Can Dogs Drink Tea

Can dogs drink tea?

Tea is one of those comforting rituals many of us love — a quiet cup in the morning or a soothing brew at bedtime. But when your dog looks up at you longingly while you sip, it’s natural to wonder if they can enjoy a little tea of their own. In most cases, dogs should not drink traditional tea that contains caffeine. While a small lick might not cause harm, tea isn’t something that should be part of your dog’s routine. Some herbal teas may be safe in moderation, but it all depends on what’s inside the cup.

Is tea bad for dogs?

Tea that contains caffeine — such as black, green or white tea — is not safe for dogs. Caffeine affects dogs differently and even small amounts can lead to restlessness, a racing heart or tummy troubles. If a dog were to drink a strong brew, especially regularly or in large amounts, it could potentially become harmful. So while it might seem harmless to share, it's best to keep your usual cuppa out of paw’s reach.

Can dogs drink herbal tea?

Some herbal teas are safer than others and can even have gentle benefits for dogs — but they must be plain, caffeine-free and free from sweeteners or added oils. Chamomile tea, for instance, is sometimes used in very small amounts to help with anxiety or digestion. Peppermint and rooibos tea can also be soothing for the tummy, but should be given sparingly and only if your dog enjoys the taste. Always serve herbal tea cool, plain and in tiny amounts — and check with your vet if you’re ever unsure.

Can dogs have tea with milk?

Milk isn’t toxic to dogs, but many are lactose intolerant, which means milky tea can cause diarrhoea or an upset tummy. Traditional British tea with milk and sugar is a no-no for dogs — not just because of the caffeine, but also because the added sugar and dairy can be too rich. If your pup sneaks a few licks, it’s unlikely to cause major harm, but it’s not something that should be offered on purpose.

Is decaf tea safe for dogs?

Decaffeinated tea might seem like a good middle ground, but it’s still not ideal. Even decaf teas can contain trace amounts of caffeine and are often processed in ways that aren’t suited for canine digestion. Plus, they still lack nutritional value and don’t offer anything your dog truly needs. Fresh water remains the best and safest drink for dogs, paws down.

Can I share iced tea with my dog?

Iced tea may be refreshing for humans, but for dogs, it’s usually packed with caffeine, sugar or artificial sweeteners like xylitol — which is extremely toxic to dogs. Even unsweetened iced teas can contain ingredients that aren’t safe for your pup. When it’s warm outside, it’s much better to cool your dog with a bowl of fresh water or a homemade dog-safe frozen treat.

Can dogs have tea for anxiety?

Some gentle herbal teas like chamomile or valerian root have calming properties that might support dogs who are nervous or anxious — but they must be used carefully. The tea should be plain, cooled and given in very small amounts. It's not a replacement for proper behavioural support or vet advice, but in some cases, a little herbal tea can offer a soft moment of calm.

How should I offer tea to my dog if I do?

If your vet gives the all-clear and you’d like to try a safe herbal tea, offer just a teaspoon or two at first. Always let it cool completely, and never add milk, honey, sugar or lemon. Some pet owners freeze cooled herbal tea in an ice cube tray and let their dogs enjoy it as a lickable treat on warm days — but only using safe, approved ingredients.

Do dogs like the taste of tea?
Some do — especially if they’re curious and love to mimic their humans. Others might sniff it and walk away, unimpressed. Herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint tend to have a mild aroma that some dogs find soothing, while strong black teas are often too bitter for their liking. As with all things, it’s best to offer a small sample first (only if it’s safe) and see how your dog reacts.

Can dogs be allergic to tea?
Dogs can be sensitive to certain herbs, especially if they’ve never had them before. It’s not common, but always keep an eye out for signs like scratching, ear shaking, or tummy troubles after trying something new. If in doubt, it’s always safest to skip it and stick to tried-and-tested dog-safe options.

Are tea bags dangerous to dogs?
Yes, tea bags — especially ones that haven’t been used yet — can be dangerous. If a dog chews or swallows one, they might ingest caffeine or choke on the bag itself. If a tea bag disappears and your dog looks guilty, it’s a good idea to call the vet, just to be on the safe side. Always keep used and unused bags well out of reach.

What about tea biscuits or dunking treats?
Sharing your biscuit might feel like an act of love, but most human biscuits are high in sugar and fat, which aren’t great for pups. A tiny crumb of a plain biscuit might not hurt, but it’s not a habit to build. If you want to include your dog in tea time, offer them their own dog-friendly treat instead — something soft, wholesome and made just for them.

Can I make my dog a special doggy tea?
Yes! Some companies make dog-safe "teas" from herbs like dandelion root, rooibos or nettle, often mixed with ingredients to support hydration or digestion. These blends are caffeine-free, gentle and designed with your pup’s body in mind. You can also steep a weak chamomile tea at home and freeze it into lickable cubes as a calming summer treat.

Can tea help with bad breath in dogs?
Some herbal teas, like peppermint or parsley-infused brews, are thought to have breath-freshening properties. A few sips of cooled, plain peppermint tea might help ever so slightly — though nothing beats a proper dental routine or a good chew. Still, if your dog enjoys it and it’s safe, it might be a nice little ritual.

How much is too much tea for a dog?
For any kind of tea (even herbal), a few spoonfuls is plenty. Dogs don’t need tea in their diet, and their systems are much smaller than ours — even a small amount of caffeine can go a long way in their bodies. Think of it more like an occasional lick or a tiny teaspoon, rather than a full saucer or bowl.

A gentle reminder for dog lovers:

It’s always best to check ingredient lists carefully — especially if your tea has natural flavourings or hidden sweeteners. Xylitol, found in some sweet herbal teas, is extremely dangerous for dogs, even in small amounts. When in doubt, stick with water and keep your dog’s treats simple, wholesome and designed just for them.