Can Dogs Eat Thyme?

Thyme: the little green herb that makes roasted potatoes taste fancy and chicken a little less boring. But if you’ve ever dropped a piece while cooking and watched your dog snatch it up like it was the best thing they’ve ever eaten, you’ve probably wondered — should they be eating that?

We’ve all been there — one second, we’re making dinner, and the next, our pup is on cleanup duty, acting like they’re getting paid for it. But not everything that smells good to us belongs in their bowl. Some herbs are great for dogs. Others? Not so much.

At A Pup Above, we’re all about feeding dogs real food, not just whatever hits the floor. So, in this article, we’re digging into whether thyme is a snack-worthy herb or just another thing your pup wants because, well…they want everything. 

Let’s break it down.

Is It Safe for Dogs To Eat Thyme?

Yes, dogs can eat thyme. It’s not on the no-go list like onions or garlic, so if your pup snags a stray leaf, there’s no need to stress.

That said, just because something is safe doesn’t mean your dog needs to start a backyard herb garden. Dogs don’t rely on seasonings to make their meals exciting the way we do. They’re happy with food that smells like food — no garnish required. But if you’re making fresh meals at home or want to add a little variety, thyme isn’t a bad choice.

Of course, dogs have opinions too. Some will gobble it up without a second thought, while others will give you that classic “Why is there green stuff in my bowl?” look before spitting it out. Either way, a little thyme here and there won’t hurt — just keep it simple and avoid anything that’s been cooked with butter, salt, or other seasonings meant for human taste buds.

What Are the Benefits of Thyme for Dogs?

Wondering if thyme actually does anything for dogs or if it’s just another one of those harmless-but-pointless things they eat off the ground? We get it — when it comes to adding anything new to their diet, it’s good to know if it actually does something. Turns out, thyme isn’t just safe — it packs some real perks for dogs.

For starters, thyme has antimicrobial properties, which means it can help support oral health by fighting off some of the bacteria that cause bad breath. It’s not a replacement for brushing, but if your dog’s breath smells like something that crawled out of a swamp, a little thyme in their diet won’t hurt.

Thyme is also a natural source of antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. Just like in humans, antioxidants can support long-term health and overall wellness. It’s also rich in vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber, all of which contribute to immune support, eye health, and digestion.

On top of that, thyme contains flavonoids, which have soothing properties. While it’s not a magic fix for joint pain or allergies, it’s one of those small, natural additions that can contribute to overall well-being.

So, thyme isn’t just a random herb — it actually brings some benefits to the table. Whether or not your dog appreciates them is another story.

How Much Thyme Should My Dog Eat?

Thyme might be safe, but that doesn’t mean your dog needs to go full-on herbivore. A little goes a long way, and this isn’t something you want to pile on like shredded cheese (even though your pup would totally be on board with that).

For fresh thyme, a pinch or two sprinkled over their meal is plenty. If you’re using dried thyme, keep it even lighter — think a tiny sprinkle, not a seasoning overload. And if you’re adding thyme to homemade dog food, it should stay as a background player, not the star of the dish.

Are There Any Risks to Feeding Thyme to My Dog?

The biggest thing to watch out for is overdoing it — too much thyme can lead to digestive issues like gas, bloating, or an upset stomach. And trust us, no one wants to deal with that.

If your dog has a sensitive stomach or food allergies, introduce thyme slowly and keep an eye out for any weird reactions. While uncommon, some dogs may have an aversion to certain herbs, so it’s always good to monitor how they handle it.

Another thing to consider? Thyme is often used in recipes alongside garlic, onion, or other seasonings that are definitely not dog-friendly. If thyme is coming from a dish meant for humans, double-check that it hasn’t been cooked with ingredients that could be harmful.

Lastly, if your dog has any existing health conditions — especially kidney disease or blood clotting issues — always check with your vet before adding anything new to their diet. Even the safest foods can interact with certain conditions, and it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Thyme Oil vs. Regular Thyme

Not all thyme is created equal — especially when it comes to thyme essential oil. While fresh and dried thyme are safe in small amounts, thyme oil is a different matter.

Essential oils are highly concentrated, which means even a tiny bit can be too much for dogs. Thyme oil, in particular, contains compounds that may irritate their skin, upset their stomach, or even affect their nervous system if ingested in large amounts. And since dogs tend to lick everything — including themselves — topically applying thyme oil isn’t the best idea either.

Plus, many essential oils are mixed with ingredients that aren’t dog-friendly. If you’re thinking about using thyme oil in any way — whether in a diffuser or as a supplement — it’s best to check with your vet first.

The safest bet? Stick with fresh or dried thyme. It’s milder, easier to control, and doesn’t carry the same risks as the concentrated oil.

How Should I Serve My Dog Thyme?

If your dog is cool with thyme (and isn’t one of those pups who picks out every green speck from their bowl), there are a few easy ways to serve it up.

Fresh Thyme

Chop it up into tiny pieces and sprinkle a pinch over their food. You can also steep it in warm water for a light thyme “tea” that can be poured over their meal.

Dried Thyme

A light sprinkle is all you need. Since dried herbs are more concentrated than fresh, less is definitely more.

Mixed Into Homemade Meals

If you’re making fresh food for your pup, thyme can be a great add-in. Just keep it minimal and avoid mixing it with ingredients that aren’t dog-friendly.

Infused In Bone Broth

Thyme pairs well with bone broth, which is already packed with flavor and nutrients. If your dog loves a warm, savory meal, this is a great way to add a little variety.

The Bottom Line

So, can dogs eat thyme? Yep! It’s safe in moderation, adds a little extra nutrition, and might even freshen up that breath (which, let’s be honest, probably needs it). But like any seasoning, it’s best as a sprinkle — not a full-course meal.

At A Pup Above, we’re all about real food that actually fuels your pup. That’s why we cook our fresh meals sous-vide to lock in all the good stuff — like high-quality protein, nutritious bone broth, and non-GMO veggies (yep, including thyme). Want meals that make your dog’s tail wag and keep their health in check? You know where to find us.

Sources:

Can Dogs Eat Thyme? Benefits and Risks of Thyme for Dogs | MasterClass

Antimicrobial Activity of the Essential Oils of Thymus vulgaris L. | ScienceDirect

Oxidative Stress: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment | Cleveland Clinic

A Focused Insight into Thyme | PMC