Can Dogs Eat Cilantro?

SAFE

YES — Fresh cilantro leaves are not toxic to dogs and are fine in small amounts.

A little chopped cilantro leaf in food is fine. Too much can upset the stomach, and the stems are harder to digest. Dishes made with cilantro are not covered.

On this page
A small bunch of fresh cilantro leaves on a light wooden board.

Quick answer

Category
Herbs
Recommended preparation
fresh leaves, chopped, small amounts
Main concern
stomach upset in large amounts; dishes containing onion or garlic
Suitable as everyday food
a little in food is fine

The full answer

Both PetMD and AKC say cilantro is not toxic to dogs. AKC recommends the leaves in moderation and notes that the stems can be hard to digest.

This page covers fresh culinary leaves only. Concentrated oils and supplements, and coriander seed used as a spice, are not covered.

Dishes such as salsa, guacamole and cilantro-lime rice often contain onion, garlic or other ingredients that are unsuitable for dogs.

Risks and Things to Know

  • Too much can cause stomach upset.
  • Stems are harder to digest.
  • Salsa, guacamole and cilantro-lime rice may contain onion, garlic or avocado.

How Much Can Dogs Eat?

Small culinary amounts. The veterinary guidance we reviewed does not give a specific weight-based amount.

How Should I Prepare It?

  • Fresh leaves, washed and chopped.
  • Leave out the stems; no oils or supplements.

What If My Dog Ate Too Much?

If your dog ate a dish with cilantro that also contained onion, garlic or avocado, contact your veterinarian.

This guide is for general educational purposes and isn't a substitute for advice from your veterinarian. If your dog has eaten something potentially toxic or is showing concerning symptoms, contact a veterinarian promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. PetMD and AKC both say cilantro is not toxic to dogs.

AKC recommends the leaves; the stems can be hard to digest.

A small amount chopped into food.

No. These dishes often contain onion, garlic or other unsuitable ingredients.

The plant is the same, but this page covers the fresh leaves only, not coriander seed or spice.

Concentrated oils and supplements are not covered by this answer.

How this guide was written

Last updated 2 October 2026. We write from widely published, mainstream pet-health sources and avoid presenting feeding amounts as veterinary prescriptions.

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