Can Dogs Drink Tea

The Short Answer: Most Tea Is Not Safe — Herbal Teas Depend on the Ingredients

Most tea is not safe for dogs. Black tea, green tea, white tea, and oolong tea all contain caffeine, which is toxic to dogs. The caffeine content in tea is lower than coffee but still sufficient to cause toxicity, particularly in small dogs. Herbal teas are caffeine-free but safety depends entirely on the specific herbs — some are safe, some are toxic. Never give your dog caffeinated tea of any kind.

Why Caffeinated Tea Is Not Safe for Dogs

1. Caffeine Toxicity

All true teas (black, green, white, oolong, pu-erh) are made from the Camellia sinensis plant and contain caffeine. Caffeine causes restlessness, rapid heart rate, muscle tremors, and seizures in dogs. While tea generally contains less caffeine than coffee, it is still sufficient to cause toxicity — especially in small dogs or if a dog drinks a significant amount.

Approximate caffeine content per 8 oz cup:

• Black tea — 40–70 mg caffeine
• Green tea — 20–45 mg caffeine
• White tea — 15–30 mg caffeine
• Oolong tea — 30–50 mg caffeine

2. Tea Bags — Concentrated Caffeine

Tea bags contain concentrated dried tea leaves with much higher caffeine content than brewed tea. A dog who chews on or swallows a tea bag is at serious risk of caffeine toxicity. Keep all tea bags out of reach.

3. Sweetened Tea — Additional Sugar Concerns

Sweetened iced tea and bottled tea contain significant added sugar. Some sugar-free tea products contain xylitol. Never give your dog sweetened tea.

Herbal Teas — Safety Depends on Ingredients

Herbal teas are caffeine-free but safety varies by herb:

• Chamomile tea — generally safe in small amounts, mild calming effect
• Peppermint tea — small amounts generally safe, but concentrated peppermint oil can cause digestive upset
• Ginger tea — small amounts safe, may help with nausea
• Rooibos tea — caffeine-free and generally safe in small amounts
• Pennyroyal tea — toxic to dogs, can cause liver failure
• Comfrey tea — toxic to dogs, causes liver damage
• Valerian tea — not recommended, can cause sedation

What If My Dog Drank Tea?

If caffeinated tea, contact your veterinarian. Provide the type of tea, amount consumed, and your dog's weight. If herbal tea, identify the specific herbs and check for toxic varieties. Contact animal poison control if uncertain.

Animal Poison Control: ASPCA (888) 426-4435 | Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661

Safe Drink Alternatives

👉 Stella & Chewy's Bountiful Bone Broth for Dogs — a dog-specific warm drink that is safe, nutritious, and satisfying. The proper warm beverage for dogs instead of tea.

👉 Virbac Rebound Recuperation Formula for Dogs — a dog-specific hydration formula. Supports healthy hydration without caffeine risks.

The Bottom Line

Most tea is not safe for dogs. All caffeinated teas contain caffeine that is toxic to dogs. Herbal teas are caffeine-free but safety depends on the specific herbs — chamomile and rooibos are generally safe while pennyroyal and comfrey are toxic. Fresh water and dog-specific bone broth are always the best drink choices for dogs.