Why Does My Dog Lick Dandelions?

Lots of dogs like to lick dandelions, especially during spring and summer! You might wonder if they are okay to eat.

Dandelions are safe for dogs to eat. They are even good for them! But before you let your dog eat every dandelion in the yard, here are some important things to know.

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Dandelions: Not Just Weeds

Dandelions look like weeds, but they are actually full of healthy stuff! They are a type of herb with lots of vitamins and minerals. They have vitamins A, C, K, and E. They also have iron, calcium, and potassium!

Good Things Dandelions Do For Dogs

Here are some ways dandelions can help your dog:

Help with Digestion: Dandelions can help your dog’s tummy feel better if they are gassy or have an upset stomach.
Help with Swelling: Dandelions have natural things in them that help reduce swelling in their body.
Stronger Immune System: Dandelions have lots of antioxidants. Antioxidants help your dog’s body fight off germs and stay healthy.
Healthier Liver: Dandelions can help the liver work better. The liver cleans the blood and keeps a dog healthy.
Help Get Rid of Extra Fluid: Dandelions can help get rid of extra fluid in the body.

Can Dogs Eat Dandelion Puffs?

Yes! Dogs can eat the whole dandelion, even the fluffy puffball!

Can Dogs Eat Yellow Dandelions?

Yes! All parts of the dandelion, including the yellow flower, are safe for dogs.

Can Dandelions Make Dogs Sick?

If a dog eats a lot of dandelions, it might give them diarrhea, which means going potty a lot. But dandelions themselves won’t poison a dog. Start by giving your dog just a little bit of dandelion and see how they feel.

Can My Dog Eat All Parts of the Dandelion?

Yes! They can eat the flower, leaves, and the root! Each part has different benefits.

Flowers: Have lots of antioxidants, which protect the body.
Leaves: Have lots of vitamins and minerals, which keep the body strong and healthy.
Root: Can be used to make a tea that’s good for the liver and kidneys.

How Much Dandelion Can My Dog Eat?

Even though dandelions are safe for dogs, they shouldn’t eat too many.

Ask your vet how much is okay for your dog.

Watch Out For Sprays!

Make sure the dandelions haven’t been sprayed with pesticides! Pesticides kill bugs but can make dogs very sick. It’s best not to let your dog eat dandelions if you don’t know if they have been sprayed.

Why Do Dogs Lick Dandelions?

Nobody knows for sure why dogs like to lick dandelions! But here are some guesses:

Maybe they taste good! Some dogs eat grass and other plants.
Maybe it’s instinct! Dogs naturally want to find food, and dandelions might look tasty to them.
Maybe dogs need the nutrients! Maybe dogs eat dandelions because their bodies need the vitamins and minerals.

What If My Dog Eats Too Many Dandelions?

If your dog eats a lot of dandelions and gets a tummy ache or diarrhea, call your vet right away.

Where to Buy Dandelions for Dogs

These articles don’t talk about where to buy dandelions for dogs. But you can probably find dandelion supplements online or at a pet store.

Dandelions Can Be Good for Dogs!

Dandelions are a safe and healthy treat for dogs! They are full of vitamins, minerals, and other healthy things. So next time your dog is licking a dandelion, don’t worry! It’s probably good for them.