While you might enjoy your cup of coffee every morning from freshly ground coffee, they are a big no-no for your dogs.
If you've always wanted to know the answer to 'can your dog eat coffee beans,' we're here to help.
In this guide, we’ll discuss everything you need to know in regards to why dogs can't eat coffee beans and what to do if they have. Responsible pet owners read on to find out more!
Are Coffee Beans Toxic For Dogs? (How Much Caffeine Is Too Much?)
Coffee beans are toxic for dogs as caffeine contains methylxanthine, which can cause toxicosis when ingested by pets.
If your dog eats coffee grounds, this substance can get into their blood stream and they could lose muscle control.
Any age or breed of dog can be affected, but depending on the size and age of the breed, some may be more susceptible than others.
Coffee beans are more toxic to most dogs that are older or have underlying problems. Small amounts of caffeine can be fatal for small dogs while they would not be for larger dogs.
For example, for small dogs such as Yorkies and Chihuahuas, as little as 0.1 ounces of coffee beans could be fatal.
For large dogs such as Retrievers and German Shepherds, 7.5 ounces of coffee beans or more would be fatal.
What Are The Symptoms Of Caffeine Poisoning In Dogs?
The symptoms that your dog may experience are highly dependent on the amount of caffeine that they've ingested.
For example, a couple of laps of brewed coffee would be unlikely to cause much harm to a medium-sized dog, but it could be harmful to a smaller dog.
If your dog has ingested coffee grounds or other high-caffeine food items, it could prove to be fatal. But how much coffee is too much and what symptoms should you look out for?
Symptoms will usually occur about one to two hours after ingestion. Some symptoms that your dog would experience include:
What To Do If Your Dog Ate Coffee Beans
If your dog has eaten coffee beans, here’s how to proceed:
- 1Even though it's normal to panic, it's crucial for you to stay calm.
- 2Make sure that your dog isn’t ingesting anything else that has caffeine in it.
- 3Note down everything that your dog has ingested and if you have the ingredients of these items, make sure that you’re noting these down as well.
- 4Call your veterinary clinic immediately. Make sure that you’re providing them with as much information as possible (weight, size, age, symptoms, etc.)
- 5Follow your vet’s instructions as they’re an expert in regards to the matter. Depending on the severity of the situation, they might ask you to bring your pet to the clinic immediately, or suggest suitable treatments for you to administer at home.
What Will The Caffeine Toxicity Treatment Be For Your Dog?
If your dog has ingested coffee beans, energy drinks, or diet pills, the recommended course of action is to bring your dog to the vet immediately so that your veterinarian can give your dog an injection to make them vomit.
The injection can only be administered when your dog is showing no or mild symptoms, so it’s important that you get your dog to the vet as quickly as possible.
If more than two hours have passed, your dog will likely be admitted into the clinic and administered activated charcoal.
This substance will help to absorb any caffeine in your dog’s guts and prevent it from getting into the bloodstream.
Your dog may also be placed on a drip to help excrete any remaining caffeine via their urine. A few blood samples will also be taken to check for any internal damage.
Certain medication may also be given to your dog to treat muscle tremors and seizures or to stabilize an irregular heartbeat.
To ensure that your dog is being provided with adequate treatment, you should be prepared to let your dog stay in the hospital for a couple of days.
If your dog is having mild symptoms, your vet might suggest suitable treatments for you to administer at home.
It is important, however, that you should never attempt to make your dog vomit at home without seeking veterinary advice.
Coffee Beans & Dogs FAQs
How long does caffeine stay in a dog’s system?
Caffeine can stay in a dog's system for about 24 to 48 hours. If your dog gets treatment in a timely manner, the likelihood of them surviving is high.
How much caffeine is in a coffee bean?
It depends on the coffee bean, but on average, there are about six milligrams of caffeine in a single coffee bean.
It does, however, depend on the variety. Arabica and Robusta coffee beans, for example, have higher caffeine in them.
Do dogs like the smell of coffee grounds?
It depends. Some dogs like the smell of coffee grounds, but some dogs are not a fan.
At times, coffee grounds have even been used as a dog repellent, with individuals sprinkling it over their garden or flower beds.
Can dogs drink coffee with milk?
Dogs should not be drinking coffee at all - whether with or without milk. Caffeine is toxic for dogs, and even drinking coffee with milk could make your dog very sick.
Conclusion
As seen from above, dogs should not be eating coffee beans as caffeine would not only make your dog incredibly ill, but it could also be fatal.
If your dog has accidentally ingested coffee beans or any amount of caffeine, it's essential to stay calm and call your veterinarian immediately so that your dog can get the treatment it needs.
