Peppermint is an herb that is commonly found in Europe and North America. It’s derived from the mint family and comes with several health benefits for human beings. Apart from that, it has a high menthol concentration which adds flavor to most beverages.
Peppermint can also be used to treat different conditions like muscle aches and headaches as well as alleviate other symptoms. Although there is no scientific evidence to prove the benefits of peppermint for dogs, some dog owners swear by this oil for getting rid of fleas and ticks.
If you’re asking yourself, “do dogs like the smell of peppermint?”, then this article will explore that question.
Is Peppermint’s Smell Safe for Dogs?
Do dogs hate the smell of mint? Well, compared to human beings, dogs have a very powerful sense of smell. While human beings have 6 million olfactory receptors in their nose, dogs are believed to have up to 300 million.
When inhaled, peppermint can be distressing to dogs, and it can even lead to respiratory issues. This is because your pet might end up breathing the tiny droplets in the air or even coat their fur.
What Happens When Your Dogs Ingest Peppermint?
When ingested, peppermint can cause an upset stomach to your four-legged friend, it can cause an upset stomach. What’s more, peppermint is usually combined with artificial sweetener ingredients which can be toxic to dogs.
Most gums and candies contain xylitol which is also known as birch sugar. This artificial sweetener can be very toxic to dogs. When ingested, it can lead to issues like diarrhea, vomiting, lethargy, lack of coordination, and seizures. In other cases, it can lead to liver failure, hypoglycemia, or even death if left untreated.
The other ingredient that may be found in peppermint candy is pennyroyal oil. This oil is found in mint plants and can be toxic for your dog when ingested.
Now, this answers the question, “can a dog smell peppermint?”. Due to the symptoms of peppermint, dogs don’t like its smell. Naturally, you will notice a behavior change like wagging its tail each time it comes into contact with the herb.
Are there Any Benefits of Peppermint for Dogs?
Although peppermint can lead to some unwanted consequences, most pet owners want to know if the herb has any health benefits.
For one, peppermint is thought to aid in digestion and soothe a dog’s upset stomach. It is also believed to help alleviate the signs of joint inflammation, though there is no scientific evidence to back this claim.
But do dogs like peppermint smell, and is it beneficial to them? Overall, there is no scientific evidence that peppermint can be beneficial to dogs as is the case with humans. Therefore, it helps to ensure that you first talk to your vet to know which peppermint products are safe for your dog.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Is the smell of peppermint bad for dogs? If your fido has been exposed to the smell of peppermint, they are likely to show certain symptoms of toxicity which include the following:
- Vomiting
- Coughing or wheezing
- Difficulty breathing
- Skin irritation
- Mouth irritation
- Difficulty breathing
- Drooling
- Lethargy or wobbliness
- Watery eyes or nose
If your dog has inhaled peppermint, make sure that you take them out to get fresh air before taking them to the vet. If the oil is on their skin or fur, wash with dishwashing soap before going to a vet clinic.
Treatment for Peppermint Toxicity
Do dogs hate the smell of peppermint? Typically, dogs manifest certain symptoms when exposed to the smell of peppermint.
More often than not, the course of treatment will depend on the method by which your dog came into contact with the peppermint. If your canine has inhaled this herb, you need to take them to the veterinary for treatment. The vet will run blood tests to see whether the liver or kidney has been affected.
If necessary, the vet will give your pup the right medication. If ingested, the vet can induce vomiting to help remove the ingested toxins. The vet can also administer activated charcoal for your furry friend.
Is the smell of peppermint toxic to dogs?
The smell of peppermint can be very overpowering for dogs. This makes it very dangerous and toxic for dogs, making them naturally stay away. When inhaled, peppermint can lead to changes in your dog’s behavior and even cause respiratory issues. Therefore, try as much as possible to keep your canine friend away from peppermint.
Can dogs be around peppermint?
No, dogs can feel very uncomfortable being around peppermint. In some cases, they might even experience different symptoms.
Usually, dogs that come into contact with peppermint can show signs of weakness, vomiting, lethargy, and drooling. In severe cases, exposure to peppermint can affect your pet’s internal organs like its liver.
Why does my dog like peppermint?
Peppermint has a refreshing flavor that can potentially help with your dog’s digestion. As such, it’s not surprising that some dogs actually like the smell of peppermint. Most specifically, dogs love mint treats with sweeteners.
Nevertheless, you need to be very careful and limit your dog’s consumption of peppermint to prevent severe issues. Also, ensure that you choose the right mint as some can be toxic.
Conclusion
We hope this article has answered your question of “Is the scent of peppermint bad for dogs?’ Ultimately, peppermint can be toxic to dogs, and that is why most dogs don’t like its smell. This naturally refreshing herb has a very strong scent that can cause discomfort in your pet.
When inhaled, peppermint can negatively affect your dog and cause respiratory issues. In some cases, it can even lead to death. So, always ensure that you consult with a vet for safe recommendations.
What is the reaction of your pup when it comes into contact with peppermint? Please let us know in the comment section below.
