Ibuprofen for Dogs: What You Need to Know to Keep Your Pet Safe

Ibuprofen is a common over-the-counter pain reliever and anti-inflammatory medication used by humans to manage body aches, arthritis, general pain, fever, and more. Our MedVet experts share what ibuprofen is, why it is toxic to dogs, the signs of ibuprofen toxicity, how veterinarians diagnose it, the treatment options available, and most importantly, how you can prevent it.

Can My Dog Have Ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug commonly referred to as NSAID (pronounced with the letter n-said). Ibuprofen is also known by name brands such as Motrin® (McNeil), Advil® (Whitehall-Robins), Haltran® (Lee Pharmaceutical), Midol® (Bayer), Menadol® (Rugby), PediaCare (Pharmacia & Upjohn), as well as various generic forms. While it’s safe for humans to consume to address pain, fever, and more, ibuprofen can be harmful to dogs, even in small doses. These medications are often found in households, making them easily accessible to curious pets, making it very important to store them properly and out of reach for pets.

If your dog appears to be in pain, talk with your family veterinarian who may be able to prescribe your dog a pet-safe NSAID such as Dermaxx (also known as Deracoxib), Rimadyl (also known as Carprofen), or Previcox (also known as Firocoxib.). Do not give your dog any medication that is not prescribed by a veterinarian.

Why is Ibuprofen Toxic to Dogs?

Ibuprofen is toxic to dogs because their bodies metabolize the drug differently than humans. Ibuprofen has a narrow margin of safety in dogs. Even a small amount can be harmful, especially in smaller dogs. Signs of toxicosis can occur when as little as half a 200 mg pill is given to a 25-pound dog. The toxic effects are dose-dependent, meaning that the higher the dose, the more severe the signs. The most common cause of ibuprofen toxicity is a well-meaning owner who administers the medication to alleviate their pet’s pain.

What are the Signs of Ibuprofen Toxicity in Dogs?

In dogs, ibuprofen can cause severe bleeding stomach ulcers, kidney failure, and other serious health issues. The signs of ibuprofen toxicity in dogs can vary depending on the dose ingested and the individual dog’s sensitivity. Signs of ibuprofen toxicity can occur in as little as 12 hours, including:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy or weakness
• Abdominal pain
• Dehydration
• Pale gums
• Increased thirst and urination
• Seizures
• Coma

If you suspect your dog has ingested ibuprofen, call the Pet Poison Hotline at 855-764-7661 and your family veterinarian. They will be able to provide life-saving advice and treatment for your pet. If your family veterinarian is unavailable, take your pet to the nearest MedVet or emergency veterinary hospital.

How a Veterinarian Diagnoses Ibuprofen Toxicity in Dogs

If you suspect your dog has ingested ibuprofen, your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination and may ask about your dog’s recent behavior and any potential exposure to the medication. Diagnostic tests to confirm ibuprofen toxicity may include:

• Blood tests: If ibuprofen was ingested, blood tests may reveal dehydration, anemia from a bleeding ulcer or abnormalities secondary to kidney damage.
• Urine tests: To assess kidney function and look for the presence of blood.
• X-rays or ultrasounds: To evaluate the stomach and intestines for signs of irritation or blockage.

How Ibuprofen Toxicity in Dogs is Treated

The treatment for ibuprofen toxicity in dogs depends on the severity of the signs and how quickly the dog receives veterinary care. Common treatment options include:

• Decontamination: If the ingestion was recent (less than two hours), your veterinarian may induce vomiting or administer activated charcoal to absorb the remaining ibuprofen in the stomach.
• Supportive care: This may include intravenous (IV) fluids for one to two days to maintain hydration and support kidney function, anti-nausea medications, and medications to protect the stomach lining.
• Medications: Depending on the signs, your veterinarian may prescribe medications to manage pain, control seizures, and treat any secondary infections.
• Blood transfusions: If your dog has severe anemia due to bleeding ulcers, a blood transfusion may be recommended.
• Monitoring: Your dog will need to be closely monitored for several days to ensure that their condition improves and to catch any complications early.                       

How to Prevent Ibuprofen Toxicity in Dogs

Preventing ibuprofen toxicity in dogs is essential, as the consequences can be life-threatening. Here are some steps you can take to keep your dog safe:

• Store medications securely: Keep all medications, including over-the-counter drugs, in a secure location that is out of reach of your pets.
• Educate family members: Make sure everyone in your household is aware of the dangers of ibuprofen and other human medications for dogs.
• Read labels carefully: Always read the labels of any medications you give your dog and never give human medications without consulting your veterinarian.
• Seek veterinary advice: If your dog is in pain or has a health issue, consult your veterinarian for appropriate treatment options. They can recommend safe and effective medications for your dog’s specific needs.

Ibuprofen toxicity in dogs is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. By understanding what ibuprofen is, why it is toxic to dogs, and how to recognize the signs of toxicity, you can take steps to prevent accidental ingestion and ensure your dog’s safety. If you suspect your dog has ingested ibuprofen, seek veterinary care immediately. With prompt treatment, many dogs can recover from ibuprofen toxicity, but prevention is always the best approach.

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