
What are the Perilla Leaves Exactly?
Perilla leaves, also known as shiso or Japanese basil, are a type of edible herb that is native to Japan and parts of China. They have a slightly sweet taste and have a fragrance like mint or anise.
Unlike its cousin the green leafy plant called shiso, perilla leaves are bright red with a glossy texture. This makes them visually pleasing when added to salads, sandwiches, and other dishes.
The leaves contain high amounts of certain antioxidants, such as beta-carotene and vitamins C & E which offer many health benefits for your pup.
Benefits of Feeding Perilla Leaves to Your Dog
Here are some benefits to consider:
1. Rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and fight free radical damage.
2. Contains a high amount of vitamins A and C, as well as calcium and iron.
3. Good source of dietary fiber for aiding digestion.
4. Supports healthy skin and coats the essential fatty acids found in perilla leaves.
5. Low-calorie food with minimal fat content making it beneficial for weight loss or weight management when fed to your dog in moderation.
6. Rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, two powerful antioxidants that help protect the eyes and maintain vision health
7. These can help reduce bad breath for dogs due to their strong minty taste
8. A natural way to prevent or reduce allergies is perilla leaves are anti-inflammatory
9. Provides a healthy source of omega-3 fatty acids which is essential for heart health, bone development, and joint mobility
Risks Associated with Feeding Perilla Leaves to Your Dog
While there are many benefits to feeding your pup perilla leaves, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with this herb.
If your dog eats too many of these leaves, it may experience an upset stomach due to the high levels of antioxidants found in the herb.
Also, if your pup has a sensitivity or allergy to any type of plant, it’s best to avoid feeding them perilla leaves as this could cause a reaction.
Perilla leaves contain some types of toxins that can be very hazardous to your dog’s health if eaten in large quantities. It’s always good to feed in moderate amounts.
How to Serve Perilla Leaves Safely to Your Dog?
You should clean the leaves before feeding as this can reduce the risk of any potential toxins.
You can feed chopped perilla leaves in small amounts, if your dog is enjoying eating, then you can increase the amount gradually.
For added flavor, you can also mix in some vegetables such as sweet potatoes or carrots.
To add some extra nutrition, you can feed by adding chicken or turkey to perilla leaves.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dogs can safely eat perilla leaves in moderation. This herb is packed with antioxidants and vitamins that can help keep your pup healthy. With these tips in mind, you can now start adding perilla leaves into your pup’s diet for all their health benefits!
