Can Dogs Have Soda? Is Soda Bad For Dogs?

No, dogs cannot have soda. Although a fizzy and refreshing beverage for humans, soda is bad for dogs for several reasons. Beyond offering little in the way of nutritional benefits, most sodas contain ingredients that can be harmful to your dog, including caffeine, extra sugar, and artificial sweeteners.

Here’s what you need to know.

Why is soda bad for dogs?

It shouldn’t come as a surprise to learn that little nutritional benefit comes from serving soda to your pup. Water is by far the best and healthiest way to keep your dog hydrated.

When it comes to the specifics of why soda is bad for dogs, caffeine is one of the main culprits. Many commercial brands contain the stimulant caffeine, which is an ingredient you want to keep away from your dog.

Secondly, many sodas are very high in sugar, which could lead to medical complications, like an increased chance of developing canine obesity or diabetes.

Even “sugar-free” sodas are usually packed with artificial sweeteners, some of which could be harmful. While you’re more likely to find sucralose or aspartame in popular diet beverages, in some cases, you might also find the artificial sweetener xylitol used in soda. Even more popular “healthy prebiotic sodas” contain xylitol, which is highly toxic for dogs.

Additionally, dogs can have a hard time digesting carbonated beverages, which can result in dogs suffering from gas in many cases.

What should I do if my dog drinks soda?

First of all, the good news is that if you notice that your dog has sneaked in a sip or two of xylitol-free soda, such a small amount likely won’t result in any immediate harm to your pooch.

In many cases, the strong smell and carbonated nature of soda also mean that a lot of dogs simply won’t show much interest in drinking it.

If you suspect that your pup has managed to consume a significant amount of soda, then it’s important to closely monitor them for signs of symptoms. Some of the most likely symptoms include: