Is Caffeine Toxic to Dogs? Coffee, Tea and Energy Drinks
The smell of coffee may be inviting, but caffeine is a stimulant dogs cannot handle well. Pets that raid trash cans or counters for coffee grounds, used tea bags or energy drinks can become seriously ill.
Why caffeine is toxic
Caffeine belongs to the same family as theobromine, the toxin in chocolate. Dogs metabolize caffeine slowly, so it stays active in the body. It stimulates the central nervous system and heart, increasing heart rate and blood pressure, and can cause seizures and dangerous arrhythmias. See also chocolate toxicity.
How much is dangerous?
Veterinary references suggest that signs can appear at around 10 to 20 milligrams of caffeine per kilogram of body weight, with severe signs at 40 to 60 milligrams per kilogram and higher. These are approximate, and sensitive dogs can show signs at lower doses. A single cup of coffee contains roughly 80 to 100 milligrams, so a small dog that drinks a cup could be at risk. Concentrated sources are riskier.
Sources of caffeine
- Coffee grounds and beans, including chocolate-covered coffee beans
- Brewed coffee and espresso
- Tea and tea bags, with caffeine content varying by type
- Energy drinks and shots
- Cola and some sodas
- Caffeine pills and diet pills
- Pre-workout powders and some supplements
- Some medications and pain relievers that contain caffeine
- Chocolate, which contains both caffeine and theobromine
Signs of poisoning
- Restlessness and hyperactivity
- Panting and increased thirst
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Rapid or abnormal heartbeat
- Elevated body temperature
- Tremors and muscle rigidity
- Seizures
- Collapse
Signs usually appear within thirty minutes to two hours and can last many hours.
What to do
- Remove the source and estimate how much was eaten or drunk.
- Call your vet, an emergency clinic or a pet poison helpline.
- Provide the product name, amount, time and your dog's weight.
- Follow instructions. Your vet may induce vomiting if recent, give activated charcoal, provide fluids and monitor the heart.
- Do not induce vomiting at home unless you are told to.
See what to do if your dog is poisoned.
Treatment
Treatment is supportive and includes decontamination, fluids, medications to control heart rate, seizures and anxiety and monitoring. Most dogs recover if treated promptly.
Prevention
- Keep coffee, tea and energy drinks out of reach.
- Dispose of coffee grounds and tea bags in sealed bins.
- Store pills and supplements in closed cupboards.
- Never share caffeinated drinks.
- Warn visitors.
Other hazards
Drinks may also contain alcohol or xylitol. See alcohol and dogs and xylitol.
Caffeine in unexpected places
Beyond drinks, caffeine appears in some chewing gums, mints, protein bars, pain relievers and weight-loss products. Chocolate-covered coffee beans combine two stimulants and can be especially dangerous. If your dog eats something containing coffee, read the label for other ingredients that might also be harmful, such as xylitol or raisins, and tell your vet about every one.
Used grounds and pods
Used coffee grounds are still highly concentrated, since extracting coffee for drinking leaves plenty behind. Coffee pods can contain grounds and plastic or foil that may cause a blockage. Dispose of used pods in a lidded bin, and keep the compost heap fenced. Hungry dogs are good at finding discarded items in the early morning.
Why recovery can take time
Dogs clear caffeine slowly, and some of it is reabsorbed from the bladder. Your vet may take your dog out frequently to urinate, or place a catheter, to help clear it. Expect your dog to be monitored for several hours, and keep it calm at home afterward, with fresh water and a light meal once approved.
The takeaway
Caffeine is dangerous to dogs. Keep it away, and call for help if your dog gets into it.
Frequently asked questions
Can dogs have coffee?
No. Even small amounts of coffee can upset a small dog, and larger amounts can be dangerous.
Which products have the most caffeine?
Coffee beans and grounds, energy drinks, caffeine pills and some supplements.
Is decaf safe?
It contains less, but still some, so avoid it.
What should I do if my dog ate coffee grounds?
Contact your vet or a poison helpline with the amount and your dog's weight.
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.