Is Antifreeze (Ethylene Glycol) Toxic to Dogs?

Antifreeze (ethylene glycol) is one of the most common and deadly pet poisons. It has a sweet taste that attracts animals. As little as 1 teaspoon can kill a cat and 1 tablespoon can kill a small dog. It causes irreversible kidney failure.

Quick Answer

Yes, antifreeze (ethylene glycol) is toxic to dogs. LETHAL — even 1 teaspoon can kill a cat. Antifreeze (ethylene glycol) is one of the most common and deadly pet poisons. It has a sweet taste that attracts animals. As little as 1 teaspoon can kill a cat and 1 tablespoon can kill a small dog. It causes irreversible kidney failure. Watch for symptoms like stage 1 (30 min-12 hrs): appears "drunk" — staggering, vomiting, excessive thirst & stage 2 (12-24 hrs): seeming improvement (false recovery).

Emergency

If your dog has ingested antifreeze (ethylene glycol), contact your vet or ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) immediately.

Symptoms of Antifreeze (Ethylene Glycol) Poisoning

Stage 1 (30 min-12 hrs): Appears "drunk" — staggering, vomiting, excessive thirst
Stage 2 (12-24 hrs): Seeming improvement (false recovery)
Stage 3 (36-72 hrs): Kidney failure, seizures, coma, death

Typical Timeline

There is only a 8-12 hour window for effective treatment. After that, kidney damage is often irreversible.

Treatment Options

RUSH TO EMERGENCY VET — minutes matter
Antidote (fomepizole) must be given within 8-12 hours
Ethanol IV drip as alternative antidote
Aggressive IV fluids and kidney support
Dialysis in severe cases

Prevention Tips

Switch to propylene glycol-based antifreeze (less toxic)
Clean up ANY spills immediately
Check driveways for puddles in winter
Store antifreeze in locked cabinets
Even small puddles are dangerous due to sweet taste

Other Toxins Dangerous to Dogss

🐱 Cats version →🐰 Rabbits version →🐦 Birds version →🐹 Hamsters version →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is antifreeze (ethylene glycol) toxic to dogs?▼

LETHAL — even 1 teaspoon can kill a cat. Antifreeze (ethylene glycol) is one of the most common and deadly pet poisons. It has a sweet taste that attracts animals. As little as 1 teaspoon can kill a cat and 1 tablespoon can kill a small dog. It causes irreversible kidney failure.

What happens if my dog is exposed to antifreeze (ethylene glycol)?▼

Symptoms include: Stage 1 (30 min-12 hrs): Appears "drunk" — staggering, vomiting, excessive thirst; Stage 2 (12-24 hrs): Seeming improvement (false recovery); Stage 3 (36-72 hrs): Kidney failure, seizures, coma, death. There is only a 8-12 hour window for effective treatment. After that, kidney damage is often irreversible.

What should I do if my dog ingested antifreeze (ethylene glycol)?▼

RUSH TO EMERGENCY VET — minutes matter. Antidote (fomepizole) must be given within 8-12 hours. Ethanol IV drip as alternative antidote.

How can I protect my dog from antifreeze (ethylene glycol)?▼

Switch to propylene glycol-based antifreeze (less toxic). Clean up ANY spills immediately. Check driveways for puddles in winter. Store antifreeze in locked cabinets. Even small puddles are dangerous due to sweet taste.