Although its name would suggest otherwise, Green Dog Coffee is not a type of coffee that is safe for dogs to drink. It is an artisanal coffee company that donates a portion of its profits to help dogs in need. Green Dog Coffee’s mission is heart-warming when there are so many dogs without homes or loving owners. However, coffee itself is very toxic to dogs and should not be given to dogs in any forms. The most dangerous thing about coffee is its high caffeine content.
Why is Coffee Toxic to Dogs?
Coffee of all kinds contains caffeine, though some contain more than others. Caffeine is the stimulating component of coffee that gives us that jolt of energy when we drink a cup of it in the morning or at midday. However, if you are a pet owner, coffee should be far away from your pet as caffeine is very toxic if consumed by dogs. You should also keep away soda, diet pills, and energy drinks, as all these products also contain some caffeine.
When a dog consumes coffee, it stimulates the central nervous system differently from the way it stimulates ours. The dog becomes jittery and restless within minutes as heart rate and blood pressure rapidly increase. The gastrointestinal tract is also affected by coffee as they vomit and pass watery stool. In a broader sense, coffee can cause damage to a dog’s vital organs, such as the heart and neurologic system. If an affected dog doesn’t receive prompt medical care, it can be fatal.
Clinical Signs of Coffee Poisoning in Dogs
Coffee poisoning in dogs is influenced by several factors, such as the caffeine concentration of the coffee, dog size, and quantity ingested. General symptoms may include the following:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Tremors
- Seizures
- Increased heart rate
- Elevated blood pressure
- Restlessness
- Agitation
- Heart arrhythmia
Treatment of Caffeine Poisoning in Dogs
Caffeine poisoning requires early intervention by trained veterinarians. It is never safe for the owner to provide medical care to their pet if they are not professionally trained. You should contact a veterinary clinic immediately or reach out to Pet Poison Helpline® at (855) 764-7661 for advice for what next steps to take. Your vet may induce vomiting to flush out your dog’s system. Medications can be used to stabilize the circulatory and central nervous systems. In some cases, your dog may require continuous supportive care from your vet, so it may have to stay in the hospital for monitoring.