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

My 7 kg dog with heart disease just licked some used brewing hops — is that an emergency?

Dogs · Food safety

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

Short answer

Yes, this is an emergency. Hops are toxic to dogs and can trigger a rapid, fatal rise in body temperature called malignant hyperthermia. The risk is greater for a dog with an existing heart condition, as their system is already under strain. Call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 or your emergency vet immediately, even from a small exposure.

Hops (used hops) — Food safety facts

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

Toxic — can trigger malignant hyperthermia (rapid, fatal rise in body temperature). Emergency if eaten.

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

Hops (used hops) 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

Rich, fatty food is the classic trigger for pancreatitis, a painful inflammation of the pancreas that usually needs veterinary treatment rather than rest alone.

The full verdict, portion guidance and serving notes are collected on the Hops (used hops) food facts page.

Open the full food page: Hops (used hops) food facts →