Can Dogs Swallow Pennies? No — Zinc Causes Fatal Toxicity

This food is NOT safe for dogs. Keep it away from your pet.

Pennies minted after 1982 are extremely toxic to dogs. Modern US pennies contain 97.5% zinc which causes zinc toxicity — a serious and often fatal condition causing hemolytic anemia and organ failure. This is a veterinary emergency.

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Warning Signs & Symptoms

Zinc toxicity: hemolytic anemia — destruction of red blood cells. Organ failure: kidney and liver damage from zinc accumulation. Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, pale gums, weakness, orange-tinged urine, jaundice. Potentially fatal without immediate treatment.

If Your Dog Ate This

If your dog swallowed, or may have swallowed, a penny or any other coin, call your vet or an emergency vet clinic right away and arrange for your dog to be seen, even if your dog seems fine. US pennies made since 1982 have a zinc core, and stomach acid can release zinc that destroys red blood cells and damages the kidneys and liver; any coin can also cause a blockage. Do not wait for symptoms such as vomiting, weakness, pale gums or dark or orange urine. Your vet will decide what tests and treatment are needed, which may include an X-ray and removing the coin. Tell the vet how many coins may be missing and your dog's weight. Do not try to make your dog vomit unless a veterinarian or poison-control expert tells you to.

What to Avoid

all pennies — particularly post-1982 US pennies

Preparation & Serving

Call emergency vet IMMEDIATELY. Your vet will decide whether an X-ray and removal are needed. Do not wait for symptoms.

Portions & nutrition

Serving (medium dog): never
Serving (large dog): never
Calories (per 100g): 0
Safe frequency: Never

Source

Source: SAFEFOODFORDOGS

What You Need to Know

US pennies minted after 1982 contain a zinc core plated with copper. When swallowed, stomach acid dissolves the copper coating releasing zinc which is rapidly absorbed and toxic. A single penny contains enough zinc to cause serious toxicity in a small dog. Older pennies (pre-1982) contain primarily copper and are less dangerous. This is a veterinary emergency; your vet will decide what tests and treatment are needed, which may include an X-ray and removing the coin.

Not sure what to do next? Read our emergency guide What to Do If Your Dog Eats Something Toxic

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If Your Dog Ate This — Act Now

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Frequently asked questions

Are Pennies safe for dogs?: No, Pennies are not safe for dogs. Pennies minted after 1982 are extremely toxic to dogs. Modern US pennies contain 97.5% zinc which causes zinc toxicity — a serious and often fatal condition causing hemolytic anemia and organ failure. This is a veterinary emergency.
What happens if a dog eats Pennies?: If a dog eats Pennies, they may experience: Zinc toxicity: hemolytic anemia — destruction of red blood cells. Organ failure: kidney and liver damage from zinc accumulation. Symptoms: vomiting, diarrhea, pale gums, weakness, orange-tinged urine, jaundice. Potentially fatal without immediate treatment.
How many Pennies can a dog eat?: US pennies minted after 1982 contain a zinc core plated with copper. When swallowed, stomach acid dissolves the copper coating releasing zinc which is rapidly absorbed and toxic. A single penny contains enough zinc to cause serious toxicity in a small dog. Older pennies (pre-1982) contain primarily copper and are less dangerous. This is a veterinary emergency; your vet will decide what tests and treatment are needed, which may include an X-ray and removing the coin.

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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a licensed veterinarian before making dietary changes for your pet.