Beer Drinking for Dogs
Dr. Jeff Nichol, DVM, IAABC Veterinary Behaviorist
Safe in Small Amounts, it can Damage the Health of a Trusting Dog
Question:
My 5-year-old male lab/shepherd cross “Q ” has picked up beer drinking. He sits next to me when I’m drinking a beer waiting until I give in and pour him some, which I do once in a while. It’s so funny, after he has a good drink he starts sneezing, I always laugh. Could a little beer now and then cause him any harm?
Dr. Nichol:
A little beer now and then won’t cause most of us any harm. A “little” for a 50 pound dog would be about 6 oz. (1/2 of a bottle or can). A lethal amount for the same dog would be seven beers. Dogs metabolize grain alcohol the same way we do. Signs of over indulgence are similar too. Like us, dogs can get addicted.
I doubt if Q will have a problem if he laps up a small amount of spilled beer from time to time. On the other hand, if you get caught up in the entertainment of having a drunken dog you will be responsible for damaging his health. Our dogs trust us implicitly. You understand the risks, but Q doesn’t. Be responsible with your special friend. Have a Happy New Year-just not too happy.
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About the author
Dr. Jeff Nichol, DVM, IAABC is a residency trained veterinary behaviorist whose practice is dedicated to the diagnosis and treatment of behavior disorders of dogs and cats. With extensive experience in general practice and behavior medicine, he works with pet parents to tailor practical, individualized treatment plans to improve the well-being of pets and their people.
Dr. Nichol regularly writes about the treatment of behavior problems, including anxiety, aggression, fear, separation, house soiling, and other common concerns in companion pets.
