Can Dogs Have Herbal Tea? is more complex than it would appear at first glance. The decision depends on both the type and preparation method of herbal infusion. Caffeine consumption should be avoided as much as possible for canines’ health – any dose over five cups could even prove deadly!
Herbal teas typically don’t contain caffeine and are therefore safe for canines to drink in small doses, providing numerous advantages such as strengthening immunity, improving digestion and fresher breath.
Tea can also provide soothing benefits for dogs suffering from anxiety. One type of tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid which may have natural sedative properties. So if your pup’s worried about being left behind, some soothing chamomile tea could provide just what’s needed to relax them and reduce anxiety levels.
When making herbal tea for canines, make sure that milk and any sweeteners are avoided. Not only can dairy cause digestive issues for some dogs, but too much sugar intake may lead to obesity and diabetes in their system. Instead, opt for low-sugar herbal infusions like rooibos or peppermint tea for an ideal low-sugar beverage option.
Like humans, dogs should also avoid drinking hot tea that has been boiled to an unsafe room temperature to prevent burns and dehydration issues as well as health complications in pets. Instead, provide your furry friend with herbal tea that has been prepared in an environment-safe way.
If you want to give your dog herbal tea for testing purposes, be sure to start small and wait for it to cool before serving it. Also try diluting as much of the tea as possible with water so as to minimize any gastrointestinal upset and ensure maximum safety for everyone involved. As with all treats and diet changes for pets, moderation should always be paramount and any modifications must be consulted with a veterinarian beforehand.