How to Grow an Herb Garden for Your Dog

Animals will instinctually eat certain plants when they aren't feeling well. Accordingly, many veterinarians are increasingly taking an integrative approach to pet care by prescribing everything from homeopathic remedies to herbal medicines. But did you know that you can grow healing herbs to benefit your dog, right at home in your own garden? It’s quite easy and can be therapeutic for you too!

Plant These Herbs for Dogs:

1. Burdock is one of the best herbs for skin problems. It can be given internally and externally as a wash for dry, irritated skin. Burdock is well known for its anti-cancer potential and its impact on the lymphatics, reducing heat and congestion in the body.

2. Milk Thistle  Known for its healing benefits to the liver, milk thistle is a great choice for a pet herb garden. One of the lesser-known benefits is that it is very calming for your dog’s temper.

3. Lemon balm is a hardy perennial that prefers moist soil. It’s great for senior pets because it strengthens memory and vitality. Lemon Balm can also calm the nervous system and soothe the stomach ailments of highly anxious dogs.

4. Peppermint is super-easy to grow. Like Burdock, it will flourish and take over if you give it the chance. While peppermint will help your dog with nausea and indigestion, it is also great for freshening your pooch’s breath, relieving toothaches, and soothing insect bites—not to mention it will give off a lovely fragrance!

5. Astragalus is a popular and highly versatile herb that can be used for a variety of conditions. It can promote healing, improve digestion, decrease blood sugar, and decrease blood pressure. It can be given as a dried herb in a decoction or as a tincture.