Dogs lack the ability to metabolize alcohol through their kidneys. When a dog ingests alcohol, it quickly enters a state of intoxication similar to that of humans, exhibiting symptoms such as vomiting, staggering, and an inability to focus. Additional symptoms may include:
- Loss of coordination
- Excessive drooling
- Rapid heartbeat
- Drop in body temperature
- Low blood sugar
- Weakness
- Coma
Once ethanol (the alcohol) enters a dog’s system, the body attempts to break it down by mobilizing all available resources. This leads to an initial increase in heart rate, followed by a drop in body temperature and blood sugar. Eventually, the dog’s breathing rate slows dramatically, which can lead to death due to respiratory failure.
Unlike humans, who often die from aspirating vomit after heavy drinking, 99% of dogs that ingest alcohol die from respiratory failure.
The key takeaway is that after a dog ingests alcohol, the critical window for treatment is within 20 to 40 minutes. The dog should be immediately taken to the vet, and vomiting should not be induced at home. After this window, the alcohol will have been fully absorbed by the dog’s system.
Even if the dog survives, the process of metabolizing the alcohol may leave severe long-term effects such as kidney failure, liver failure, and heart failure.
Spirits
Whether it’s whisky, vodka, or any other strong liquor, these beverages are highly toxic to dogs. The primary danger is the alcohol content.
Wine
Though wine has a lower alcohol content, it presents an additional danger to dogs due to the grapes used in its production. Grapes, which may seem harmless to humans, are poisonous to dogs.
Beer
Beer has a relatively low alcohol content, but it poses a double threat to dogs. Not only does it contain alcohol, but most dogs are also allergic to hops. Although the reason behind this allergy is unclear, the combination of alcohol and hops is enough to be lethal to dogs.
