What Are the Dangers of Alcohol to Dogs?

Although responsible pet owners do their best to keep curious noses out of trouble, dogs can be exposed to the dangers of alcohol poisoning accidentally or through unconventional means. Exposure to alcohol when ingested or absorbed through the skin can cause a pet serious physical harm. Most dogs receive an excellent prognosis for recovery when their owners seek immediate veterinary assistance.

  1. Excitement and Depression

    • Having ingested or absorbed alcohol through their skin, a dog's first reaction may be one of excitement. He may whine in excess and seem unable to settle before depression sets in. Depression of the central nervous system is characterized by drowsiness, a lack of coordination and the loss of consciousness, according to PetMD. This will occur between 15 and 30 minutes after a dog's ingestion or exposure to alcohol, but may take up to two hours to occur if the dog's stomach is full at the time of ingestion. Blood tests may be performed to determine the type of alcohol ingested.

    Body Function Abnormalities

    • Most dogs will vomit to rid their bodies of undesirable substances. A dog suffering from alcohol poisoning may vomit excessively due to the substance's irritating effect on the dog's gastric mucosa, according to the Canadian Veterinary Journal. Continued retching may cause dehydration. Dehydrated dogs appear extremely thirsty and in severe cases, may require intravenous fluids. Coordination issues often occur and the dog may be unable to stand, or may stagger as he attempts to move forward. Dogs also may lose control of their bladder or bowels as intoxication progresses.

    Body Temperature Irregularities

    • Certain ingredients found in alcohol, such as hops, can cause a dog's body temperature to skyrocket to dangerous levels, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. The dog's symptoms may include restlessness, excessive panting and muscle tremors or even seizures. Veterinary treatment is necessary to preserve the life of these severely affected dogs. Hypothermia, also known as low body temperature, can be a result of alcohol exposure. Dogs with hypothermia exhibit an irregular heartbeat, breathing abnormalities and a lack of awareness. Severe hypothermia may result in a coma.

    Preventing Poisoning

    • Veterinary professionals agree that the best course of treatment is prevention. Responsible owners can keep their pets safe by storing alcoholic beverages in a secure location where curious noses can't access them. Careful attention to product labels can prevent alcohol-based pesticide products from being absorbed through the dog's skin. Yeast dough, which is a prime culprit in many canine alcohol poisonings, should always be kept out of a dog's reach, according to the ASPCA.