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Is tea tree oil toxic to dogs? My dog is throwing up and has diarrhea.

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed | Male | unneutered | 4 years and 7 months old | 13 lbs

my dog licked 100% tea tree oil off of my face last night, since this morning he’s thrown up twice and had diarrhea. What should I so?

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Destini R. Holloway, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on August 6th, 2018

Poor guy. Tea tree oil is a pretty nasty irritant to the stomach when ingested. You can try giving him a bland diet of boiled plain chicken and rice or cottage cheese for a few days, along with 1-2 tsp's of canned pumpkin (not the pie filling). I would also give him some non-flavored Pedialyte diluted with water to help prevent dehydration. If he is still having a hard time after another 24 hrs, then it is best to take him to your vet for stronger medication to help stop the nausea and treat his diarrhea with antibiotics. Best of luck with Milo and I hope he feels better soon! Take care.

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    Answered By Laura Johnson VMD

    Veterinarian

    Published on August 6th, 2018

    Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I understand your worry but if Milo is eating, acting normal and isn't drooling or vomiting I would just watch him. There are many reasons for him tummy to be rumbling that has nothing to do with the tea tree oil. Though tea tree oil is toxic to animals so when you use it I wouldn't let him get any. Good luck!

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