A dog’s diet has to be kept strict enough to reduce harm to them, but they can eat some human foods and not have any health problems after doing so.
When it comes to drinking, you might wonder if they can enjoy a hot drink like tea with their owners, to switch up their usual bowl of water.
Unfortunately though, while a dog is a human’s best friend, giving them some of your daily cuppa is not a good idea.
Can my dog drink tea?
Vet charity PDSA advises that the consumption of tea for dogs can “quickly reach toxic levels in their systems.”
PDSA Vet Nurse Shauna Walsh said: “Drinking tea could cause symptoms like vomiting, restlessness, a high heart rate and in severe cases, coma or even death.
“Pets have no need for caffeine in their diets, so it’s safest to avoid giving them tea altogether. If your pet accidentally consumes tea, coffee, or any caffeinated item, contact your vet as soon as you can, and seek their advice.
“While decaf tea has less caffeine, it does still contain levels of it, and just like a regular cup of tea, is not ideal for pets.
“Adding milk doesn’t make tea any safer for pets. For many pets, milk alone could cause an upset stomach, so it’s also worth avoiding.
“Not forgetting, the calories in milk and the biscuit that remains from being dunked in tea, can add weight to our pets, even just the small amounts will add up over time.”
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Purina backs up Shauna’s point: “No, dogs can’t drink tea due to its caffeine content. Caffeine is toxic to dogs and can cause many health issues – even decaffeinated tea contains small amounts of caffeine so it’s still not recommended.
“When it comes to drinks for dogs, fresh water is always the best and safest option.”
It adds that even by adding milk to a cup of tea, you are not helping your dog: “Black tea contains caffeine, and milk can cause digestive upset in dogs.”
It warns dog owners that caffeine “can even be fatal in high dosages” as it “elevates a dog’s heart rate and can cause other major health issues as well.”
Giving your dog a smaller amount of caffeine still affects them as they are “more sensitive” to it than humans.
Can my dog drink herbal tea?
While “most herbal teas don’t contain caffeine”, it’s worth knowing that “many herbs can be toxic to dogs, and each blend can vary greatly in ingredients”, meaning this isn’t a safe option either.
Shauna adds: “For example, some herbal teas contain certain plants or additives that can upset a pet’s stomach or lead to more serious issues. To be safe, we always advise keeping the cuppas to yourself, no matter what tea you’re drinking.
“There are plenty of other pet-safe ways to provide a tasty comfort to your pet, without the risks associated with tea. When it comes to drinks for your pets, ensure they always have constant access to fresh, clean water, as that will keep them nicely hydrated.”
She suggests giving your dog “pet-safe treats” if you want them to enjoy something a bit different.
However, Purina says some herbal teas are okay “in moderation” but you'll need to check with your vet first.
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It explained: “Your dog can drink some herbal teas in moderation. Dogs can drink chamomile, ginger, echinacea, rooibos and peppermint tea, however, fresh water is a better and more suitable choice.
“Before offering any of these drinks to your pet, make sure to ask your vet if this is a good idea.”
Shauna reminds pet owners: “Do always remember treats should be 10% of your pet’s daily food allowance, so while you have your cuppa and a biscuit, your pet can have their daily treat allowance.”
What's your favourite thing to do with your dog by your side? Let us know in the comments.
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