Suspect poisoning? US: ASPCA Poison Control (888) 426-4435 · UK: 01202 509 000 · Severe symptoms → nearest emergency vet now.

My 5 kg dog just ate half an energy bar that lists caffeine as an ingredient. What should I do?

Dogs · Food safety

Last reviewed: 2026-09-05 · Reference ranges: ASPCA, Pet Poison Helpline & Merck Veterinary Manual

Short answer

Yes, this is urgent. Caffeine is toxic to dogs and can cause rapid heart rate, tremors, and seizures. Even half a bar can be dangerous for a small dog. Call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435 or your emergency vet immediately.

Coffee & caffeine — Food safety facts

Do not feed · Dogs · full breakdown on the linked food page

Toxic. Caffeine overstimulates the heart and nervous system — vomiting, tremors, seizures and even death at high doses.

Dogs and cats carry the same rating (Do not feed), so the notes below hold for either pet.

Coffee & caffeine should not be given to dogs at all. Even a small amount can do harm, so there is no portion small enough to be safe.

Do not induce vomiting and do not give milk or oil to “dilute” it. Note the food and roughly how much was eaten, then call your vet or a pet poison hotline and follow their advice on whether to bring the pet in straight away.

Why these cautions matter

Caffeine overstimulates the heart and nervous system, and pets clear it so slowly that tremors and restlessness drag on far longer than they would in a person.

The full verdict, portion guidance and serving notes are collected on the Coffee & caffeine food facts page.

Open the full food page: Coffee & caffeine food facts →