Is Alcohol Toxic to Dogs? Beer, Wine and Spirits

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

A dog lapping from a spilled drink might look funny, but it is a genuine emergency. Dogs are much smaller than people and are far more sensitive to the effects of ethanol. The consequences can be severe and rapid.

Why alcohol is dangerous to dogs

Ethanol is absorbed quickly from the stomach and intestines. In dogs, it depresses the central nervous system and causes a drop in body temperature, blood sugar and blood pressure. Dogs have little tolerance, so doses that would barely affect a person can seriously intoxicate a small dog. Extremely high levels can slow breathing, trigger seizures, cause coma and result in death.

How much is dangerous?

Reports suggest that around 5 to 8 millilitres of pure ethanol per kilogram can be lethal, and effects begin well below that. A small dog could become dangerously intoxicated from a few mouthfuls of beer or a sip of a strong cocktail. Do not wait to see.

Hidden sources

• Beer, wine and spirits, including leftovers in glasses
• Cocktails and mixed drinks, often with sweeteners, fruit or xylitol. See xylitol
• Desserts and sauces made with alcohol, such as rum cake, tiramisu and some marinades
• Raw bread dough, where yeast ferments sugars into ethanol. See raw bread dough
• Fermenting fruit, including windfall apples and plums
• Hand sanitizer, mouthwash and perfumes that contain ethanol
• Medications and tinctures
• Compost heaps with rotting fruit

Signs of alcohol poisoning

• Staggering, disorientation and wobbliness
• Vomiting and drooling
• Lethargy or excitement
• Panting or slow breathing
• Low body temperature, shivering
• Tremors or seizures
• Collapse or coma

Signs usually begin within thirty to sixty minutes.

What to do

1. Remove your dog from the source, and check how much was consumed.
2. Call your vet, an emergency clinic or a pet poison helpline immediately.
3. Tell them what your dog drank, the amount, the time and your dog's weight.
4. Do not induce vomiting at home, because alcohol is absorbed quickly and vomiting can lead to aspiration if your dog is drowsy.
5. Keep your dog warm while you travel to the vet.

See our guide to what to do if your dog is poisoned.

Treatment

Vets may give intravenous fluids, warming, glucose, anti-nausea medications and oxygen or ventilation if breathing is affected. Most dogs recover with prompt care, but severe cases can be fatal.

Prevention

• Never leave drinks unattended where dogs can reach them.
• Empty glasses at parties promptly.
• Keep alcohol-containing products in closed cupboards.
• Secure bread dough while it proofs.
• Warn guests, especially children.
• Never give alcohol "for fun".

Special risks for puppies and small dogs

Puppies and toy breeds have very little body mass and often little fat to buffer the effects. They can drop their blood sugar and body temperature quickly, so even a lick of a strong drink needs a call to the vet. Keep party cups and glasses off low tables, and sweep up spilled drinks right away, because dogs are attracted to sweet, sugary liquids.

Aftercare

After treatment, your dog may be sleepy and unsteady for a day. Offer small amounts of water and a bland meal when your vet says it is safe. Watch for vomiting, tremors or unusual behavior, and keep your dog calm in a quiet, warm place until fully recovered. Report any lingering signs to your vet.

The takeaway

Alcohol is a real danger to dogs. Keep it out of reach, and act immediately if your dog gets into it. See also caffeine toxicity.

This article is general educational information, not veterinary advice. Every dog is different. If your dog is unwell, or you are unsure about a symptom, diet change or medication, contact your veterinarian.