Dogs
Potentially toxicConsulted references classify the plant as toxic or irritating for that pet type.
Verified against ASPCA/provenance audit 2026-05-06 on May 6, 2026.
Sources
dog safety reference
Is Hops safe for dogs?
Humulus lupulus
Hops are fast-growing perennial vines primarily known for their use in brewing, featuring rough, lobed leaves and papery, cone-like flowers. While popular in gardens, they contain compounds that can cause severe health issues in certain pets.
Common HopHumulus lupulus
- Light
- Full sun
- Habit
- Vining
- Care
- High
Safety status
What this means for your dog
Hops are uniquely dangerous to dogs — fresh, dried, or spent (post-brewing) hops can trigger malignant hyperthermia, where body temperature rockets above 105°F and stays there. This is a true emergency: prognosis worsens fast once signs start, and home brewers' spent hops are a frequent source.
What to watch for
Heavy panting, restlessness or agitation, racing heart rate, vomiting, and red/injected gums. Body temperature can climb above 105°F (40.6°C) — even up to 108°F (42.2°C). Tremors and seizures appear in severe cases.
Time window
Onset is usually rapid — within 30–60 minutes — but signs can be delayed up to 12 hours. Once symptomatic, signs can persist 24–48 hours and prognosis is guarded if treatment is delayed.
When to call the vet
This is an emergency. Call your nearest emergency vet or ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) immediately on any suspected hops ingestion — do not wait for symptoms. Spent hops from home brewing are just as dangerous as fresh.
Sources: ASPCA, ASPCApro, Pet Poison Helpline (no at-home first-aid — emergency vet contact only).
If a pet has chewed or swallowed plant material and is showing symptoms, contact a veterinarian or poison resource immediately. This product is for structured reference, not diagnosis.
Dogs — concern notes
Common signs
Rapid onset of malignant hyperthermia, panting, increased heart rate, abdominal pain, and seizures.
Escalation note
Hops can cause life-threatening increases in body temperature (malignant hyperthermia) in dogs. This is a medical emergency; contact a veterinarian or emergency animal hospital immediately if ingestion occurs.
Safer alternatives
No hand-picked alternatives for this plant yet. You can still pick your own using the Compare button on any other plant.
Source evidence
ASPCA Toxic Plant List
toxicology · 99% reliability
Hops are listed as toxic to dogs, causing malignant hyperthermia.
NC State Extension Plant Toolbox
botanical · 94% reliability
Humulus lupulus is a vigorous, twining perennial vine often grown for its ornamental cones and brewing utility.
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