Can Dogs Eat Caffeine?

Caffeine belongs to a class of chemicals called methylxanthines (the same class as theobromine, the toxin in chocolate). Dogs cannot process these chemicals as efficiently as humans can. When a dog ingests caffeine, it over-stimulates their central nervous system and heart, leading to a rapid and dangerous increase in heart rate and hyperactivity.

• Caffeine is present in many common household items. Be aware of:
• Coffee: Brewed coffee, beans, and especially used coffee grounds are all dangerous.
• Tea: Tea bags and brewed tea.
• Soda and Energy Drinks: These are often high in both caffeine and sugar.
• Diet Pills and Medications: Many over-the-counter and prescription medications contain caffeine.
• Chocolate: All chocolate contains some level of caffeine in addition to the more potent theobromine.
• Coffee grounds and tea bags are particularly dangerous because the caffeine is highly concentrated.

• Symptoms can appear within 30 minutes to an hour and can be severe. Seek veterinary help immediately if you notice:
• Extreme restlessness, hyperactivity, or agitation
• Rapid heart rate and panting
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Muscle tremors or seizures
• Elevated body temperature (hyperthermia)
• In severe cases, caffeine poisoning can lead to collapse and death.

This is a veterinary emergency. Contact your vet or an animal poison control center immediately. There is no antidote, so treatment involves inducing vomiting to decontaminate the stomach and providing supportive care (like IV fluids and heart monitoring) to manage the symptoms.

Caffeine is highly toxic to dogs. Ensure all coffee, tea, sodas, and medications are kept where your dog cannot reach them.