Rosemary is a Mediterranean shrub used in many delicious meals for us humans. Interestingly, pet food companies also have rosemary in their pet food as a natural preservative.

“Rosemary, in most forms (dried, fresh whole plant, tincture or tea) can be used very safely in dogs, and is Generally Regarded as Safe (GRAS) by FDA for use in both humans and animals,”
- Gregory L. Tilford, co-author of Herbs for Pets.

The benefits of Rosemary include:

Antimicrobial Properties
Rosemary is a great pathogen-fighter against common food bacteria the can grow in food, it’s no wonder why many pet food companies use it as a natural preservative. The pathogen-fighting capabilities of rosemary extend to your pet’s body, where it can protect them from various fungi and bacteria. Rosemary is helpful in the treatment of minor cuts, skin burns, oral, urinary and digestive tract infections.
An Antioxidant
Rosemary contains antioxidants. This means that it can help eliminate free radicals in your dog’s body. An excess of free radicals that can cause cancer and resulting cell damage has been linked to age-related illnesses like cardiovascular disease. It is a healthy herb to incorporate in your dog’s diet plan.
Digestion Support
Rosemary is also known for its abilities in the digestive system, especially when it comes to gas, indigestion and other related problems. When your dog digests food better, this can lead to a healthier stomach and better absorption of micronutrients. It also helps prevent gastrointestinal infection. Say no more to the stink bomb.
Healthy Heart
The antispasmodic (spasm preventing) abilities on smooth muscles that rosemary has, can also help the heart in some cases of cardiac arrhythmia, and also generally strengthen the heart. This could be helpful for animals recovering from a traumatic event. If your dog has cardiac issues, you might want to have a conversation with your vet before adding rosemary to your dog’s diet.

Toxicity of Rosemary

Note that not all forms of Rosemary are the same. Very high doses of rosemary essential oils have shown the potential for toxicity problems for pets and humans. Essential Oils are often produced using heat and steam. This process keeps much higher concentration levels that are not safe for ingestion by humans or pets.

With Tori at Kuro Snacks, we use dried rosemary leaves, which is not as concentrated and safe for dogs.

Whilst it is a featured herb in Tori, it is also present in smaller amounts in Buta and Gyū as well.