Arabella Franco
Dogs should never drink beer, even a small amount can be toxic. Beer is at the top of the list of food or drink that is toxic to dogs. It can cause alcohol poisoning, with symptoms such as vomiting, disorientation, lack of coordination, lethargy, low blood sugar, low blood pressure, hypothermia, and seizures. If you suspect your dog has consumed beer, you should contact an emergency vet immediately. However, there are dog beers made specifically for dogs that are alcohol-free and healthy. These usually contain water, bone broth, herbs, vegetables, fruits, and pet-friendly nuts.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Should large dogs drink beer? | No |
| Is beer toxic to dogs? | Yes |
| Is beer poisonous to dogs? | Yes |
| Is beer bad for dogs? | Yes |
| What happens if a dog drinks beer? | Alcohol poisoning can occur in as little as 30 minutes after consumption. Lethargy, vomiting, poor coordination, diarrhoea, decreased breathing rate, low body temperature, low blood sugar, seizures, coma, and death are all possible symptoms. |
| What should I do if my dog drinks beer? | Seek veterinary advice immediately. |
| Is there dog-friendly beer? | Yes, dog beers are made without alcohol, hops, and other components not suitable for dogs. |
| Is dog beer safe for humans? | Yes |
What You'll Learn
Why beer is toxic to dogs
Beer is toxic to dogs because of the alcohol it contains. Ethanol (the intoxicating agent in beer, wine and liquor) and hops (used to brew beer) can cause alcohol intoxication in dogs. Even a small amount of alcohol can be dangerous for dogs, and they can develop alcohol poisoning very quickly.
Dogs are highly sensitive to the effects of alcohol. According to veterinarian Renee Schmid, it takes very little alcohol for poisoning to develop in animals. Even a few licks of beer can be enough for small dogs to appear drunk, which is a sign of poisoning.
Alcohol is absorbed faster and spreads more quickly through a dog's bloodstream than a human's. Dogs can experience almost immediate symptoms of intoxication, including confusion, lack of coordination, lethargy, decreased breathing rate, low body temperature, low blood sugar, tremors, and seizures. In severe cases, alcohol intoxication in dogs can cause organ failure and even death.
In addition to alcohol, beer may contain other ingredients that are toxic to dogs, such as chocolate, coffee, or spices. Therefore, it is important to keep beer and other alcoholic beverages out of the reach of dogs and never deliberately offer them as a treat.
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Signs of alcohol poisoning in dogs
Dogs should never drink beer, or any other alcoholic beverage. Even a small amount of alcohol can be dangerous for dogs, and they can quickly develop alcohol poisoning.
- Excessive salivation
- Frequent urination, which may include increased thirst
- Lack of coordination
- Loss of bodily control (ataxia)
- Excitement which changes to depression
- Difficulty breathing (dyspnea)
- Loss of consciousness
- Slow heart rate (bradycardia)
- Heart rhythm problems
- Vomiting or retching
- Disorientation and confusion
- Tremors and seizures
- Low body temperature (hypothermia)
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)
- Death
If you notice any of these symptoms, take your dog to a veterinarian or emergency clinic immediately. Do not try to treat alcohol poisoning at home. The prognosis for recovery from alcohol poisoning is excellent, provided the dog receives prompt veterinary treatment.
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What to do if your dog drinks beer
If your dog drinks beer, it is important to seek veterinary advice immediately. While the human body has evolved to process alcohol efficiently, a dog's body is not designed to metabolise alcohol in the same way. Even a small amount of alcohol may lead to symptoms of intoxication and alcohol poisoning can occur in as little as 30 minutes.
First, your vet will assess your dog's condition and ask for details such as the type of beer/alcohol percentage, the quantity consumed, your dog's medical history, how long ago the beer was consumed, and what specific symptoms you observed. Depending on the signs of alcohol toxicity shown, your vet will then prioritise stabilising your dog's condition.
To enhance recovery, your vet will remove as much alcohol as possible from your dog's system. This can be done using intravenous (IV) fluids to support hydration and trigger the body to expel alcohol more effectively. Your vet will also address any lingering alcohol toxicity signs and provide supportive care, including administering fluids and nutritional supplements, and ensuring your dog is as comfortable as possible.
If it has been less than 15 minutes since ingestion, a vet may induce vomiting to help remove the alcohol from your dog's digestive system. However, you should never try to treat alcohol poisoning at home and should always seek immediate veterinary assistance if your dog ingests any alcohol.
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Dog-friendly beer alternatives
While beer is toxic to dogs and should be avoided, there are several dog-friendly alternatives that you can share with your pup. These include:
- Dog beers – These are non-alcoholic and typically made from water and bone broth, and may include ingredients like vegetables, fruit, oats, barley, herbs, and dog-safe nuts. Some also contain glucosamine for joint health, or vitamin B for a shiny coat. Examples include Bowser Beer, Pet Winery BarkBrew, Beer Paws, and Good Boy Dog Beer.
- Dog-friendly breweries – Many breweries welcome dogs and offer them water bowls and treats. Some even have dog menus, dog-themed merchandise, and host events that support local animal charities. Examples include Pinellas Ale Works in Florida, Laughing Dog Brewery in Idaho, and Kinship Brewing in Iowa.
- Other drinks – In addition to dog beer, you can offer your dog water or bone broth.
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How to prevent your dog from drinking beer
Beer is toxic to dogs and can cause alcohol poisoning, so it's important to keep your dog from drinking it. Here are some tips to prevent your dog from drinking beer:
Put your dog in another room or their crate
If you're drinking beer, put your dog in another room or their crate until you've finished. This will prevent them from accessing your beer and reduce their risk of accidental ingestion.
Store your beer and alcohol safely
Keep alcoholic drinks stored away from your dog, such as in a refrigerator or on a high shelf that they can't reach. This will help prevent spills or your dog from knocking over bottles or cans.
Don't leave alcoholic drinks unattended
Dogs are curious and opportunistic, so never leave your beer unattended. Bring your drink with you if you leave the room, and always clean up after yourself to remove any traces of beer.
Use a lidded glass
Consider drinking your beer from a glass with a lid. This may sound silly, but it can be an effective way to prevent your dog from taking a sip when you're not looking.
Be vigilant when hosting guests
When you have guests over, pay close attention to your dog and the location of alcoholic drinks. It may be best to keep your dog in another room or their crate during parties or gatherings to reduce the risk of accidental ingestion.
Choose dog-friendly alternatives
If you want to share a drink with your dog, opt for dog-friendly "beers" that are specifically made for canines. These drinks are alcohol-free and often contain ingredients like bone broth, vegetables, and fruits, which can be a healthy treat for your pup. However, always offer these drinks in moderation and never as a replacement for fresh water.
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Frequently asked questions
No, dogs should never be allowed to drink beer. Even a small amount of beer can be toxic to dogs and cause alcohol poisoning.
Beer contains alcohol, which is toxic to dogs. Beer also contains hops, which can be poisonous to dogs and cause an elevated body temperature. Beer is also often carbonated, which can increase the risk of bloat in some breeds.
Dogs can appear confused, have difficulty walking and standing, and become more lethargic. They may also experience decreased breathing rates, low blood sugar, low body temperature, and abnormalities in the electrolytes. In more severe cases, seizures, coma, or even death are possible.
If your dog drinks beer, you should seek veterinary advice immediately. The vet will assess your dog's condition and may induce vomiting to help remove the alcohol from their system.
Yes, there are dog "beers" made specifically for dogs that are alcohol-free and made with ingredients such as bone broth, vegetables, and fruit.
