Can dogs eat caffeine (coffee, tea and energy drinks)?
Toxic
No. Caffeine is toxic to dogs. A lick of coffee or tea is unlikely to cause poisoning, but coffee grounds, beans and tea bags can be serious.
Also searched as: coffee, coffee beans, coffee grounds, tea
If your dog ate caffeine (coffee, tea and energy drinks)
Call your vet or an animal poison helpline now, even if your dog seems well. Do not wait for symptoms.
If your dog has eaten coffee grounds, beans, tea bags or supplements, contact your vet or a poison helpline.
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We do not list a poison helpline for your country yet. Contact your own vet or the nearest emergency vet straight away.
Symptoms to watch for
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
- Panting
- Excessive thirst and urination
- Hyperactivity
- Abnormal heart rhythm
- Tremors
- Seizures
Why it is dangerous
Coffee, tea, fizzy drinks, energy drinks and some supplements contain caffeine, which belongs to a group of compounds called methylxanthines. The more caffeine, the greater the risk.
Sources
-
Pet Poison Helpline: Caffeine
checked 8 October 2026
ingestion of unused coffee grounds or beans, tea bags, or supplements could cause serious toxicity in dogs or cats.
One or two licks of coffee, tea or soda is unlikely to cause poisoning in most pets.
-
ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets
checked 8 October 2026
methylxanthines can cause vomiting and diarrhea, panting, excessive thirst and urination, hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, seizures and even death.
Last reviewed . How we check foods
This is general information, not veterinary advice. If your dog ate something concerning, contact your vet or a poison helpline immediately.