While trying to remain safe and healthy, you keep hand sanitizer on hand, but you didn't think twice about keeping it underneath the sink or on a coffee table. That was until your dog got a hold of it. Now, you may be wondering if hand sanitizer is toxic and whether your dog needs to seek emergency treatment if they consumed some.
Hopefully, you won't ever find yourself in this situation. However, if you do notice that your dog ate hand sanitizer, this guide will walk you through what to do next.
What Ingredients Are in Hand Sanitizer?
The most common ingredient found in hand sanitizer is ethanol alcohol — the same ingredient that's in beer, wine and liquor — which can be dangerous for dogs to ingest. Depending on the hand sanitizer, it may contain 60% to 95% ethanol by volume.
What Happens If My Dog Consumes Hand Sanitizer?
If you think your pup got into your stash of hand sanitizer, you're probably afraid that it is toxic to them. The question of toxicity all depends on how much they ate. There is little cause for concern if they simply lick your hands after you've applied hand sanitizer. Consuming more than a lick's worth, however, could cause more serious issues for your dog.
So how much hand sanitizer is too much for a pup to consume? The answer depends on the size, health and weight of the dog in question. However, as the American Kennel Club (AKC) notes, "The amount of ethanol needed to cause intoxication varies depending on its concentration in the substance ingested." Hand sanitizer can be lethal for dogs if enough is ingested, so if you suspect your dog has gotten into some, call your veterinarian or the pet poison control hotline right away.
Tasty Tips
What Symptoms Should You Watch Out For?
Even if your pup hasn't gotten into your hand sanitizer, it's a good idea to know the symptoms they may display if they do ingest any type of ethanol alcohol. According to the AKC, the most common symptoms a dog will experience when they've ingested too much alcohol are:
- Lethargy
- Incoordination
- Drooling
- Vomiting
- Weakness
- Collapsing
- Decreased respiratory rate
- Low blood sugar
- Low blood pressure
- Low body temperature
When Should You Get Help for Your Dog?
Contact your veterinarian as soon as you suspect that your dog has eaten hand sanitizer. They will likely ask you what type of hand sanitizer your dog consumed and the ingredients listed on the packaging. They will also ask about how much they might have consumed. Depending on those answers, they might suggest that you bring them to the clinic.
No one wants to worry about their pet falling seriously ill. Take a moment to scan your house for potential toxins, such as alcohol, hand sanitizer and cleaning supplies, and move them to high or locked areas that your dog can't access them. By taking these preventive steps, you can keep your pup safe and avoid potential toxic problems.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Adult 11+ Small & Mini Chicken, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
For the unique nutritional needs of mature Small & Mini Dogs
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Savory Stew with Chicken & Zucchini Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Chicken Meal, Barley & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy level and beautiful coat in mature dogs
Hill's Science Diet Puppy No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Supports healthy brain, eye, muscle, bone & immune system development in growing puppies
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini Chicken Recipe Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small & Mini dry dog food is tailored nutrition for Small & Mini dogs while being gentle on stomachs. Nourishes skin & promotes a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Turkey & Barley Dog Food
Turkey & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Pollock Meal & Insect Recipe Dog Food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Perfect Digestion Small Bites Chicken, Brown Rice & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome. Delicious food in a small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult Savory Stew with Beef & Vegetables Dog Food
A delicious complement to the nutrition of Science Diet dry dog food
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Healthy Cuisine Hearty Beef, Carrots & Peas Stew Dog Food
Delicious braised beef paired with tender vegetables in a succulent stew
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Barley & Whole Oats Recipe Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain Free Chicken & Potato Recipe dog food
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin Grain Free dry dog food is gentle on stomachs. Nourishes skin & promotes a lustrous coat.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light with Liver Dog Food
Low calories & L-Carnitine help promote ideal body weight, support healthy mobility & maintain heart function
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small Paws Chicken & Barley Entrée
Chicken & Barley recipe with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to help your puppy build immunity and strong bones
Hill's Science Diet Adult No Corn, Wheat, Soy Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe dog food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small Bites Chicken & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle for dogs who prefer smaller kibble
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small Bites Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports lean muscle, for dogs who prefer smaller kibble
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Large Breed Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Supports controlled bone & joint growth. Promotes healthy brain, eye, muscle & immune system development
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Senior Vitality Chicken & Rice Recipe Dog Food
Improves Everyday Ability to Get Up & Go
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Savory Stew with Beef & Vegetables Dog Food
A delicious complement to the superior nutrition of Science Diet dry dog food
Related articles
Are There Dog-Safe Hair Dyes?
Read about options for dog-safe hair dye, including which breeds and hair types work best with dyes and how to safely apply it to your dog's coat.
How to Find the Best Puppy Food for Your Dog
Discover the best puppy food to keep your dog healthy during his formative months. Breed size, ingredients & feeding time are all important considerations.
Why Is My Dog's Muzzle Hair Turning Gray?
Learn why your dog's muzzle might be going gray earlier than expected, including whether it's just a sign of aging, stress, or an underlying health issue.
Puppy Day Care: Is It a Good Fit?
What should you look for when deciding on a dog day care? Learn tips for what to look for in a day care and how to prepare your pup for his first day.
Clipping Dog Nails for Puppy Pedicures
Learn the basics for safely trimming your dog's nails at home, including tools you'll need and the technique for making trimming painless and easy.
Dog Jumping: Why They Jump & How to Train Them Not To
Learn common reasons why dogs like to jump on you, interesting facts about breeds that jump the most & highest, and how to stop their jumping behavior.
What Happens When a Dog Drinks Alcohol?
Learn what happens when a dog drinks alcohol, how serious alcohol can be for his health, and the steps to take if your pup ever sneaks a sip.
Can Dogs Eat Soy?
Learn whether soy is a safe ingredient in dog foods, if there are any health benefits or concerns, as well as if they can have products like soy sauce.
Can My Dog Eat Popcorn? (& Which Flavors are Safe?)
Learn how safe popcorn is for your dog, particular types & flavors of popcorn to avoid, and how much is an ideal amount for your pup.
Healthy Dog Treats You Can Make at Home
If you're looking for an easy way to create healthy, homemade dog treats for your dog, try one of these 2 recipes from Hill's Pet Nutrition.
What to Expect When Adopting a Three-Legged Pet
Learn common concerns from pet parents considering adopting a three-legged pet, including info about mobility, preparing your home, & long-term care.
Enlarged Prostate in Dogs: Managing Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
Signs of an enlarged prostate in dogs (benign prostatic hyperplasia) aren't easy to spot, so learn more about symptoms, treatments & prevention options.
Can Dogs Be Ticklish? (& Where Are Their Spots?)
Learn whether your dog is ticklish, how to recognize if they are & which spots are most sensitive, as well as how to tell if they don't like being tickled.
Luxating Patella in Dogs: Diagnosis, Treatment & More
Luxating patella in dogs, or kneecap displacement, is a common orthopedic disease. Learn the different stages of this condition & how it's usually treated.
When You Should Be Concerned About Your Dog's Dry Nose
A dog's nose can be an indicator of health, so learn how to best care for your dog if their nose is dry, cracked, warm, red, flaky, or has nasal discharge.
Steps to Take When Your Dog Dies
Unfortunately death is a part of life, so be prepared to make arrangements for your dog's body if he dies at home.
Dog Dewclaws: What Are They?
Learn why your dog has that extra nail on the side of his paw, what it's purpose is and where it came from.
How to Care for a Dog Going Blind
Learn how you can continue to provide a great quality of life for your blind or visually-impaired dog to help keep him active and healthy
Why Dogs Throw Up After Eating
Discover some of the common reasons why your dog might be throwing up after eating, and what you can do to help them overcome this issue.
Dogs and Fireworks: How to Help Your Frightened Pooch
Does your dog struggle with the loud noises from fireworks? Read information about canine noise anxiety, and get tips on how to help them cope.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.
Put your dog on a diet without them knowing
Our low calorie formula helps you control your dog's weight. It's packed with high-quality protein for building lean muscles, and made with purposeful ingredients for a flavorful, nutritious meal. Clinically proven antioxidants, Vitamin C+E, help promote a healthy immune system.