The Benefits of Green Tea for Dogs

Just like for humans, green tea is an immune booster for dogs. Despite its health benefits, you still have to be careful not to give your dog too much green tea because it could negatively affect his digestive system. It is also possible for your dog to die of an overdose of green tea.

  1. Immune Booster

    • Green tea and green tea extracts are so good for both you and your dog because they contain antioxidants. Antioxidants boost the immune system and help your dog stay healthy. Green tea is a form of preventive health care and a way to save money because the healthier your dog is, the less money you will have to spend on veterinary visits. Also, wouldn't you rather give your dog a healthy, happy life, regardless of the cost?

    Forms

    • Green tea products for dogs come in several forms. You can try to give your dog green tea that you brewed yourself, but you can also buy green tea products designed for dogs. Some dog food companies put green tea extracts into their food or you could buy green tea chewable tablets made for dogs. There are also green tea sprays for dogs, but they're designed to reduce canine odor, not improve their health.

    Cancer

    • Green tea might even have the power to protect your dog from cancer. Ageless Pet, a producer of green tea chewable tablets claims that studies have shown a correlation between everyday consumption of green tea and a decreased risk of stomach, esophageal and liver cancers. Also, a 2002 American Cancer Society study found success treating canine lymphoma with green tea extract and prednisone or quinolone.

    Other Benefits

    • According to Doggie News, Inba Pet Food, a Japanese dog food company, claims that they put green tea in their dog food so that your dogs urine and feces won't smell. Odorless dog poo would be fantastic, but before you go running out to buy green tea dog food so your furry friend's eliminations won't stink, remember that Japan probably doesn't have the same consumer protection laws about marketing claims the United States does.

    Warning

    • Remember that too much of anything can be unhealthy so consult your veterinarian about the right green tea dose for your dog before you start your dog on it. If your give your dog green tea you've brewed yourself make sure that it is caffeine free because caffeine is bad for dogs.