- VEG
- 4 hours ago
- 4 min read
When your dog is hurting, it’s instinctive for pet parents to look for quick relief. Since over-the-counter medications such as Advil and Motrin are relatively safe for some humans, it’s a common misconception that they’re safe for pets as well. Unfortunately, that’s not the case.
We'll say it up front: never give your pet over-the-counter medication (unless under the direct supervision of a veterinarian). Ibuprofen and other OTC medications can be deadly to dogs and other pets. Always contact VEG ER for Pets for advice before trying any at-home treatment.
Is ibuprofen safe for dogs?
The short answer is no — ibuprofen is not safe for dogs at any dose. Even a single tablet can cause serious harm and may require a trip to VEG ER for Pets emergency vet hospital.
Dogs process medications differently than humans do. What helps relieve pain in us can be toxic — and even life-threatening — for pets. Because ibuprofen is widely available and commonly used in people, accidental exposure to it is one of the most frequent medication emergencies we see at VEG.
Understanding why ibuprofen is dangerous to dogs, what symptoms to watch for, and when to seek emergency care can make a critical difference to your dog’s safety.
Why is ibuprofen dangerous for dogs?
Ibuprofen belongs to a class of drugs called “non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs” (NSAIDs). In people, these medications (like Motrin, Advil, and other brands) reduce pain and inflammation by blocking enzymes involved in inflammation. But, in dogs the same enzymes play an essential role in protecting vital organs.
When a dog ingests ibuprofen, it can interfere with:
Blood flow to the kidneys
Protective lining of the stomach and intestines
Normal clotting mechanisms
Even a single dose of ibuprofen can put a dog at high risk for:
Stomach ulcers
Internal bleeding
Kidney failure
Neurological complications
Toxicity can occur quickly — even if just a small amount was ingested.
Signs and symptoms of ibuprofen toxicity in dogs
Symptoms can begin within hours of ingestion, but some effects — especially kidney damage — may take longer to fully develop.
Ibuprofen toxicity symptoms
Early warning signs of ibuprofen toxicity in dogs may include:
More serious or advanced symptoms of ibuprofen toxicity can include:
Black, tar-like stools
Severe dehydration
Collapse or unresponsiveness
Important: A dog does not need to show symptoms for an emergency to exist. If ingestion is known or suspected, treatment should begin immediately. VEG emergency hospital for your dog s open 24/7.
What should I do if my dog ate ibuprofen?
If you believe your dog swallowed ibuprofen or Advil — act right away!
Do not try home remedies.
Do not attempt to induce vomiting unless instructed by a veterinarian.
Contact VEG immediately — call or walk in: no appointments taken.
Be ready to share the following information with your vet:
The medication name and strength
How many tablets may have been ingested
When ingestion may have occurred
Your dog’s weight
Time matters. The sooner the treatment begins, the better the chances of preventing serious organ damage.
How Is ibuprofen toxicity in dogs treated?
Treatment depends on how much was ingested, how long ago it happened and whether symptoms are present.
At VEG animal hospital, care for ibuprofen ingestion may include:
Anti-nausea and pain control medications
Medications to limit absorption of the drug
IV fluids to protect kidney function
Medications to prevent stomach ulcers and bleeding
Blood and urine testing to monitor organ function
Hospitalization for ongoing monitoring
In severe cases, advanced interventions such as dialysis or other intensive therapy/supportive care may be required.
At VEG ER for Pets emergency vet hospitals, we see our fair share of ibuprofen cases. If you'd like to read personal accounts of how we treated this accidental ingestion, we have two good reads for you:
Jetson's story, about a Blue Nose Pitbull puppy who ate an entire bottle of ibuprofen.
Riku's story, just shy of two-years-old, this little dog ate approximately 10-20 ibuprofen tablets.
How to prevent ibuprofen poisoning in dogs?
The good news? Ibuprofen poisoning may be easily preventable. Taking these few simple precautions can help keep your dog safe:
Store all medications out of reach of pets in closed cabinets or containers
Never leave pills on counters, nightstands, or in bags
Remind family members/pet sitters that human medications are unsafe for dogs
Never give your dog medication unless it is specifically prescribed for them
If your dog is in pain, always consult your primary care vet or call VEG for advice
Dog-safe alternatives to ibuprofen
Dogs can receive pain relief — but only with veterinary-approved medications. Your primary care vet may prescribe dog-specific NSAIDs or other pain-management options depending on your pet’s condition and overall health. These medications are carefully dosed and monitored to reduce risk.
Pain-management strategies for dogs may include:
Prescription medications
Joint supplements
Physical therapy
Weight management
Targeted rehabilitation
Never substitute human pain relievers, including Advil, Motrin, Aleve, or aspirin, without veterinary guidance.
Dog ate ibuprofen, when is it an emergency?
Ibuprofen exposure is always considered an emergency, even if your dog looks fine.
Seek emergency veterinary care immediately if:
Your dog may have ingested ibuprofen
You’re unsure how much was eaten
Symptoms appear mild—or haven’t started yet
When it comes to toxin exposure, waiting can make outcomes worse and even fatal.
VEG ER for Pets is open 24/7 to help if your dog ate ibuprofen
Just call or walk in to your nearest VEG 24-hour emergency animal hospital. Our expert veterinarian doctors, vet nurses, and assistants are equipped to handle dog (and all pet) emergencies with compassion and great care… so your four-legged pal can be their normal, lovable self as soon as possible!
