Golden retriever sniffing dried catnip herbs on a white surface, curious expression, natural lighting, close-up detail

Is Catnip Safe for Dogs? What Experts Say

If you’ve ever wondered whether your furry best friend can enjoy catnip the same way your feline neighbors do, you’re not alone. Many dog owners find themselves standing in the pet store aisle, staring at those little pouches of catnip and asking themselves: Can my dog have this? The answer might surprise you—and it’s more nuanced than a simple yes or no.

The relationship between dogs and catnip is fundamentally different from what we see with cats. While cats go absolutely wild for this mysterious herb, dogs tend to have a much more muted response. But here’s the thing: just because dogs don’t experience catnip the same way cats do doesn’t mean it’s unsafe. In fact, understanding whether dogs can have catnip can open up new enrichment opportunities for your pup.

Let’s dig into what veterinarians and pet experts actually say about this common question, explore the science behind catnip’s effects on different species, and help you figure out whether it’s worth adding to your dog’s toy collection.

What Exactly Is Catnip?

Catnip, scientifically known as Nepeta cataria, is a perennial herb from the mint family. It’s native to Europe and Asia but now grows wild across North America and Europe. The plant contains an essential oil called nepetalactone, which is the compound responsible for those wild reactions you’ve seen in cats.

When you crush catnip leaves or buds, you release this volatile oil, which has a distinctly minty, slightly pungent aroma. The herb has been used for centuries—not just for entertaining cats, but also in traditional medicine for humans. Tea made from catnip was once a popular remedy for digestive issues and anxiety, though modern scientific evidence for these uses is limited.

What makes catnip particularly interesting is that its effects aren’t universal across all animals. The response depends heavily on an individual’s neurochemistry and evolutionary history. This brings us to the burning question: what does catnip actually do to your dog?

How Catnip Works on Cats vs. Dogs

To understand whether catnip works on dogs, we need to look at the science of how it affects different species. The nepetalactone in catnip binds to specific olfactory receptors in the cat’s nose, triggering a response in the brain that produces those hilarious, energetic reactions we all know and love.

In cats, catnip activates the amygdala and hypothalamus—regions of the brain associated with emotion and behavior. This creates what researchers describe as a euphoric or intoxicating effect. Cats may become hyperactive, playful, or conversely, they might become extremely relaxed and content. About 70-80% of cats are sensitive to catnip, while the remaining 20-30% show no response whatsoever.

Playful brown and white dog interacting with catnip-filled toy on wooden floor, energetic pose, bright daylight from window

Dogs, on the other hand, have a completely different olfactory system and neurochemistry. While they possess the same olfactory receptors that could theoretically respond to nepetalactone, their brains don’t process the signals in the same way. According to veterinary research published by the American Kennel Club, most dogs simply don’t have the genetic predisposition to respond to catnip the way cats do.

Why Dogs React Differently to Catnip

The reason dogs don’t go crazy for catnip comes down to evolution and genetics. Cats are obligate carnivores with specific sensory systems that evolved to respond to catnip—possibly because the plant has natural pest-repelling properties that might protect prey animals in their environment. Dogs, being domesticated much later and with different evolutionary pressures, never developed this same sensitivity.

However, this doesn’t mean your dog will have zero response to catnip. Some dogs show mild curiosity, sniffing the herb with interest or displaying a slight increase in activity. A small percentage of dogs might show more pronounced reactions, though this is relatively rare. The variation depends on individual genetics, breed tendencies, and personal preference.

What’s particularly interesting is that what catnip does to dogs can sometimes be the opposite of what it does to cats. While some dogs might become slightly energized, others might feel calmed or simply ignore it entirely. This unpredictability is one reason why catnip isn’t a standard enrichment tool for dogs like it is for cats.

Is Catnip Safe for Dogs? Safety Concerns Explained

Now for the question you really want answered: Is catnip actually safe for your dog? The good news is that catnip is generally considered safe for dogs when used appropriately. It’s non-toxic and doesn’t contain any compounds that will poison or seriously harm your pup. The ASPCA and most veterinary organizations don’t list catnip as a toxic substance for dogs.

That said, there are a few important safety considerations you should keep in mind:

Digestive upset: If your dog ingests large quantities of dried catnip, it might cause mild gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting or diarrhea. Like most plant material, catnip should be given in moderation.
Choking hazard: Loose catnip can pose a choking risk, especially for enthusiastic chewers or dogs who don’t chew their food thoroughly. It’s best to use catnip in toys designed specifically for dogs.
Allergic reactions: Though rare, some dogs might have individual sensitivities to catnip. If your dog shows signs of itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing after exposure, contact your veterinarian immediately.
Pregnancy considerations: If you have a pregnant dog, it’s wise to avoid catnip as some herbal remedies can potentially affect pregnancy, though specific research on catnip in pregnant dogs is limited.

Fluffy mixed breed dog lying down near scattered catnip leaves, relaxed expression, soft natural indoor lighting, peaceful scene

For dogs with certain health conditions, particularly those with gastrointestinal issues or those taking specific medications, it’s always best to consult with your veterinarian before introducing catnip. Your vet knows your dog’s medical history and can provide personalized guidance.

Potential Benefits for Your Dog

While catnip won’t produce the dramatic effects it does in cats, there are some potential benefits to offering it to your dog—particularly if your pup happens to be one of the rare dogs who responds to it.

For dogs that do show interest in catnip, it can serve as an enrichment tool. The mild stimulation might encourage play and mental engagement, which is beneficial for overall well-being. Some dogs find the scent calming, similar to how lavender might affect humans. If your dog falls into this category, a small amount of catnip could contribute to stress relief.

Additionally, catnip-infused toys might appeal to dogs who are otherwise uninterested in their current toy collection. If it gets your dog more excited about playtime and exercise, that’s a win in the enrichment department.

However, if you’re looking for herbs that are more reliably beneficial for dogs, you might want to explore other options. Peppermint is another option to consider, though you’ll want to understand the differences. Similarly, whether peppermint is safe for dogs requires the same careful consideration as catnip. Some dog owners also wonder about whether dogs can eat ginger, which actually has more established health benefits for canines.

Better Alternatives and Similar Herbs

If you’re looking for herbs and enrichment options that might be more beneficial for your dog than catnip, consider these alternatives that have better-documented effects on canines:

Valerian root: This herb has mild sedative properties and might help anxious dogs relax. Some dogs respond positively to valerian, making it useful for calming before stressful events.
Chamomile: Known for its calming properties in humans, chamomile can also help soothe dogs. It’s often used in herbal dog treats designed to reduce anxiety.
Ginger: This root has anti-inflammatory properties and can help with digestive issues and nausea in dogs. It’s one of the few herbs with solid veterinary support.
Turmeric: Containing curcumin, turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Many veterinarians recommend it as a supplement for dogs with joint issues or arthritis.
Dog-specific toys: Rather than relying on herbs, consider puzzle toys, Kong toys, or interactive games that engage your dog’s brain and provide meaningful enrichment.

Each of these alternatives has varying levels of scientific support and different effects on different dogs. Before introducing any new herb or supplement to your dog’s routine, it’s always wise to consult with your veterinarian.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can dogs eat catnip safely?

Yes, catnip is generally safe for dogs to eat in small amounts. It’s non-toxic and not poisonous to canines. However, large quantities might cause mild digestive upset. Always supervise your dog with catnip products and ensure they’re not choking hazards.

Will catnip get my dog high?

No, catnip won’t produce a “high” in dogs the way it does in cats. Dogs lack the specific neurological response to nepetalactone that cats have. Your dog might show mild curiosity or a slight behavioral change, but nothing comparable to the euphoric reaction seen in cats.

How much catnip can I give my dog?

If your dog shows interest in catnip, a small amount—roughly a teaspoon of dried catnip—is sufficient. Start with even less to gauge your individual dog’s response. There’s no established recommended dosage for dogs since catnip isn’t a standard canine supplement.

What should I do if my dog eats a lot of catnip?

If your dog consumes a large quantity of catnip, monitor them for signs of digestive upset like vomiting, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. In most cases, this will pass naturally. If symptoms persist beyond 24 hours or your dog seems severely unwell, contact your veterinarian.

Are there any dog breeds that respond better to catnip?

There’s no scientific evidence that specific dog breeds respond better to catnip than others. Individual personality and genetics seem to play a larger role than breed. Some dogs are simply more curious about new scents and stimuli than others.

Can I use catnip to train my dog?

Since most dogs don’t respond strongly to catnip, it’s not reliable as a training tool. Stick with proven dog training treats and positive reinforcement methods. However, if your individual dog happens to love catnip, you could potentially use it as a reward, though traditional treats are usually more effective.

Is catnip better for dogs or cats?

Catnip is definitely better suited for cats. Cats have the neurological capacity to experience significant effects from catnip, making it an excellent enrichment tool. For dogs, there are usually better alternatives available that provide more reliable benefits and engagement.