Mustard Green – Yes, in moderation, whereas mustard seeds, no!
Dogs can eat mustard green in moderation. It has vitamin C and vitamin A. A lot of mustard green, however, may result in runny stool.
Dogs cannot eat the mustard seed. Mustard seeds are harmful to dogs because of the presence of toxic compounds. For example, glucosinolates can trigger gastroenteritis and cause inflammation of the intestinal tract.

What Is Mustard?
Mustard is a dip made out of mustard seeds. It is said that mustard was cultivated during the Indus Valley civilization, which lasted up to 1850 BC. Mustard made from mustard seed as a condiment was first experienced by the Romans. To make mustard, the mustard seeds are mixed in water, lemon juice, and vinegar. Wine is also used alongside vinegar. Salt and other spices are added with the mustard seeds, vinegar, lemon juice, and water, then mixed to make a smooth paste out of it.
Is Mustard Safe for Dogs?
Mustard greens are safe for dogs in moderation. This is due to vitamin A and C. Do not serve raw mustard greens to your pet as it suppresses his thyroid function. Instead, boil the mustard greens until they are soft; mash them and serve your pet without seasonings and spices. Also, remember that other vitamin C and A sources besides mustard greens are better choices for your dog.
Mustard seeds contain glucosinolates, which are harmful to dogs. It leads to severe inflammation of the digestive tract. As a result, it causes diarrhea, vomiting, gastrointestinal issues, nausea, constipation, and a lot more.
Also, mustard in various forms and flavors- Dijon mustard, French mustard, Chinese hot mustard, Horseradish Mustard, Yellow mustard, and Spicy brown mustard should be kept away from your dog.
Hence, entirely avoiding mustard is the best idea to prevent any adverse effects on dogs.
Note: Mustard powder is used in inducing vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. It is not a good idea, especially if done without the vet’s consultation!
Why Is Mustard Bad for Dogs?
Mustard is toxic for dogs to eat. Mustard varieties are highly scented. Let us look into the ingredients which are used to prepare the condiment:
- Vinegar
- Salt
- Sugar
- Horseradish
- Paprika
- Turmeric
- Garlic powder
Salt, Sugar, Horseradish, Paprika, Garlic powder are toxic for dogs. Your dog will face too many adverse effects if he consumes mustard. Along with these ingredients, the intake of glucosinolates can trigger:
- Gas
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Dehydration
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Inflammation of intestinal tract
- Gastroenteritis
- Throat issues
- Nostril irritation
- Mouth irritation
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Weight gain
- Loss of appetite
- High blood pressure
- Salt poisoning
- Thyroid damage
- Drooling
How Much Mustard to Feed Your Dog?
If you plan to feed mustard green to your dog, limit it to once in 2 weeks. Too much of the leaves can harm your dog following diarrhea, constipation, and vomiting.
You must not offer your dog mustard seeds in any amount. They are highly dangerous for your dog.
What If My Dog Ate Mustard?
If your dog accidentally ate mustard, you will have to wait until he shows the following symptoms:
- low stamina due to dehydration
- runny stool
- Abdominal pain
- vomit due to glucosinolates present.
- whine due to stomach aches
- intestinal tract inflammation known as gastroenteritis
- gassy
- constipation
- flu-like symptoms such as vomiting, sudden diarrhea, pain, pacing back and forth or in a circle, etc.
Take your dog to the veterinarian if he shows these symptoms. Do provide him enough water that will keep him hydrated and also help him ease his stomach.
After you visit the vet hospital, the doctor might use stomach detox solutions to induce vomiting. Then, the vet gives your dog activated charcoal to prevent him from absorbing the remaining toxins.
IV fluids will then be given to keep your dog hydrated and healthy.
After this is done, the vet will be giving you a diet plan which only includes bland food for the dog.
Alternatives to Mustard
Mustard is a spice, which is not recommended for dogs. However, there are few spices that a dog can consume. Let us check out the list of spices a dog can have:
- Parsley
- Turmeric
- Cinnamon
- Basil
- Ginger
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Dogs Eat Honey Mustard?
No, dogs cannot eat honey mustard. The presence of honey can cause obesity, weight gain, diabetes.
Can Dogs Eat Wholegrain Mustard?
No, your dogs cannot eat wholegrain mustard. With visible mustard seeds, you should keep wholegrain mustard at bay from your pup.
Can Dogs Eat Mustard and Ketchup
Both mustard and ketchup are harmful to dogs. Therefore, they should not be given mustard and ketchup.
Can Dogs Eat Mustard Powder?
Mustard powder is also dangerous to dogs, especially if the seeds are not finely ground. Therefore, dogs should be refrained from consuming mustard powder even in a minimum amount.
Can Puppies Eat Mustard?
No, puppies cannot eat mustard. This is because they are much prone to adverse effects due to their vulnerable stomach.
Conclusion
Winding up whether dogs can eat mustard or not, we could comprehend that it is toxic for dogs. The ingredients alone pose the risk of salt poisoning, obesity, weight gain, diabetes, diarrhea, drooling, thyroid. At the same time, the presence of glucosinolates can be dangerous too. Therefore, it is strictly prohibited for dogs to consume. There are healthy spice alternatives to mustard for dogs like basil, cinnamon, parsley. Always consult a vet before introducing new foods to your dog. Keep your dog healthy!