What is Puppuccino?

Amelia Christensen
2 min readJul 27, 2023

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Image by gadost0 from Pixabay

Recently, I discovered a Starbucks hidden menu: a Puppuccino. Though it’s not an official item, it is clearly meant for dogs. Curious, I did some digging to find out more.

Starbucks registered Puppuccino as their trademark last year; other similar products can’t use that name. Still, there are mysteries behind this unique drink. Who came up with the name? How do dog owners know about it? The recipe is unknown, and whether it’s available globally or only in the United States is unclear. It’s also unclear how to order it.

Although it may not be official, I have some interesting trivia about Puppuccinos to share with you.

・Puppuccino is spelled with a capital P.

・It’s a sample-size cup filled with whipped cream (possibly with a hint of espresso).*

・The name is a combination of “puppy” and “cappuccino” or “frappuccino”.

・If you’re feeling too shy to ask for a Puppuccino, you can request an extra whip on the side.

・Puppuccinos are free.

・The occasional whipped cream is generally safe unless your dog is lactose intolerant. When in doubt, please talk to your vet first.

・Dunkin’ restaurants have a similar item called a puppy latte or a Cup for Pup.

*Be aware that caffeine, chocolate, and many other café menus are toxic to dogs. Always ask about the ingredients of any dog treats they offer to be safe.

Lastly, I found some adorable videos of a dog and a cat taking a “coffee break” that I think you’ll love. Also, in this video, the English teacher shows Japanese students how to order a Puppuccino, in case you find it intriguing. Enjoy!

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