Dogs eat dead things. Dogs eat slimy things. Dogs eat ... well, almost anything! When considering the household items that could be problematic for your pet, you might've overlooked one of the most common ones: soap. Because, we as humans, like to add pleasant smells to our soaps, your dog might think they are a tasty treat. If your dog ate soap, you might be worried. Will they get sick? Is soap poisonous?
If your dog ate a bar of soap or licked some liquid soap, you're justified in being a little concerned — but there's no need to panic. Read on to learn the facts, including what soap is actually made of, how eating soap can affect your dog's health and how to know when you should bring your pup to the veterinarian.
What's in Soap?
While every soap is slightly different, most liquid soaps contain water, oils (usually cocamide DEA, monoethanolamine and/or glycerin), fragrances and dyes, among other ingredients, such as sodium lauryl sulfate, parabens, triclosan and cocamidopropyl betaine.
Bar soap and soaps labeled "natural" have similar ingredients. Some soaps may also contain essential oils or dried herbs.
Your Dog Ate Soap: Should You Be Worried?
Some of the ingredients commonly used in soaps are harmful to humans if ingested. However, it can be difficult to know exactly how dangerous it is for dogs to ingest soap.
Soaps containing essential oils can be especially harmful to a dog's health. Pet Poison Helpline explains that pine oil, a common additive in disinfectants and cleaning products, can cause severe side effects in dogs who ingest it. Consuming soap that has pine oil in it can cause vomiting, skin irritation, drooling, weakness, loss of muscle control and can potentially harm their kidneys and liver.
Soaps may also cause chemical burns in your dog's mouth, esophagus and stomach. Additionally, ingesting a large chunk of soap may cause a blockage in your pet.
Tasty Tips
Signs to Watch For
If you think your dog ate soap, immediately take the soap away from them, flush their mouth out with water and contact your veterinarian. They may suggest monitoring them for the next few hours, or they may recommend bringing them to the clinic right away if they exhibit any abnormal behavior.
According to Wag!, here are the signs to look out for:
- Drooling
- Licking more than normal
- Frequent swallowing
- Pawing at the face
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
What to Expect at the Vet
If you bring your dog to the vet, they'll conduct a physical exam. Bring the packaging or ingredient list for the soap that your dog ate, if you have it — this will help the vet understand what they're dealing with and can help guide treatment. They may need to perform an endoscopy or take an X-ray to get a full picture of your dog's condition. They may also recommend hospitalizing your dog to monitor them. Depending on how long ago you saw your dog eat the soap may also influence their course of treatment.
If your dog ate a bar of soap, don't panic. Take any remaining soap away from them and get them to the vet if your vet recommends bringing them in. Most importantly, remember to keep all soap products in areas that are out of reach for your curious pet. That way, you can limit the chances of a repeat event and help keep your pooch safe and healthy.
Related products
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Savory Stew with Chicken & Vegetables
Chicken & Vegetables recipe with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to help your puppy build immunity and strong bones
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Chicken & Rice Stew
Chicken & Rice Stew with great taste and precisely balanced nutrition to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light Small Bites with Chicken Meal & Barley Dog Food
18% lower calories vs. Science Diet Adult
Hill's Science Diet Adult Small & Mini Beef & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Beef & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy.
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health, tailored for unique needs of Small and Mini puppies
Hill's Science Diet Adult Light with Chicken Meal & Barley Dog Food
18% lower calories vs. Science Diet Adult
Hill's Science Diet Adult Salmon & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Tender Chicken & Vegetable Stew Dog Food
Supports digestive health, nourishes skin and promotes a lustrous coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Digestion Chicken, Vegetable & Rice Stew Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
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 Perfect Digestion Small & Mini Chicken & Vegetables Entrée Dog Food
Science Diet's breakthrough nutrition supports ultimate digestive well-being & healthy microbiome
Hill's Science Diet Adult Salmon & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Supports healthy immune system, digestion, lean muscle & beautiful coat
Hill's Science Diet Adult Chicken & Barley Entrée Dog Food
Chicken & Barley recipe with precisely balanced nutrition to keep adult dogs active and healthy
Hill's Science Diet Puppy Sensitive Stomach & Skin Salmon & Vegetable Stew
Gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & supporting development in growing puppies
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 Puppy Large Breed Lamb Meal & Brown Rice Recipe
Vital nutrients to support 5 essential building blocks for lifelong health
Hill's Science Diet Adult Healthy Mobility Small Bites Chicken Meal, Brown Rice & Barley Recipe Dog Food
Advanced nutrition to support hip & joint health from day 1
Hill's Science Diet Adult Perfect Weight & Joint Support Chicken Recipe Dry Dog Food
This weight management and mobility support dog food was created with Hill’s unique understanding of the biology of overweight dogs.
Hill's Science Diet Adult Sensitive Stomach & Skin Small Bites
Hill's Science Diet Sensitive Stomach & Skin dry dog food is gentle on stomachs while nourishing skin & promoting a lustrous coat. In a delicious small bite size
Hill's Science Diet Adult 7+ Small & Mini Chicken & Brown Rice Recipe Dog Food
Supports energy level & luxurious coat in Small & Mini dogs. Helps keep immune system, heart & kidneys healthy.
Related articles
Urinary Problems & Bladder Stones in Dogs
Discover how urinary tract diseases like urolithiasis manifest in dogs, and what you can do to help prevent this disease in your dog.
Does My Dog Have a Food Allergy?
Learn facts about dog food allergies, such as common allergens and causes, and if hypoallergenic dog food can help once you've diagnosed his food allergy.
The Safest Way to Travel With a Dog in the Car
Use these helpful tips for going on a road trip with your dog to keep him safe and happy.
Why Is My Dog Shaking? 6 Common Causes for the Shivers
If you're noticed your dog shaking and shivering, you're probably wondering if there is something wrong. Learn common reasons why and what you can do.
Enlarged Spleen in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options
An enlarged spleen in dogs can be potentially life-threatening, but the condition is treatable. Learn about the causes, symptoms and treatment options.
Is My Dog Mad at Me?
Learn the truth about dogs and anger, common behaviors that are mistaken as anger, and how to better interpret and respond to times when they act out.
Do's and Don'ts of Disciplining Dogs
Having trouble with your dog's bad behavior? Learn how to effectively discipline your dog with this helpful list of do's and don'ts.
Why Your Dog Should Exercise
Learn how much exercise is right for your dog's breed, age & size, as well as how choosing the right dog food affects his ability to exercise & stay active
Cataracts in Dogs: Symptoms, Appearance & Treatments
Learn everything you need to know about cataracts in dogs, including common symptoms of the condition, breeds most at risk, and how they can be treated.
Velcro Dogs: Managing Your Dog's Clinginess
Velcro Dogs: Managing Your Dog's Clinginess
What Your Dog is Trying to Tell You
Words may be important for humans to communicate, but canines communicate by dog body language and sounds. Learn how to figure out your pup's signals.
Service Dogs Helping Other Dogs: Two Real-Life Stories of Pups Helping One Another
While service dogs play a huge role in helping people, they can also help other dogs with special needs. Read two true stories of these remarkable dogs.
Can Dogs Have Celery?
Learn whether celery is bad for your dog, how much is a safe amount, and preparation tips if you think they'll enjoy it as a snack.
Dogs & Table Food: Why to Avoid Feeding Them Scraps
While feeding your dog table food or scraps might seem innocent, it can actually be harmful for them. Learn reasons to avoid feeding scraps to your pup.
Pool Safety for Dogs: Tips, Supplies & More
Learn important pool safety tips for your dog, including how to get them familiar with the pool, and supplies like life vests and ramps that can help.
Recognizing Common Signs of Aging in Your Dog
Aging is a part of life, and it is no different in dogs. Learn to detect the signs of aging in your dog, so you can be prepared to help ease the transition.
Is Your Dog Ready for Obedience School?
Learn what kind of training to expect from an obedience school and whether or not it is a good idea for your dog, no matter his age.
Methods for Stopping Your Puppy's Aggressive Behavior
Learn why your new puppy might show signs of aggression & biting, as well as how you can train to him to stop this behavior.
Chondrodystrophic Dog Breeds: All About Short-Legged Dogs
All About Chondrodystrophic (Short Legged) Dog Breeds
Can My Dog Eat Pizza?
Learn whether it's safe to share a slice of pizza with your dog, which ingredients can cause health issues, and how much is a concern if he does eat some.
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.