Can Dogs Drink Chamomile Tea? [Should You Ever Offer It?]

You only hear or read good things about chamomile tea. In fact, it is routinely recommended for anyone looking for a better night’s sleep, to improve their health and so on and so forth! But is chamomile tea good, or even safe for our dogs? I spent some time researching the properties of this aromatic beverage along with reviewing the academic literature, and advice of the experts, to find out. Here is what you need to know.

So, can dogs drink chamomile tea? Most dogs can drink some chamomile tea without negative effects – it is naturally caffeine-free. However, it should only be consumed in small amounts and at room temperature to prevent burning or scolding of your dog’s mouth. Some dogs may be allergic to chamomile so monitor your dog closely after consumption.

Water is generally best and the only drink they should be routinely given.

In fact, there is typically no need to offer them much else. Circumstances depending, of course.

And we all know our dogs are inquisitive.

Sometimes, they take it upon themselves to try new things!

Perhaps you’re even here today because your dog had a lick or two from your cup on the side.

Not to worry.

For the most part, it should be okay.

But let’s take a closer look at chamomile to see why it is generally safe, but can lead to issues – especially in excess.

Is Chamomile Tea Toxic To Dogs?

Chamomile tea is generally safe and is not toxic to dogs. As a tea, the dose is considerably weaker and diluted. However, it must be stated that excessive consumption of chamomile, or continued ingestion over a long period, can result in toxicity and poisoning.

For the most part, a lot has to do with the dose.

A chamomile tea bag is generally quite minimal in regards to dose.

So any adverse side effects are unlikely to be caused by a small amount of tea here and there.

Nevertheless, chamomile poisoning and toxicity are certainly a thing and it can be quite dangerous for dogs.

In mild toxicity cases, your dog could just experience gastrointestinal upset.

In more severe toxicity cases, your dog could even suffer with internal bleeding. 

I don’t want to scare you here.

Chamomile is available to purchase in various ways due to its range of medicinal properties.

It would be the consumption of the herb in concentrated quantities where toxicity is most likely.

So, ingesting the teabag, swallowing a large dose of a chamomile supplement. Those kinds of things.

So as long as these are kept safely away from your dog, and they consume a small amount of tea here and there, toxicity should not be experienced.

One thing to mention here is that some dogs may experience some negative side effects if they are allergic to chamomile.

Usually, itching, rashes, and hives are signs of an allergy to this particular herb.

Something to look out for.

What Does Chamomile Tea Do For Dogs?

In an appropriate amount and assuming no allergies to the herb, chamomile tea can help relieve anxiety, muscle tension and act as an anti-inflammatory to a range of different conditions. This includes digestive issues and other gastrointestinal discomforts.

Let us now explore each one:

Anti-Anxiety

Perhaps the standout benefit of consuming chamomile tea is its relaxing properties. At least for us humans.

That’s why it is often drunk before bed or during any time of intense stress.

And the same can be achieved in dogs.

A small amount of chamomile tea can serve as a mild sedative in dogs. Relieving any stress that they may have.

Whether it’s a thunderstorm, a change in routine, or a new place – any time that causes them agitation.

Muscle Tension

In similar ways, chamomile tea is a natural muscle relaxant.

So, if you notice that your dog is suffering from an injury, or their muscles begin to spasm or cramp – a small amount of chamomile tea can offer some relief.

Gastrointestinal Conditions 

Chamomile tea is very soothing – particularly to the stomach when a small amount has been ingested.

For this reason, it can help a dog with an upset stomach; perhaps they have eaten something that didn’t agree with them, or they have a more serious condition such as a stomach ulcer.

Inflammation

As an anti-inflammatory herb, chamomile tea can also benefit from any symptom of inflammation.

Whether this is painful joints, irritated skin, etc. This particular tea can aid your dog in their time of need.

How Much Chamomile Tea Should I Give My Dog

The minimum effective dose. Or in other words, the lowest amount that you can give that provides a benefit to your dog. So, a small amount, infrequently, is served at a safely cool temperature.

If you are looking for specific serving sizes, well that will depend on a lot of factors.

The size of your dog, the breed, their age, weight, activity levels, state of health, and of course, the strength of the chamomile tea bag itself.

Nevertheless, in a fit and healthy dog, there is no need to give it to them too regularly.

Perhaps save it for a particular time of need, such as during fireworks night or after a period of anxiety and stress.

Maybe after they have been to a new place, met new people, been to the vet; or you do just want to help calm them down.

Other than that if your dog does show signs of gastrointestinal upset, or prolonged inflammation, you may consider providing this tea a little more regularly.

How regularly? Well, that’s something that only you can determine. It’s also strongly advised to discuss it with your vet first.

Besides, your dog may need dedicated and much stronger medication here.

Of course, if your dog shows any adverse reaction to chamomile tea it is essential that you stop giving it to them.

At the same time, it’s essential that you only ever provide plain chamomile tea. Nothing else should be given, such as milk, sugar, etc.

And be sure to check the tea bag; you need it to contain just the chamomile herb.

Be careful with some brands as they like to include other herbs, extracts, and tinctures.

And these could be very problematic to your dog.

Finally

A small amount of chamomile tea, here and then, should be okay for your dog.

In fact, it may even be very beneficial.

But remember. Less is more.

And water should always take priority and be given to our dogs first.

And when it does come to other drinks like chamomile tea; start slowly and monitor your dog closely.

Watch how they respond.

See how they fare.

And do consult a vet if you have any concerns.

Lastly – remain vigilant at all times.

That means:

• They cannot drink a large amount of this tea, or any other drink for that matter, at any one time,
• They only consume an exclusive chamomile tea, not a concoction of other herbs or a drink that contains chamomile,
• You are in control of what, when and where they consume this beverage.

It’s all about being a responsible owner.

In doing so, you can ensure that your dog reaps the rewards from this medicinal herb without any potential consequences.

Wondering what else dogs can and cannot drink? Then you may want to check out my guides below:

• Can Dogs Drink Capri Sun?
• Can Dogs Drink Flavored Water?
• Can Dogs Drink Kombucha?
• Can Dogs Drink Coke?