Green Dog Breath Mints

Dog kisses are a lot more pleasant with a little help, and these green breath mints use fresh parsley and mint to tackle that classic dog breath smell in a simple, chewy little bite.

Unlike a store bought breath freshening product, these are made from just a few whole ingredients, so you know exactly what’s going into something your dog will be getting up close and personal with you after.

I like keeping a small container of these by the door, since they’ve become a quick, easy habit before letting my dog greet guests or curl up next to me on the couch.

Why You’ll Love These Green Dog Breath Mints

A few reasons these are worth keeping on hand.

Naturally freshening. Parsley and mint are both known for helping freshen breath.

Simple ingredients. Just a few whole, recognizable ingredients, nothing artificial involved.

Small, easy bites. Sized for a quick, frequent treat rather than a full size biscuit.

Fun green color. The natural color comes entirely from the parsley and mint, no dye needed.

Freezer friendly. A batch keeps well, so you always have a fresh supply on hand.

Are Parsley and Mint Safe for Dogs?

Both ingredients are commonly used in dog friendly breath freshening products, but a couple of details are worth knowing.

Fresh parsley, specifically curly parsley, is generally considered safe for dogs in small amounts and is a common ingredient in breath freshening treats. Avoid spring parsley, which is a different plant and can be harmful to dogs, so stick to the curly or flat leaf variety found in most grocery stores.

Fresh mint leaves, used in moderation, are also generally considered safe for dogs. This recipe uses whole mint leaves rather than mint extract or mint essential oil, since concentrated oils can be too strong and potentially harmful for dogs.

Avoid any product labeled “breath freshening” that contains xylitol, an artificial sweetener found in some dental products and sugar free items, which is highly toxic to dogs even in small amounts. This homemade version avoids that risk entirely.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what goes into these simple, chewy mints.

Fresh parsley, finely chopped, provides both flavor and that signature green color.

Fresh mint leaves, finely chopped, add a cooling, breath freshening element.

Unflavored gelatin gives these mints their chewy, gummy texture.

Water, used to dissolve the gelatin and blend with the herbs.

Ingredient List

• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
• 1 cup water
• 3 tablespoons unflavored gelatin

How to Make Green Dog Breath Mints

1. Add the chopped parsley, mint, and water to a blender and blend until smooth and well combined.
2. Pour the mixture into a small saucepan and warm it gently over low heat, without letting it boil.
3. Sprinkle the gelatin evenly over the warm liquid, whisking continuously to prevent clumps from forming.
4. Continue whisking over low heat until the gelatin is fully dissolved, about 2 to 3 minutes.
5. Pour the mixture into a small silicone mold, filling each cavity close to the top.
6. Carefully transfer the mold to the refrigerator and chill for at least two hours, or until the mints are fully set and firm to the touch.
7. Once set, gently pop the mints out of the mold and store them in an airtight container.

Getting the Right Texture

A few notes on texture for this recipe.

If the mints turn out too soft or don’t fully set, there likely wasn’t enough gelatin dissolved into the liquid, or the mixture didn’t chill long enough. Try adding an extra half tablespoon of gelatin next time.

If the mints turn out too firm, reduce the gelatin slightly on your next batch.

Straining the blended parsley and mint mixture before adding the gelatin can give you a smoother, less fibrous texture, though leaving it as is adds a bit more visible herb throughout.

Recipe Variations

Once you’ve made the base recipe, these variations are worth trying.

Parsley and coconut oil mints. Stir in a small amount of melted coconut oil for added flavor.

Mini bite sized mints. Use a small mold for tiny, frequent use mints that work well throughout the day.

Parsley and apple mints. Blend in a small amount of apple, core and seeds removed, for a hint of natural sweetness alongside the freshening herbs.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using spring parsley instead of curly or flat leaf parsley. Spring parsley is a different plant that can be harmful to dogs, so always double check you’re using a dog safe variety.

Using mint extract or mint essential oil instead of fresh mint leaves. Concentrated oils are too strong for this recipe and should not be substituted for whole mint leaves.

Letting the mixture boil after adding gelatin. High heat can affect how well gelatin sets, so keep the mixture warm rather than boiling.

Not whisking the gelatin in thoroughly. Clumps of undissolved gelatin lead to an uneven texture, so whisk continuously as you sprinkle it in.

Skipping the full chill time. Mints that haven’t set long enough will be too soft to hold their shape when removed from the mold.

How Many Mints Can a Dog Have?

Since these are small and low calorie, they can be offered a bit more freely than a richer treat, though moderation is still a good general practice.

One or two mints a day is a reasonable amount for most dogs, offered whenever a little breath freshening help is useful.

How to Store Green Dog Breath Mints

Refrigerator. Since these contain no preservatives, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week.

Freezer. For longer storage, freeze the mints in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid.

Always check the mints before giving them to your dog, and discard any that develop an unusual smell or texture.

Can You Freeze These Mints?

Yes, freezing is a simple way to extend their shelf life.

1. Let the mints fully set in the fridge before freezing.
2. Arrange them in a single layer on a tray and freeze until solid.
3. Transfer the frozen mints into a labeled freezer bag or container.
4. Thaw a few in the fridge for a couple of hours before giving them to your dog.

More Homemade Treat Ideas

If you’re interested in more wellness focused treats, these recipes are worth trying next.

• Calming Chamomile Gummy Dog Treats
• Homemade Peanut Butter Pumpkin Soft Dog Treats
• Healthy Homemade Cat Treats

For more ideas on feeding your dog well beyond treats, check out 7 Healthiest Homemade Dog Foods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is parsley safe for dogs? Curly and flat leaf parsley are generally considered safe for dogs in small amounts and are common ingredients in breath freshening treats. Avoid spring parsley, which is a different plant and can be harmful to dogs.

Is mint safe for dogs? Fresh mint leaves, used in moderation, are generally considered safe for dogs. Avoid mint extract or mint essential oil, which are too concentrated for this kind of recipe.

Do these mints actually help with dog breath? Parsley and mint are both commonly used for their natural breath freshening properties, though results can vary and they work best as part of an overall dental care routine rather than a replacement for it.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh? Fresh parsley and mint give the best flavor and color for this recipe, though a smaller amount of dried herbs could be used in a pinch.

How long do these mints last? About a week in the fridge and up to two months in the freezer when stored properly.

Can puppies have these mints? In small amounts, most puppies can enjoy these, but check with your veterinarian first, especially for very young puppies.

Should these replace regular dental care? No, these work best alongside regular teeth brushing and dental care, not as a replacement for it.

A Final Note on Offering These Mints

These have become a small, easy habit that makes a real difference before cuddle time or when guests come by, and there’s something satisfying about a breath freshener made from whole, simple ingredients rather than something artificial.

Keep a batch in the fridge, and you’ll always have a quick, natural way to freshen things up.