Hair of the dog: cure or myth for Hangovers?

What is "Hair of the Dog"?

"Hair of the dog," short for "hair of the dog that bit you," is a well-known English phrase referring to the practice of consuming alcohol as a remedy for a hangover. The idea is simple: drinking a small amount of the same alcohol that caused the hangover is believed to lessen its effects. While this method has been popular for centuries, does it actually work, or is it just a convenient excuse to keep drinking?

The origins of the expression

The phrase has its roots in ancient medical beliefs. In medieval times, people believed that if a dog bit you, applying a few hairs from the same dog to the wound could prevent infection or cure rabies. This idea of “fighting poison with poison” eventually transferred to alcohol consumption, where drinking a little of what made you sick was thought to relieve the symptoms.

Variations of this expression exist in many languages. For example, in Spanish, people say "una clavo saca otro clavo" (one nail removes another), while in German, the phrase "mit einem Schnaps auskurieren" (cure it with a shot) conveys the same idea. The universality of the concept shows how widespread the belief in this "remedy" has been across cultures.

The science behind "Hair of the Dog"

While it might seem logical to counteract a hangover with more alcohol, science tells a different story. Hangovers are caused by dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and the toxic effects of acetaldehyde, a byproduct of alcohol metabolism. Drinking more alcohol can temporarily delay withdrawal symptoms by affecting your body's neurotransmitters, but it does not eliminate the underlying causes of the hangover. Instead, it simply postpones the discomfort and can even make it worse later.

Medical experts recommend rehydration, replenishing electrolytes, eating a nutritious meal, and getting plenty of rest as the best ways to recover from a hangover. Drinking more alcohol may offer short-term relief, but it is not a real cure.

Popular "Hair of the Dog" drinks around the world

Despite its questionable effectiveness, the "hair of the dog" method has led to the creation of specific morning-after drinks meant to help with hangovers. Some famous examples include:

• Bloody Mary (USA/UK) – A cocktail made with vodka, tomato juice, and spices, often consumed as a brunch hangover remedy.

• Michelada (Mexico) – A beer-based drink mixed with lime juice, sauces, and spices.

• Prairie Oyster (USA/UK) – A raw egg, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, salt, and pepper, sometimes mixed with brandy.

• Black Velvet (UK/Ireland) – A mix of stout beer and champagne.

• Corpse Reviver No. 2 (UK) – A classic cocktail with gin, Cointreau, Lillet Blanc, lemon juice, and absinthe.

These drinks are often promoted as hangover solutions, but their effectiveness is largely anecdotal.

The verdict: cure or just an excuse?

While "hair of the dog" remains a popular tradition, scientific research does not support it as a real hangover cure. At best, it provides temporary relief by numbing the symptoms, but at worst, it can prolong dehydration and delay recovery. Instead, drinking water, getting electrolytes, and allowing your body time to detoxify are the most effective ways to recover.

Aristopattes.fr’s Opinion

Although the "hair of the dog" method might sound tempting, the healthiest approach to dealing with a hangover is to hydrate, eat well, and rest. Taking care of your body is essential, just as ensuring the well-being of your pets is important. At Aristopattes.fr, we provide high-quality pet products to keep your furry friends happy and healthy. After all, they deserve the best care—just like you do after a long night out!