Hops and Dogs: Homebrewing Safety

Homebrewing is a growing hobby in Australia, and many dog owners enjoy crafting their own beer at home. But did you know that hops, a key ingredient in beer, can be highly toxic to dogs?

We recently heard from one of our past puppy school graduates’ owners, whose dog, Luther, ended up in ICU after ingesting hops. Thankfully, he is receiving the best care, but his owners had no idea that hops were dangerous—a common issue that many pet owners face.

What Are Hops and Why Are They Dangerous?

Hops come from the plant Humulus lupulus and are used to flavour and stabilise beer. They can be found in various forms, including:

✅ Fresh hops

✅ Dried flowers

✅ Pellets

✅ Spent hops (used hops from brewing)

While all these forms are safe for humans, they can be deadly for dogs. When a dog ingests hops, they can develop a severe condition called malignant hyperthermia—a rapid and life-threatening rise in body temperature.

How Does Hops Poisoning Affect Dogs?

Hops poisoning can cause dangerous overheating. Do not wait for a particular temperature reading before seeking help, and do not delay urgent care while looking for a thermometer.

Ingesting hops can also trigger a range of other serious symptoms:

Heavy panting or rapid breathing

Agitation or restlessness

Vomiting or diarrhoea

Increased heart rate

Seizures or collapse

Signs may develop quickly or be delayed. A dog who looks well immediately after eating hops still needs urgent veterinary advice. Do not use an apparent symptom-free period as a reason to wait.

Which Dogs Are Most at Risk?

Any dog who eats hops may be at risk. Breed, body shape or apparent fitness cannot tell you that an exposure is safe.

What Should You Do If Your Dog Eats Hops?

If you suspect your dog has ingested hops, act fast—this is a medical emergency!

Get to a vet immediately. The sooner treatment begins, the better the chances of recovery.

Call your vet immediately for first-aid and transport instructions. Tell them what was eaten, when it happened and whether your dog is showing signs. Keep any packaging or a sample safely away from animals.

Ask for immediate guidance about cooling if your dog is overheating. Cooling can be an important part of treatment. Do not use an ice bath or delay veterinary care. Do not induce vomiting or give medicines or other home remedies unless a vet or veterinary poisons professional specifically instructs you.

Call ahead. If you’re on the way to a vet clinic, call them to let them know you’re coming with a hops poisoning case.

At the vet, your dog will receive immediate supportive care to lower their body temperature, stabilise their condition, and prevent further complications.

How to Keep Your Dog Safe from Hops Poisoning

If you brew beer at home or know someone who does, take these precautions to prevent accidental poisoning:

✅ Store hops securely – Keep them in airtight, pet-proof containers well out of reach.

✅ Dispose of spent hops safely – Dogs can be drawn to the smell of spent hops, so make sure they’re discarded in a sealed bin or compost system that pets cannot access.

✅ Supervise dogs near brewing areas – If you’re brewing at home, keep your dog out of the brewing space to prevent accidental ingestion.

✅ Warn friends and family – If you visit a homebrewer or a pet-friendly brewery, check that no hops are left where dogs can reach them.

Why We’re Sharing This Information

Luther’s owners had no idea hops were toxic to dogs—and they’re not alone. Many pet owners are unaware of the dangers, which is why we’re sharing this important message.

If you brew beer at home, or if you know someone who does, please share this post. Spreading awareness could save a dog’s life.

For more pet safety tips, dog training advice, and behaviour support, follow Jordan Dog Training.

Disclaimer

The information provided in this post is intended as a general guide only. If your dog has ingested hops or is showing symptoms of toxicity, seek immediate veterinary attention. Jordan Dog Training provides education on dog safety and behaviour but does not offer veterinary advice. Always consult a qualified veterinarian for medical concerns.