Can dogs drink alcohol?
No. Alcohol is toxic to dogs. Drinks and foods containing alcohol can cause vomiting, wobbliness, breathing problems and tremors. Alcohol is absorbed quickly, and signs usually begin within 15–90 minutes, so act fast.
Updated:
Why
Alcohol (ethanol) is rapidly absorbed into the blood and depresses the nervous system. It is not only in drinks: it is also in liquor-filled sweets, raw rising bread dough, hand sanitiser and mouthwash. All animals are at risk.
Signs to watch for
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
- Wobbliness and loss of coordination
- Drowsiness, depression
- Difficulty breathing
- Tremors
- Signs usually start within 15–90 minutes
What to do
Contact your vet or a pet poison helpline immediately. Note what your dog drank or ate and roughly how much. Don't wait for signs: alcohol acts fast, and early treatment is key.
24-hour help by country →Questions and answers
Is a lick of beer okay?
No. Drinks and foods containing alcohol are toxic to dogs. Never offer alcohol, and call your vet if your dog drinks some.
Where else can a dog find alcohol at home?
In liquor-filled sweets, raw rising bread dough, hand sanitiser and mouthwash.
Related foods
All foods: What can dogs eat?Sources
- People Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Pets — ASPCA Animal Poison Control
- Alcohol Poisoning — VCA Animal Hospitals
- Bread Dough Toxicosis in Animals — Merck Veterinary Manual
- Poisonous foods for dogs — Blue Cross
General information from the sources below, not reviewed by a vet and not a substitute for veterinary advice. When in doubt, call your vet.
How kids practise this in PetPrep
In PetPrep a child looks after a realistic dog: meals at the right times, water, walks and care. Knowing what is safe to share is part of being ready for a real pet.