Can Dogs Drink Chamomile Tea

The Short Answer: Plain Chamomile Tea Is Generally Safe in Small Amounts

Plain, unsweetened chamomile tea is generally safe for dogs in small amounts and is one of the few herbal teas that is actually beneficial for dogs. Chamomile has mild anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and calming properties that can help with digestive upset, anxiety, and skin irritation. However, chamomile should be given in moderation, and sweetened or flavored chamomile tea products are not appropriate for dogs.

Benefits of Chamomile for Dogs

1. Digestive Support

Chamomile has antispasmodic properties that help relax the smooth muscles of the digestive tract. It can help relieve gas, bloating, stomach cramps, and mild digestive upset in dogs. Plain chamomile tea is sometimes recommended by veterinarians as a gentle digestive aid.

2. Mild Calming Effect

Chamomile contains apigenin, a flavonoid with mild anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) properties. A small amount of chamomile tea may help calm mildly anxious dogs during stressful situations like thunderstorms or travel. The effect is gentle and not sedating.

3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Chamomile has mild anti-inflammatory properties that may help with minor inflammation. It is also used topically — cooled chamomile tea can be applied to irritated skin, hot spots, or itchy areas as a gentle soothing rinse.

Cautions

1. Moderation — Large Amounts Can Cause Vomiting

While chamomile is generally safe, large amounts can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. Give only small amounts — a few tablespoons of cooled, diluted chamomile tea for small dogs, up to a quarter cup for large dogs.

2. Ragweed Allergy Cross-Reactivity

Chamomile is in the Asteraceae family, which includes ragweed. Dogs with ragweed allergies may have cross-reactive sensitivity to chamomile. Introduce slowly and monitor for allergic reactions.

3. Sweetened Chamomile Tea — Not Safe

Chamomile tea with honey, sugar, or artificial sweeteners is not appropriate for dogs. Always use plain, unsweetened chamomile tea only. Check for xylitol in any pre-made chamomile tea products.

4. Pregnancy

Chamomile has mild uterine-stimulating properties. Avoid giving chamomile tea to pregnant dogs.

How to Give Chamomile Tea to Dogs

• Brew plain chamomile tea and allow to cool completely
• Dilute with water — use half tea, half water
• Small dogs — 1–2 tablespoons occasionally
• Medium dogs — 2–4 tablespoons occasionally
• Large dogs — up to ¼ cup occasionally
• No honey, sugar, or sweeteners

Safe Drink Alternatives

👉 Stella & Chewy's Bountiful Bone Broth for Dogs — a dog-specific warm drink that is nutritious and satisfying. A great everyday warm beverage for dogs.

👉 NaturVet Digestive Enzymes with Probiotics & Prebiotics for Dogs — provides digestive support similar to chamomile in a controlled, dog-specific dose. Ideal for dogs with regular digestive sensitivity.

The Bottom Line

Plain, unsweetened chamomile tea is generally safe for dogs in small amounts and can provide genuine digestive and calming benefits. Always use plain, cooled, diluted chamomile tea with no sweeteners. Avoid for pregnant dogs and introduce slowly for dogs with ragweed allergies. For regular digestive support, dog-specific probiotic supplements are a more reliable option.