Pesto is a delicious sauce made with pine nuts, basil, garlic, and olive oil. It is commonly used in Italian cuisine and is a staple in many households. However, if you’re a pet owner, you may be wondering if it’s safe to share pesto with your furry friend. The simple answer is no. Let’s take a closer look at why.
Garlic is toxic to dogs and can cause gastrointestinal irritation and red blood cell damage. Pesto contains a high amount of garlic, which makes it unsafe for your pup to consume. Additionally, olive oil is another ingredient found in pesto that can cause digestive upset, vomiting, and diarrhea in dogs. Pine nuts, which are also a key ingredient in traditional pesto, are high in fat and phosphorus and can cause stomach upset even in small quantities. Given these factors, it is best to avoid giving any type of pesto to your dog.
But, if you’re a pet parent who wants to share herbs with your furry friend, fear not. You can make a dog-safe pesto that is made with dog-friendly ingredients. Parsley and basil are both safe herbs for dogs to consume. Dill, rosemary, and sage are also safe and offer a variety of health benefits for your pup. When it comes to nuts, some are safe in small quantities, while others are toxic to dogs. For example, macadamia nuts are very toxic, while peanuts and cashews are safe in moderation. However, all nuts are high in fat and can cause digestive upset and weight gain over time.
To make a dog-safe pesto for your furry friend, consider creating a puree with herbs, fruits, and vegetables. Water or low-sodium broth can be used as a liquid base instead of olive oil. Avoid using any type of oil for this purpose, as it can lead to stomach upset and weight gain. Never make pesto for your dog with onions, garlic, shallots, or chives— all of which are harmful to dogs. If your pup has any underlying medical conditions, it’s always best to speak to your veterinarian before adding new foods to their diet.
In conclusion, pesto sauce is usually not safe for dogs due to its high levels of garlic and fat content. While you can make dog-safe pesto using herbs, fruits, and vegetables, make sure to check that all the ingredients are safe for your furry friend. High-fat foods like pesto can lead to pancreatitis, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Over time, high-calorie foods like this can also lead to weight gain and obesity. When it comes to feeding your pup, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and stick to foods found on the dog-friendly list.
