Green Tea Extract

Active
Good
Moderate nutritional value

Last updated: January 25, 2026

Table of Contents

Quick Summary

Green Tea Extract Concentrated extract from green tea leaves (Camellia sinensis), standardized for catechins and EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate).

Category
Active
Common In
Joint supplements, calming treats, specialty formulas
Also Known As
green tea polyphenols, EGCG, green tea catechins, camellia sinensis
Watts Rating
Good ✓

What It Is

Concentrated extract from green tea leaves (Camellia sinensis), standardized for catechins and EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate).

Compare to Similar Ingredients

Why It's Used in Dog Products

Manufacturers include green tea extract in dog food, treats, and supplements for several reasons:

Quality Considerations

When evaluating green tea extract in dog products, it's important to understand clinical evidence, appropriate dosing, and targeted health benefits. This ingredient's quality and appropriateness can vary significantly based on sourcing, processing, and the specific formula it's used in.

Quality Note

Highly concentrated source of beneficial polyphenols. Should be decaffeinated for pet safety. Quality indicated by standardization to catechins (typically 50-98%) and EGCG content. Water extraction is gentler; alcohol extraction may be more concentrated. Excessive amounts can cause liver stress—dosage matters.

Potential Concerns

While green tea extract can be appropriate in dog nutrition, pet owners should be aware of efficacy, quality of source material, and potential interactions with medications. Individual dogs may respond differently to the same ingredient based on their health status, age, and sensitivities.

Watts' Take

Powerful antioxidant when properly standardized and decaffeinated. EGCG research is compelling for cellular health and metabolism. Must be used at appropriate doses—more is not better with green tea extract. Look for decaffeinated, standardized extracts in well-formulated products.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is green tea extract safe for dogs?

Yes, green tea extract is safe for dogs when used appropriately in properly formulated dog food. As with any ingredient, individual dogs may have sensitivities, so monitor for any adverse reactions when first introducing products containing this ingredient.

What does green tea extract do in dog products?

Concentrated extract from green tea leaves (Camellia sinensis), standardized for catechins and EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate). Dog food manufacturers include this ingredient to provide concentrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory support and support healthy weight management and metabolism.

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