According to Wikipedia, An alcoholic beverage is a drink that contains ethanol, a type of alcohol that acts as a drug and is produced by the fermentation of grains, fruits, or other sources of sugar. The consumption of alcoholic drinks, often referred to as “drinking”, plays an important social role in many cultures.

In purely scientific terms, alcohol is the name for a whole range of molecules that are formed when oxygen and hydrogen atoms bind with an atom of carbon.  

When you drink alcohol, ethanol molecules are absorbed into your blood and, being small, they travel to virtually all parts of your body, including your brain.

Dogs cannot metabolize alcohol, so beverages, foods, or household products containing different forms of alcohol are unhealthy and can be toxic.

 If you’ve ever wondered if giving your dog alcohol will calm them down, or if it will be amusing, then the answer is a definite no.

As with most things, prevention is better than cure! There are plenty of things you can do to help prevent your dog from ever experiencing alcohol poisoning. Remember, you should never knowingly give your dog alcohol. Store alcohol-containing products well out of reach of your pet.

You must have probably been asking yourself certain questions about dogs and alcohol, can dogs drink alcohol? or can dogs digest alcohol? In this blog post, we will educate you on dogs and alcohol so keep reading for more juicy information.

Why Is Alcohol Dangerous For Dogs

Dogs are not as big as human beings,  so no matter how small the alcohol is,  it can have a negative effect on them. They also metabolise alcohol differently than humans do, which means it takes their bodies a longer time to eliminate it from their body.

Alcohol is dangerous for dogs because it can cause a range of serious health problems, including liver damage, seizures, and even death. 

Alcohol can be absorbed into a dog’s bloodstream through its body and skin. This can lead to a lot of problems including lethargy, diarrhoea, difficulty in breathing, respiratory failure, vomiting and even death

The biggest risk associated with alcohol consumption in dogs is liver damage, prolonged exposure of alcohol in the body can cause liver problems, the liver can die off and be replaced by scar tissue and this is a very threatening condition.

Another risk we will talk about is the potential for seizures, for a seizure to occur, the nervous system has to be tampered with. Alcohol can affect the nervous system, leading to seizures which can be very dangerous for dogs as it can cause them to lose consciousness and suffer from muscle spasms

Lastly, alcohol can cause injuries and lead to falls and if at any point you suspect that your dog has taken alcohol, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately. The faster you seek treatment, the better the chances of a full recovery.

Can Dogs Drink Alcohol/ What To Do If Your Dog Drinks Alcohol 

You have to know that every tiny amount of alcohol can have a significant impact on a dog’s health, immediately you discover any negative reaction from your dog, do well to seek veterinary help immediately, the faster you do, the better your chances of recovery they have.

Depending on the level of the alcohol exposure, your dog might end up getting hospitalised and may require intravenous fluid to help flush the alcohol out of their system as well as medication to control other symptoms.

on the severity of the alcohol exposure, your dog may require hospitalization for supportive care. This may include intravenous fluids to help flush the alcohol out of their system, as well as medications to control seizures and other symptoms.

While your dog is under treatment from the veterinarian, make sure to follow instructions carefully while administering their medications at home and also monitor their symptoms and do a follow-up on their appointments

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Apart from seeking veterinary care, it is very important to keep your dogs away from alcohol and educate the children around your dog about the risk involved in feeding your dogs alcohol so that they don’t playfully feed them also be vigilant about what your dog is eating and drinking.

Read Also: Can Dogs Eat Raw Onions?

Alternatives Of Alcohol For Dogs

There are other alternative drinks for your dogs to enjoy without any harm, let’s look at them below:

1. Bowser For Dogs

Bowser Beer is a beer formulated just for dogs! Made in the USA with real human-grade beef, chicken or pork, it has no added salt or fat. Combined with malt barley which contains vitamin B and amino acids, and glucosamine to promote healthy joints, you have a delicious brew that is healthy and nutritious.

Bowser beer is a healthy treat for dogs of all sizes! No added salt, fat, carbonation, or alcohol. Comes in a 6-pack

If your dog needs to blow off some steam after a long day of chasing squirrels and barking at the mailman, pour them a tall, frosty mug of Bowser Beer. Like all good beer, these drinks use human-grade meat as their primary ingredient — either chicken, pork, or beef.

2. K9 Power

K9 Power Total K9 is a highly palatable, non-allergenic supplement providing nutraceuticals that contribute to enhanced functioning and health of the dog’s organ systems, especially skin and coat, gut, brain, ocular, bone and joint, and heart.

This nutrient-dense blend promotes a healthier and shinier coat from the inside out. If your dog works hard and plays harder, give him the performance-sustaining nutrients he needs with the K9 POWER Super Fuel Nutritional Energy & Muscle Dog 

All you have to do is mix a scoop or two with some water, then serve it to your pup (and with ingredients like chicken and agave nectar inside, they’ll likely lap it right down). 

3. Doggie Water

Doggie Water is a vitamin water designed specifically for dogs. It has all of the key vitamins and nutrients to keep your favourite companion happy and healthy.

Adding the right set of dog supplements and natural electrolytes to your dog’s daily diet, which is not provided from food, will make your dog healthier plus more active and DoggieWater provides essential vitamins for dogs.

The drinks come in three flavours — bacon, chicken, and steak — so your pup should always be excited about staying hydrated. Again, though, if your pup’s idea of a hard day is to binge-watch three different shows on Netflix, this drink will likely be overkill for them. It’s strictly for the fitness fanatics out there.

4. Viva Coco Coconut Water for Dogs

If you ever enjoy a little bit of coconut water, then you know how much of a refreshing break it can be from the monotony of regular water. So, why not share that refreshment with your pooch? These Viva Coco powdered coconut water packs are easy to mix up, and many dogs love the taste.

They’re not just good for variety, either. They’re loaded with electrolytes like calcium, sodium, and potassium, and also offer a boost of vitamin C. You can offer these drinks to your pup in moderation to entice them to drink more water.

5. Chardognay

Like the bottle you crack open every evening after work, this charming wine is designed to help your dog leave the stress of the day behind. Made from a combination of chicken broth, chamomile, and a proprietary blend of nutrients like glucosamine, it should relax your dog while hydrating them at the same time.

The manufacturers claim that it will help your dog sleep, acting as a mild, non-toxic sedative. Whether that’s true or not, one thing’s for certain: If you see your dog downing a bottle of Chardognay, do not let them drive.

6. TropiClean Oral Care Fresh Breath

TropiClean isn’t technically a different drink than water, but it will make your dog’s water bowl more enticing, as it adds a dash of green tea to their daily H2O. This helps combat bacteria in your pup’s mouth, improving their dental hygiene and cutting down on stinky doggy breath.

The bottle claims that this stuff is tasteless, but we fail to see how something could freshen a dog’s breath that much without them noticing. Regardless, dogs don’t seem to mind the taste, and their owners certainly don’t mind the effects.

Read More: Can Dogs Eat Lamb Bones?

7. Fruit Juices

To be clear, when we say, “fruit juices,” we’re not talking about the store-bought stuff that comes out of the carton in your fridge. Instead, we mean a little bit of the fresh juice that comes out of the fruit itself (just be sure the fruit itself isn’t toxic — grape juice is an obvious no-no).

If you’re so inclined, you can share a little juice from your orange or watermelon with your pup. 

To do this safely without adding too many unnecessary carbohydrates to your dog’s daily diet, just add a dash of juice to flavor your dog’s water bowl. Many dogs enjoy the sweetness, and in small doses, these juices shouldn’t wreak havoc on your dog’s stomach. Don’t go overboard, though, or else you’ll spend all day cleaning up the resulting mess.

8. Milk

This one depends on your dog, as some animals are lactose intolerant; these pups should obviously never be given any moo juice. Even the ones who can tolerate milk should only be given some in very small doses, as it can upset their stomach and is full of unnecessary calories.

If you insist on giving your pup milk, though, consider sources other than the trustworthy cow. Goat’s milk is every bit as nutritious and much less likely to cause any unwanted interactions. Again, we recommend that you only offer your dog a small amount of milk. You can give them a spoonful or two or add a small amount to flavor their drinking water.

Symptoms Of Alcohol Poisoning 

Alcohol poisoning is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when a person consumes a large amount of alcohol in a short period of time. This can cause a range of symptoms, including:

1. Confusion and disorientation: Alcohol poisoning can cause a person to become confused and disoriented. They may have trouble speaking or walking, and may not be able to understand what is happening around them.

2. Vomiting: Alcohol poisoning can cause a person to vomit repeatedly. This can be dangerous, as it can cause dehydration and lead to a loss of fluids and electrolytes.

3. Seizures: In severe cases, alcohol poisoning can cause seizures. These can be very dangerous, as they can cause a person to lose consciousness and suffer from muscle spasms.

4. Slow or irregular breathing: Alcohol poisoning can cause a person’s breathing to become slow or irregular. This can be very dangerous, as it can lead to a lack of oxygen in the body and cause organ damage.

5. Blue-tinged or pale skin: In severe cases, alcohol poisoning can cause a person’s skin to turn blue or become pale. This is a sign that the body is not getting enough oxygen, and can be a life-threatening symptom.

6. Low body temperature: Alcohol poisoning can cause a person’s body temperature to drop. This can be dangerous, as it can lead to hypothermia and cause other health problems.

7. Unconsciousness: In severe cases, alcohol poisoning can cause a person to lose consciousness. This is a life-threatening symptom, as it can lead to a lack of oxygen in the body and cause organ damage.

If you suspect that someone has alcohol poisoning, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Alcohol poisoning can be life-threatening, and prompt treatment is essential to ensure a full recovery.

When you arrive at the hospital, the medical staff will likely perform a physical examination of the person to assess their overall health and determine the extent of the alcohol exposure. They may also perform blood tests to check for organ damage and other health problems.

Depending on the severity of the alcohol poisoning, the person may require hospitalization for supportive care. This may include intravenous fluids to help flush the alcohol out of their system, as well as medications to control seizures and other symptoms.

Throughout the course of treatment, it is important to follow the medical staff’s instructions carefully. This may include monitoring the person’s symptoms, administering medications, and bringing them back to the hospital for follow-up appointments.

How To Prevent Dogs From Drinking Alcohol 

Dogs are curious creatures and they may sometimes try to drink anything they come across, including alcohol. However, alcohol is toxic to dogs and can cause serious health problems, including liver damage, seizures, and even death. As a responsible pet owner, it is important to take steps to prevent your dog from drinking alcohol. Here are some tips to help you keep your dog safe:

1. Store alcohol out of reach: One of the easiest ways to prevent your dog from drinking alcohol is to store it out of reach. Keep bottles, cans, and glasses of alcohol on high shelves or in cabinets that your dog cannot access. If you are having a party or gathering, make sure that any alcohol is kept in a secure location where your dog cannot get to it.

2. Clean up spills immediately: If you spill alcohol on the floor or table, be sure to clean it up immediately. Dogs are attracted to the smell of alcohol and may try to lick up any spills they come across. Use a paper towel or cloth to clean up the spill thoroughly, and then dispose of the towel or cloth in a secure location.

3. Don’t give your dog alcohol: It may seem obvious, but it is important to never give your dog alcohol. Even a small amount of alcohol can be dangerous for dogs, and can cause serious health problems. Additionally, dogs do not have the ability to metabolize alcohol in the same way that humans do, so even a small amount can have a big impact on their health.

4. Monitor your dog’s behavior: If you suspect that your dog has consumed alcohol, it is important to monitor their behavior carefully. Watch for signs of lethargy, vomiting, and loss of coordination, as these can be signs of alcohol poisoning. If you notice any of these symptoms, seek veterinary care immediately.

5. Keep your dog entertained: Boredom can be a major factor in why dogs try to drink alcohol. Make sure your dog has plenty of toys to play with, and take them for regular walks and playtime to keep them entertained and engaged.

6. Train your dog to avoid alcohol: You can train your dog to avoid alcohol by teaching them the “leave it” command. This command teaches your dog to ignore things that they should not touch or consume, including alcohol. To teach your dog the “leave it” command, start by holding a treat in your hand and telling your dog to “leave it.” When your dog ignores the treat, reward them with a different treat. Repeat this process several times a day

Other Alternative Dogs Treat For Your Dogs 

1. Almond Butter Dog Treats

Ingredients:

• Banana
• apple
• cinnamon
• almond butter
• oat flour

Step by Step Baking

1. Firstly, preheat your oven to 350 degrees.
2. Secondly, mash a small banana with a fork or a potato masher or both on a cutting board. Add this to a small bowl.
3. Thirdly, peel and cut a small apple into slices or pieces. Then, mash the pieces with a fork or a potato masher or both on a cutting board. Add this to the bowl with the banana.
4. Before you measure out the almond butter, make sure to stir it thoroughly in its jar. After that, measure and add the almond butter to the bowl with the mashed banana and apple.
5. Then, mix in the Ceylon cinnamon and 1½ cups of the oat flour with the wet ingredients. Mix together until all of the ingredients are moistened.
6. Next, add the last ½ cup of flour. Use your hands to knead thoroughly to form a dough ball.
7. Place the dough ball onto a floured sheet of wax paper. Then, use a rolling pin to roll out the dough ball to about an ⅛ of an inch thick.
8. After that, use any shape cookie cutter to cut the dough into cookies. I used small ones because my fur babies are little. In addition, I wanted the almond butter ingredient to be served in a small portion.
9. Place the shapes on a cookie sheet lined with wax paper, a half-inch apart.
10. Lastly, bake for 12 minutes. All ovens cook differently, so start checking them at about eight minutes. Also, if you want softer cookies, don’t bake them as long. Or, if you want crunchier cookies, bake a little longer.

2. Easy Pumpkin Dog Treat Recipe

• Author: Melissa Griffiths – Bless this Mess
•   Total Time: 35 minutes
•   Yield: 4 dozen medium treats 

Ingredients:

• 1 cup pumpkin
• 2 eggs
• ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
• 2.5 to 3 cups whole wheat flour

Instruction

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
2. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin, eggs, and peanut butter, and stir well.
3. Add 2.5 cups of flour, and stir to combine. The dough should be about the consistency of play-dough: soft and easy to roll out, but not wet and sticky. Add more flour as needed to reach this consistency.
4. Divide the dough into 2 pieces. Working with one piece at a time, roll it out on a well-floured surface until it is ½-inch thick.
5. Cut the dog treats out using a cookie cutter, or you can simply cut them into squares using a knife.
6. Place the cut-out cookies on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
7. Repeat with remaining dough, gathering and re-rolling the scrap dough until all the dough is used.
8. Bake for 20 minutes or until cooked through.
9. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week or in the freezer for 3 months.

Note:

• The homemade dog treats will still be a little soft at the 20 minutes mark. My pup prefers them like this. Their shelf life is shorter like this, though (this is why you keep them in the fridge or freezer).
• Bake for an additional 10 minutes if you’d like a crisp dog treat. They are more shelf stable when they are cooked longer, but the fridge or freezer will still prolong their usability.
• Let treats thaw at room temp for a few minutes before giving to you dog.
• Make sure your peanut butter doesn’t contain artificial sweeteners like xylitol — it’s toxic for dogs.

3. Strawberries Treat Recipe 1

Ingredients

• Fresh Strawberries – the star of the treats!
• Banana – use a ripe banana.
• Peanut Butter is a healthy fat and adds protein to the treats.
• Oat Flour is a whole-grain flour rich in nutrients.
• Old-Fashioned Oats for texture.
• Water to add moisture to the dough.

Instructions:

• Cut the strawberries into pieces.
• Mash the banana in a medium or large bowl. Add peanut butter and stir to combine.
• Add the flour and oats.
• Stir to combine, the dough will be crumbly.
• Add enough water for the dough to easily be spooned or placed into a silicone mold.
• Spoon the dough into the mold.
• Press strawberry pieces into each one.
• Bake at 350°F for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
• Transfer the baked treats to a wire rack and cool them to room temperature

4. Homemade Pumpkin Banana Dog Treats

Ingredients List

• 2 cups whole-wheat flour
• 1 ripe banana (mashed)
• 1 cup pumpkin puree 
• 1 tbsp barley malt syrup
• 1 tbsp ground flaxseed

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350F
• Line baking tray with parchment or silicone baking mat
• Mash banana
• Put banana, pumpkin and barley malt syrup into a large bowl
• Use a fork to mix these ingredients together well
• Add ground flaxseed to flour and stir in
• Add dry ingredients to wet, one cup at a time
• Combine well using a wooden spoon
• Dough should be dry, if it’s too sticky use additional flour until you get the right consistency
• Turn the dough out onto the red the surface
• Use the floured rolling pin to roll the dough out to 1/4″ thickness
• Cut treats into desired shapes using a cookie cutter
• Bake at 350F for 12 minutes
• Remove from oven and allow to cool completely

5. Salmon And Parsley Dog Treats

Ingredients List:

• 2 cups whole wheat flour
• 1 cup whole grain oat flour
• 1/4 cup brewers yeast
• 1/4 cup canned salmon*
• 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
• 1 egg
• 1/3 cup parsley (finely chopped)
• 3/4 cup water

Instructions

• Preheat oven to 350F
• Line baking tray with silicone baking mat
• Finely chop parsley using sharp knife
• Finely grate cheddar cheese
• Mash canned salmon with fork 
• Put whole wheat flour, oat flour and brewer’s yeast into a large bowl and stir well to mix
• In a smaller bowl combine egg, chopped parsley and water
• Stir grated cheese and mashed salmon into the flour mixture and stir to blend
• Make a well in the centre of the flour and add wet ingredients. Stir the mixture thoroughly with a wooden spoon
• Use hands to form dough and turn it out onto lightly floured wax paper
• Use a lightly floured rolling pin to roll the dough out to approx. 1/4″ thickness
• Cut out treats to desired shapes using cookie cutters
• Bake at 350F for 20 minutes
• Remove treats from oven and allow to cool completely
• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for five to seven days

Frequently Asked Questions 

1.Can dogs lick alcohol?

Alcohol can be dangerous for humans in excessive quantities, and even worst for dog consumption but the bottom line is that alcohol is never okay or safe for canines

2. Why are dogs attracted to alcohol?

Beer Has a Sweet Taste

One common belief is that dogs like the taste of beer because it is sweet. Dogs are interested in eating and drinking sweet things, just like humans are, and the sweetness of alcohol is enticing to them.

3. Do dogs react to drunk people?

Dogs have actually been known to bark and moan at their owners who are excessively high or drunk, simply out of fear that their human friend is no longer recognizable. Substances change our physiology and certainly the way we act. Dogs can sense

4. Can dogs absorb alcohol through the skin?

What Is Alcohol Poisoning in Dogs? All three main types of alcohol—ethanol, methanol, and isopropanol—are rapidly absorbed by the digestive tract (stomach, intestines, and colon) and through the skin.

5. What is dog wine?

Dog wine is a specially formulated drink free of alcohol, grapes and carbonation, and is made of 100% dog-safe ingredients. They are made with brewed peppermint or chamomile to help calm your pup down. They get their colouring from beet juice.

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Conclusion 

In conclusion,  keep in mind that small amounts of alcohol can be hazardous to your dog’s health. Alcohol can cause lethargy, respiratory depression, and dangerously low body temperature in dogs.

There’s no reason why you can’t have both alcohol and pets in your home, but be careful when mixing the two. You will not only kill your dog by giving it alcohol it can be classified as animal abuse, which is illegal.