Is catnip safe for dogs?

Updated 29/09/2023

While cat parents will already be pretty well versed in the world of catnip (along with all the crazy and hilarious effects it can have on our feline friends!). But for dog owners, the question still stands: is catnip safe for dogs, and does catnip affect dogs in the same way as those of the feline persuasion? Let’s find out… 

Is catnip plant safe for dogs?

Is it safe for dogs to eat catnip? The good news is that yes, catnip is safe for dogs. So, whether Fido has taken a liking to Felix’s catnip cat toys or you’re wondering if catnip could be a beneficial addition to your doggy’s repertoire, rest assured that catnip won’t do them any harm. 

While catnip causes many cats to go a little crazy, it actually has a mild sedative effect in dogs, and catnip has even been used to help pooches suffering from anxiety. It can also aid a good night's sleep if your dog has trouble falling asleep at night.

Much like with cats, not all dogs will be susceptible to the effects of catnip. Additionally, it’s not recommended to give catnip to dogs who are pregnant or nursing puppies, or those with heart or urinary issues. It’s as yet unknown if catnip is safe to give to dogs on any medication, so always check with your veterinarian.

What is catnip? 

Ok - let’s circle back a moment here! What actually is catnip? 

Catnip (or ‘Nepeta cataria’) is a herb, a member of the mint family. While it is often used as a popular base for tea, enjoyed by we humans, it's most commonly known as a cat stimulant - and is often found in kitty toys, treats, and can even be sprinkled on to some of your cat’s favorite hangout spots, such as their bed or scratching post. Catnip comes in a variety of forms - fresh, dried, in sprays and in oils. You can even grow it in your own backyard!

Catnip contains an active ingredient called nepetalactone - this is what triggers some cats to roll, stretch, lick, or become hyperactive (and if you're not sure what we mean, we highly recommend pausing here and heading to YouTube to watch one of the many, many videos documenting cats on catnip... we’ll wait here).

Benefits of catnip for dogs

Ok, so catnip won’t cause dogs any harm. But are there any benefits to giving your dog catnip? 

Catnip contains a number of vitamins and minerals including vitamin C, vitamin E, magnesium, tannins, flavonoids, and essential oils, which can help to support a healthy doggy digestive system and could also help some pooches suffering from tummy troubles. 

Additionally, the mild sedative effect of catnip in dogs could help to alleviate some of the symptoms of anxiety (particularly if your nervous pooch has an upcoming trip to the vet or groomer in the diary). It can also help to aid a good night's sleep; fresh catnip can even be used as a natural antiseptic, due to its antibacterial and healing properties.

While catnip is safe for dogs, it is not designed to be a daily health supplement, and too much catnip could lead to an upset stomach. We would always recommend speaking to your vet before giving your dog catnip, particularly if you are looking for ways to help your dog with anxiety, as there may be more effective methods they can suggest in the first instance. 

Meet our veterinary expert, Lizzie

This article has been checked by veterinarian Lizzie Youens BSc (Hons) BVSc MRCVS. Lizzie graduated from the University of Bristol in 2011, and has been working in first opinion companion animal practice. She has worked in a variety of clinics across the UK, from large hospitals to small branch practices. She enjoys doing a mixture of medicine, surgery and emergency work. Lizzie currently works in a small rural practice where she enjoys working in a close-knit community. 

Poisonous plants for dogs to avoid: a guide

While catnip is perfectly safe for our canine companions, unfortunately, there are plenty of things - both in the wild and even inside your home - that could cause our pooch pals serious harm. Check out the main poisonous plants for dogs to avoid here.