Is Coffee Bad for Dogs? 3 Health Risks of Coffee for Dogs

Coffee is bad for dogs, and pet owners should never give it to their furry friends. A cup of coffee contains a large amount of caffeine, which can lead to health issues for your pet, such as high blood pressure or an elevated heart rate. Even decaffeinated coffee is dangerous due to the trace amounts of caffeine.

Coffee grounds and beans are also hazardous as they contain a concentrated amount of caffeine. If your dog drank coffee or ate a bag of coffee beans, immediately consult your veterinarian; severe cases can lead to caffeine poisoning.

There are many ingredients in a cup of joe that can make it a life-threatening beverage for your pet. Coffee is dangerous for your dog’s health because it contains:

1. 1. Added sweeteners: A cup of coffee can contain added sugars; too much sugar in your dog’s diet can lead to weight gain and obesity. In addition, artificial sweeteners like xylitol are toxic and can lead to serious health problems for your pet.
2. 2. Caffeine: As a concentrated source of caffeine, coffee is dangerous for dogs. How caffeine affects your pet varies based on the size of your dog or your dog’s weight. Small dogs with a low body weight (like Chihuahuas) feel side effects from limited quantities, while larger breeds (like German shepherds) can tolerate a small amount of coffee without serious issues. Regardless of the dog breed, too much caffeine can lead to high blood pressure, high body temperature, gastrointestinal distress, and issues with your dog’s nervous system.
3. 3. Dairy ingredients: A common ingredient in coffee is milk or creamers, which can lead to an upset stomach. Many dogs have a hard time digesting dairy products, especially if they are lactose intolerant.

While one lick of coffee is unlikely to lead to caffeine poisoning, large amounts of caffeine in your dog’s diet can result in caffeine toxicity. Signs of toxicity include vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, and heart arrhythmia (an abnormal heart rhythm). If you notice any of these signs of caffeine poisoning in your dog, take your pet to a veterinarian or call a pet poison helpline.

Certain human foods and beverages can cause adverse reactions in canines, so always consult your veterinarian to determine whether it is safe to add these foods to your pet’s diet. This article is for educational and informational purposes and is not a substitute for medical or dietary advice.

Your dream of having a dog who understands words like “sit,” “stay,” “down,” and—crucially— “no” is just a MasterClass Annual Membership away. The only things you’ll need to train up a well-behaved pup are your laptop, a big bag of treats, and our exclusive instructional videos from superstar animal trainer Brandon McMillan.