Can Dogs Drink Beer?

Are you trying to get your dog drunk so you can laugh at their tipsy behavior? Or maybe you’re looking for a beer-chugging teammate with a big belly?

Spoiler alert: neither is going to happen.

We get it. When the boys are over to watch a big game and the beers are flowing, you might look at your dog and feel like sharing the fun. But don’t. Beer, or any form of alcohol, is one of the most toxic things humans consume, and it’s even worse for dogs.

The ethanol (grain alcohol) produced during fermentation is what gives beer its buzz. But while your body can handle a few bottles because of your size, even a small amount can overwhelm your dog’s system. Their organs are much smaller and more sensitive, and it takes very little alcohol for poisoning to occur.

What if My Dog Took a Sip of Beer?

Even a sip can be dangerous. A lick of spilled beer on the floor might seem harmless, but for dogs, it can lead to alcohol poisoning.

After just a little, your dog may appear confused or unsteady. They might stumble, struggle to stand, or seem unusually tired (kind of like you after that extra shot your friend guilted you into).

Other symptoms of alcohol poisoning include vomiting, slowed heart rate, low blood pressure, high body temperature, excessive panting, tremors, seizures, and in severe cases, organ failure or death.

Is There a Dog-Safe Beer?

Surprisingly, yes. There are dog-safe beers on the market made from unsalted beef bone broth, which provides nutrients and hydration without any alcohol.

You can even make a simple version at home by blending bone broth with fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, or blueberries. Just make sure there are no added sugars, preservatives, or artificial flavorings.

My Dog Licked Beer Off the Floor - What Should I Do?

If you’re unsure how much your dog consumed, it’s best to call or visit your vet right away. If your dog only had a small lick and is not showing symptoms like wobbling, vomiting, or excessive tiredness, monitor them closely for 24 hours.

To help prevent it from happening again, try the following:

Can Dogs Drink Alcohol?

No, alcohol is extremely toxic to dogs. In addition, foods or syrups made with alcohol can also cause harm. Both ethanol (the intoxicating agent) and hops used in brewing are highly toxic to dogs.

In severe cases, alcohol ingestion can lead to seizures, respiratory failure, or death.

A cold beer might be your way to unwind, but for your dog, it’s a recipe for disaster. Keep alcoholic drinks far away from your pup, and if you really want to toast together, grab a dog-safe beer instead. Your furry friend will enjoy the bonding moment without the risk.

More About Spot Pet Insurance

Owning a pet can be tough at times. You need to constantly be aware of what and how much goes into their mouths. Some things you can control and others you may not be able to. Sometimes unwanted foods can cause severe reactions in your dog and even require surgery for treatment. The bills can put a severe dent in your savings.

However, with pet health insurance, you can get reimbursed up to 90% of the eligible veterinary costs.

Dog Insurance can help provide financial assistance for eligible veterinary care in case of unexpected accidents, illnesses, or injuries. Our plans can help pet parents manage the eligible costs of covered veterinary care and help ensure that their pets can receive the best treatment possible. Here are some ways that Spot pet insurance plans can help:

To learn more about Spot Plans or to get a free quote, click here.