household
Coins
IMMEDIATE VET ATTENTION
Swallowed coins can cause zinc poisoning and gut obstruction. Pennies minted after 1982 in the US are especially dangerous.
If your dog has eaten this item, contact your vet or an emergency veterinary service now.
If your dog is showing symptoms such as difficulty breathing, seizures, collapse, severe vomiting, unconsciousness or other serious symptoms, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
What to do
Contact your vet immediately. Do not wait for symptoms.
When to contact a vet: Emergency vet attention immediately, especially if a zinc penny was swallowed.
Symptoms to look for
- vomiting
- diarrhoea
- lethargy
- pale gums
- weakness
- abdominal pain
- loss of appetite
Why
Coins can become stuck in the gut and cause a blockage. Zinc coins, particularly US pennies made after 1982, can dissolve in stomach acid and release zinc, leading to anaemia and organ damage. The copper coating can also irritate the stomach.
- Substances of concern
- zinc, copper
- Safer parts
- {}
- Parts to avoid
- {pennies,"other coins","coin collections"}
- Preparation
- Keep coins out of reach.
- How much matters
- Even one penny can cause zinc toxicity in a small dog.
- Severity
- Severe
Sources
- Pet Poison HelplinePrimary authoritative — Physical hazard
This answer rests on a single approved source and is queued for further review.
Information reviewed against recognised veterinary and animal-safety sources. Source organisations are independent of Is It For Dogs unless otherwise stated.
Last reviewed 6 September 2026 · next review due September 2027.
Safety classifications are based on available expert and veterinary information. Individual dogs may react differently, particularly dogs with allergies, existing health conditions or specific dietary requirements.
Important: Is It For Dogs provides general information about the safety of foods, plants, drinks, ingredients and other items around dogs. Our information is based on sources we consider reliable and is intended to help dog owners make informed decisions. It is not a substitute for advice from a qualified veterinary professional. Read more
Dogs can react differently depending on their size, age, health, allergies, medications, the amount consumed and other circumstances. An item classified as Safe is not necessarily suitable for every individual dog.
If your dog has eaten something potentially poisonous or dangerous, has eaten an unknown substance, or is showing concerning symptoms, contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary service immediately.
Do not induce vomiting or give your dog medication unless specifically instructed to do so by a veterinary professional.