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My 7 kg terrier keeps sniffing the coriander plant — is 'leave it' training effective here?

Dogs · Food safety

Last reviewed: 2026-09-05 · Reference ranges: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline & Merck Veterinary Manual

Short answer

Yes, 'leave it' training is a great idea for any non-food item, even safe ones like coriander. It helps prevent future problems with truly dangerous plants or foods. Since coriander is safe for dogs in small amounts, there's no immediate poisoning risk if he nibbles a leaf. Just keep reinforcing the command with treats, and call your own vet if he ever eats a large amount and seems unwell.

Coriander — Food safety facts

Safe to share · Dogs · full breakdown on the linked food page

Safe in small amounts, both the seed and the leaf.

Dogs and cats carry the same rating (Safe to share), so the notes below hold for either pet.

Coriander is not toxic to dogs. The real limit is calories, fat and salt, so treat it as a small extra alongside the normal ration rather than a meal in itself.

There is no poisoning risk here, and the usual problem is simply eating too much at once: a heavy fat or salt load can bring on loose stools or a single vomit. Offer water, keep an eye on the pet for 24 hours, and do not induce vomiting.

Why these cautions matter

Stone-fruit pits and some seeds release cyanide when crushed, and quite apart from that they are a choking and blockage hazard.

The full verdict, portion guidance and serving notes are collected on the Coriander food facts page.

Open the full food page: Coriander food facts →