What happens if a dog eats Tea Tree Oil?

If a dog eats Tea Tree Oil, they may experience: Weakness, incoordination, tremors, drooling, vomiting, seizures, liver damage.

Not Safe

Not SafeVet ReviewedReviewed by Dr Alex Crow BVetMed MRCVSchemical

Not Safe for Dogs

Key warning: all concentrations — especially undiluted

Can Dogs Have Tea Tree Oil? No — Highly Toxic

This food is NOT safe for dogs. Keep it away from your pet.

Tea tree oil is highly toxic to dogs. Even small amounts applied to skin can cause serious neurological symptoms and liver damage.

Search another food

Warning Signs & Symptoms

Weakness, incoordination, tremors, drooling, vomiting, seizures, liver damage.

If Your Dog Ate This

If skin contact wash area thoroughly with dish soap. If ingested call vet immediately. Do not induce vomiting.

What to Avoid

all concentrations — especially undiluted

Preparation & Serving

Never apply tea tree oil to dogs. Keep all essential oil products in locked storage away from dogs.

Safer Alternatives

Consult vet for pet-safe alternatives for skin conditions

Did you know?

Tea tree oil is 1,000 times more concentrated than what occurs naturally in the tea tree plant — even products labeled as diluted can contain concentrations toxic to dogs if applied to skin or licked.

Portions & nutrition

Toxic dose (per kg body weight): As little as 1.5ml per kg of 100% concentration causes toxicity — skin absorption is also dangerous
Calories (per 100g): 0
Safe frequency: Never

Source

Source: ASPCA

What You Need to Know

Tea tree oil is often used in human skin products and dog shampoos but is not safe in concentrated form. Never use undiluted tea tree oil on or around dogs. Even low concentrations can cause harm.

Tea Tree Oil Variations

Tea Tree Oil DogsNot Safe

Not sure what to do next? Read our emergency guide What to Do If Your Dog Eats Something Toxic

Want to know what other dangers are hiding in your home?

Take the 60-second kitchen safety assessment to find out your dog's risk score.

Take the safety assessment

If Your Dog Ate This — Act Now

Related guides & hubs

Browse the food databaseSearch foods and browse categories Browse all dog health guidesNutrition, safety, insurance, and more Emergency guide: what to do nextStep-by-step actions for the next 60 minutes Dangerous foods dogs cannot eatA complete toxic foods list Best online vet servicesTelehealth options when you need answers fast

Frequently asked questions

Is Tea Tree Oil safe for dogs?: No, Tea Tree Oil is not safe for dogs. Tea tree oil is highly toxic to dogs. Even small amounts applied to skin can cause serious neurological symptoms and liver damage.
What happens if a dog eats Tea Tree Oil?: If a dog eats Tea Tree Oil, they may experience: Weakness, incoordination, tremors, drooling, vomiting, seizures, liver damage.
How much Tea Tree Oil can a dog eat?: Tea tree oil is often used in human skin products and dog shampoos but is not safe in concentrated form. Never use undiluted tea tree oil on or around dogs. Even low concentrations can cause harm.

Stay in the loop

Get new food safety guides, vet tips, and alerts delivered to your inbox.

Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a licensed veterinarian before making dietary changes for your pet.