Catnip is generally safe for dogs to ingest, but it doesnt affect them in the same way it does cats. While catnip acts as a stimulant for cats, it acts as a sedative for dogs. Some dogs may experience mild sedation when given catnip, but many have no response at all. Catnip contains vitamins A and E, as well as magnesium, which some preliminary animal studies suggest has a calming effect in the brain. Therefore, some veterinarians recommend catnip for dogs as an alternative form of treatment for some conditions or behavior. Catnip can also help with digestive problems and relieve gas in dogs. If you want to give your dog catnip, you can sprinkle 1/8 to 1/2 teaspoon of dried catnip on their food. However, it should not be given as a health supplement, and you should monitor your dogs response to it.