PupkeeperToxicEmergency
Dog ate windshield washer fluid (methanol)? Toxic: what to do now
Windshield washer fluid contains methanol, which makes dogs act drunk, and some products also contain antifreeze, which can be fatal.
If your dog ate or touched this, call your vet or a pet poison line now
United States
Poison lines in other countries: United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Belgium, France, JM, PR, Singapore, Switzerland, TT, VI
Windshield washer fluid (methanol) and dogs: key facts
What should I do if my dog ate windshield washer fluid (methanol)?
- Call your vet or a pet poison line now.
- Bring the bottle, or the exact product name and temperature rating, to the vet.
- Check the label for ethylene glycol and tell the vet.
Don't
- Don't make your dog vomit unless a vet tells you to.
Symptoms to watch for
- Acting drunk or wobbly
- Low energy or depression
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Belly pain
- Slow or shallow breathing
- Low blood sugar
When signs appear: Usually within 30 to 60 minutes
Why
Methanol acts like strong alcohol in dogs and is absorbed fast. Many washer fluids also contain ethylene glycol or propylene glycol, which can still poison at lower amounts.
Sources
Guide reviewed 9 October 2026. Page updated 7 November 2026.
General information from the sources above, not a diagnosis. When in doubt, call your vet.