Can Yorkies eat parsley?

Fresh curly parsley, finely chopped in small amounts, is safe for most dogs and is sometimes used as a natural breath freshener. The important distinction is the type: 'spring parsley' is a different plant that contains compounds which can cause photosensitivity, and it is not the same as the curly or flat-leaf parsley in your kitchen. Stick to a pinch of common kitchen parsley, chopped small and stirred into food. Large amounts aren't advisable, particularly for pregnant dogs or those with kidney problems.

What Yorkie owners need to know

• Use common curly (or flat-leaf) kitchen parsley — avoid 'spring parsley', a different plant that can cause photosensitivity.
• A pinch, finely chopped, is plenty; large amounts aren't advisable.
• Skip larger amounts for pregnant dogs or dogs with kidney problems — ask your vet.

How preparation changes the answer

Safe preparation

• Rinse fresh curly parsley and finely chop a small pinch.
• Stir it into your dog's food occasionally.
• Use kitchen parsley, never 'spring parsley'.

Nutrition at a glance

Possible benefits

• A small amount can help freshen doggy breath.
• Provides vitamins K and C and some antioxidants in tiny amounts.
• Very low in calories as a food garnish.

Risks & things to watch

• 'Spring parsley' (a different plant) contains compounds that can cause photosensitivity.
• Large amounts aren't advisable, especially for pregnant dogs or those with kidney disease.
• As a garnish it's unnecessary — a complete diet already covers nutrition.

If your Yorkie ate too much

A pinch too much curly parsley is unlikely to cause more than mild tummy upset. If your dog ate a large amount, or you're unsure whether it was 'spring parsley', call your vet for advice.

Frequently asked questions