Why Dogs Should Never Drink Wine
Many pet owners love sharing experiences with their dogs, but offering wine is never safe. Wine contains alcohol and grapes, both of which are highly toxic to dogs—even in small amounts.
The Dangers of Alcohol for Dogs
Dogs process alcohol much less efficiently than humans. Their livers can’t break down ethanol quickly, and their lower body weight means a tiny dose can have a huge impact. Even a small sip of wine can lead to alcohol poisoning.
- Alcohol toxicity symptoms may appear within minutes to an hour after ingestion.
- As little as 5.5–7.9 grams per kilogram of pure ethanol can be lethal.
Clinical signs of alcohol poisoning in dogs include:
- Vomiting and diarrhea
- Lethargy or depression
- Weakness, trouble walking or standing
- Drooling or excessive salivation
- Disorientation, restlessness
- Muscle tremors
- Slowed breathing rate
- Low heart rate and blood pressure
- Hypothermia (low body temperature)
- Hypoglycemia (dangerously low blood sugar), which may cause seizures
- Unconsciousness, coma, or death in severe cases
The severity depends on the amount ingested, the dog’s size and health, the type of alcohol, and how quickly treatment starts.
The Risk from Grapes in Wine
Apart from alcohol, wine contains grapes. Grapes are known to be toxic to some dogs and can cause acute kidney failure. The exact amount needed for toxicity varies—some dogs get sick from just a few grapes while others seem unaffected—but there’s no safe threshold.
- Toxicity symptoms overlap with those from alcohol: vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, decreased urination.
If Your Dog Drinks Wine: What To Do Next?
If you suspect your dog has consumed any amount of wine or other alcoholic beverage:
- Contact your veterinarian or an animal poison helpline immediately.
- If ingestion was recent and your dog isn’t showing neurological symptoms (like sedation or incoordination), your vet may induce vomiting.
Treatment options may include:
- Inducing vomiting (if safe)
- Administering activated charcoal to bind toxins in the stomach
- IV fluids for hydration and toxin elimination
- Monitoring vital functions (blood glucose, temperature, heart/respiratory rates)
If your dog is already lethargic or unsteady on their feet, do not try to make them vomit at home—this increases the risk of aspiration pneumonia. Supportive care under veterinary supervision is safest.
Prevention Tips: Keeping Dogs Safe Around Alcohol
- Keep all alcoholic beverages out of reach—never offer drinks to pets.
- Clean up spills right away so curious noses don’t find them later.
- If hosting guests or parties, remind everyone not to give drinks to pets.
You should also watch out for other household products containing alcohol: mouthwash, hand sanitizers, syrups, raw bread dough—all pose similar risks if ingested by dogs.
Sneaky Signs: When You’re Not Sure If Your Dog Drank Wine
If you’re unsure but notice symptoms like disorientation, vomiting, drooling, weakness, or unusual sleepiness—get veterinary help fast. Prompt care usually leads to full recovery from minor exposures; delays can be fatal if toxicity is severe.
Paws-Off Alternatives: Including Your Dog Safely in Celebrations
If you want your dog to join the fun during celebrations or gatherings, choose dog-safe alternatives instead of wine. Special non-alcoholic "dog beers" made from water, bone broth, and vegetables are available—they don’t contain grapes or alcohol and let your pet feel included without risk.
