What Does Catnip Do to Dogs?

What Does Catnip Do to Dogs? Catnip has a calming effect on dogs, rather than the euphoric reaction seen in cats.

When consumed or smelled, it can act as a mild sedative, helping to ease anxiety or aid digestion.

Understanding how catnip affects dogs can help pet owners use it safely and effectively for their canine companions.

Understanding Catnip and Its Effects on Dogs

Catnip (Nepeta cataria), a herb from the mint family, is widely known for its stimulating effect on cats, but its influence on dogs is quite different.

While catnip doesn’t trigger the same playful or excited behavior in dogs, it is entirely safe for them and can actually be beneficial in certain situations.

Instead of acting as a stimulant, catnip tends to have calming properties when consumed by dogs, making it a natural option for reducing anxiety or stress.

This can be especially useful during stressful events such as vet visits, thunderstorms, or car rides. In some cases, catnip may even serve as a mild sedative, helping to soothe nervous or anxious dogs without the need for prescription medications.

Though the effects are generally mild, catnip can be an effective tool to help keep your dog calm and relaxed in tense situations.

According to AKC, catnip is non-toxic to dogs and may be used to help them relax in certain scenarios.

Read more about catnip and its chemical properties in the Wikipedia article on catnip.

For more on managing stress and anxiety in pets, see our guide to calming remedies for anxious dogs.

Catnip as a Digestive Aid for Dogs

Catnip can also benefit a dog’s digestive system when used correctly. Dr. Hinsperger says dogs may experience the following benefits if they consume catnip in moderation:

• Stress and Anxiety Relief: Catnip can provide a soothing effect for dogs, potentially alleviating stress and anxiety during certain situations. This can be particularly beneficial for dogs with storm phobia, separation anxiety, or other stress-related issues.

• Better Sleep: If your dog struggles with insomnia, giving them catnip before bedtime may help promote relaxation and improve their ability to sleep.

• Flea and Mosquito Prevention: The oils found in catnip might serve as a natural insect repellent, making it a good idea to plant catnip around your home to keep fleas and mosquitoes at bay. Additionally, catnip oil can be used as a topical flea treatment, but it’s advisable to consult your veterinarian before applying it.

Some dog owners choose to give their dogs catnip or catnip oil mixed with their food due to its potential benefits. A small amount can be fine if your dog enjoys it, but it shouldn’t be given daily as a supplement.

“Fortunately, catnip is very safe for dogs,” says Dr. Hinsperger. However, like with any substance, consuming too much can lead to an upset stomach. Leslie Sinn, DVM, DACVB, from Behavior Solutions, advises that while it’s important to monitor your dog when they consume the live plant, dogs would need to ingest a significant amount for it to cause any adverse effects.

Dr. Karen Becker, a holistic veterinarian, suggests that “Catnip can be a gentle herb for calming or helping with digestive upsets in dogs, but always consult with a vet before use.”

PetMD notes that while catnip is primarily associated with cats, it can provide mild digestive relief for dogs when used sparingly.