Is Chamomile Tea Safe for Dogs?
If you’ve ever wondered whether your dog can safely enjoy chamomile tea, you’re not alone. Many pet owners seek natural remedies to help soothe their dogs’ anxiety or digestive issues. Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) stands out as a popular herbal supplement with a long history of use in both humans and pets. But how safe is it for your canine companion?
What Is Chamomile and How Is It Used in Dogs?
Chamomile is a daisy-like plant known for its calming properties. In veterinary practice, it’s used as a sedative, anti-inflammatory, and muscle relaxant. You’ll find chamomile in various forms: liquid, powder, capsule, cream, salve, ointment—and yes, as tea. For dogs, chamomile can be administered:
- Orally (teas, tinctures, supplements)
- Topically (compresses, rinses)
It helps with mild anxiety (think separation stress or fear of storms), soothes upset stomachs by relaxing abdominal muscles, and can calm itchy skin thanks to its antimicrobial effects. Some owners even use cooled chamomile tea as a gentle rinse for irritated eyes or skin.
The Benefits of Chamomile Tea for Dogs
The main benefits of chamomile in dogs include:
- Calming anxious or stressed pets
- Easing digestive upsets
- Soothing skin irritations
- Supporting digestion and relieving mild inflammation
This gentle herb works by binding to GABA receptors in the brain—helping block anxiety signals. The compound apigenin is thought to be responsible for these calming effects.
Dosing and Safety Considerations
While chamomile is considered safe when used properly, there are important precautions:
- Always use caffeine-free, lightly brewed tea.
- Let the tea cool completely before offering it to your dog.
- Start with very small amounts—too much can cause problems.
Puppies, pregnant or lactating dogs, those with allergies (especially to daisies or ragweed), or pets on certain medications should only receive chamomile under direct veterinary supervision. Cats are more sensitive to chamomile’s effects than dogs.
Pitfalls: When Chamomile Can Be Harmful
No herbal remedy is without risks. Here’s what you need to watch out for:
- If given in large amounts or over long periods, chamomile can become toxic. Symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, loss of appetite (anorexia), skin irritation (contact dermatitis), depression or lethargy, nosebleeds, and bleeding tendencies.
- Pets allergic to ragweed or daisies should avoid chamomile entirely—it can trigger severe allergic reactions such as swelling around the face or irregular breathing.
The toxic principles—volatile oils like bisabolol and chamazulene—are found in higher concentrations if dosing isn’t carefully controlled. Always measure doses precisely; never double up if you miss a dose.
Treating Chamomile Toxicity
If you suspect your dog has ingested too much chamomile or is reacting badly:
- Contact your veterinarian immediately.
- Treatment may include decontamination (inducing vomiting), activated charcoal administration, fluid therapy, and supportive care.
The good news? With prompt veterinary intervention, recovery prospects are excellent. The average treatment cost for poisoning is about $500.
The Right Way to Offer Chamomile Tea to Dogs
- Brew the tea lightly using only pure dried chamomile flowers—never blends containing caffeine or other herbs unless cleared by your vet.
- Cool the tea completely before serving; lukewarm liquids can burn sensitive mouths.
- Offer only small sips at first; monitor closely for any adverse reactions like vomiting or diarrhea.
If using topically (for skin irritation), steep the flowers in hot water then let cool before applying as a rinse or compress. For eye rinses, mix cooled tea with sterile saline solution.
Avoid Human Chamomile Teas for Dogs
You might be tempted to share your own cup of chamomile tea with your pet—but don’t! Human teas often have uncertain dosages and may contain additives that aren’t safe for dogs. Instead, choose products formulated specifically for pets where possible; they offer standardized dosing and better safety assurance.
Cautions About Herbal Teas and Caffeine
- Caffeinated teas are toxic to dogs. Even small amounts of caffeine can trigger hyperactivity, seizures, tremors, elevated heart rate—and sometimes life-threatening complications like vomiting and diarrhea.
If you’re exploring other herbal teas for your dog (like peppermint or rooibos), stick with caffeine-free options and always consult your veterinarian first.
The Bottom Line: Chamomile Tea Can Be Safe—With Careful Use
If you’re looking for a gentle way to help calm an anxious dog or ease minor tummy troubles naturally,chamomile tea can be a helpful tool when used cautiously and under veterinary guidance. Start slow; watch closely; always prioritize safety over convenience. And remember—just because something’s natural doesn’t mean it’s risk-free!
