Can Dogs Drink Antifreeze? No — Fatal Kidney Failure, Always an Emergency
This food is NOT safe for dogs. Keep it away from your pet.
Antifreeze (ethylene glycol) is one of the most deadly substances for dogs. Its sweet taste attracts dogs and even a small amount causes fatal kidney failure. This is always a life-threatening emergency.
Search another food
Warning Signs & Symptoms
Appears drunk initially, vomiting, excessive thirst, seizures, kidney failure within 24-72 hours, death.
If Your Dog Ate This
Call vet or ASPCA Poison Control 888-426-4435 immediately.
What to Avoid
all antifreeze products — ethylene glycol and propylene glycol
Preparation & Serving
Call vet or emergency animal hospital IMMEDIATELY. Do not wait for symptoms to pass. Treatment must begin within hours to be effective.
Did you know?
Antifreeze is sweet because ethylene glycol has a sweet taste — which is why animals including dogs are attracted to it. Propylene glycol-based antifreeze was developed partly as a pet-safer alternative though it is still toxic to cats.
Portions & nutrition
- Toxic dose (per kg body weight)
- 1.4ml/kg ethylene glycol is lethal
- Serving (small dog)
- never
- Serving (medium dog)
- never
- Serving (large dog)
- never
- Calories (per 100g)
- 0
- Safe frequency
- Never
Source
What You Need to Know
Ethylene glycol antifreeze causes rapid kidney crystal formation destroying kidney function. A teaspoon can kill a small dog. The initial drunk-appearing symptoms pass leading owners to think the dog has recovered — but kidney failure is progressing. Treatment must begin within 8-12 hours of ingestion to be effective. Propylene glycol antifreeze is less toxic but still dangerous.
Breed-Specific Notes
All dogs at risk — sweet taste makes it appealing to all dogs.
Not sure what to do next? Read our emergency guide What to Do If Your Dog Eats Something Toxic
Want to know what other dangers are hiding in your home?
Take the 60-second kitchen safety quiz to find out your dog's risk score.
Take the safety quizRelated Foods
Stay in the loop
Get new food safety guides, vet tips, and alerts delivered to your inbox.