Pepto-Bismol is a well-known, popular over-the-counter medication that helps humans deal with tummy problems. Some human meds are safe for dogs, and Pepto-Bismol is one of them.
Humans use this medication to deal with problems like diarrhea and vomiting, and dogs can take it for the same reasons. Visiting a vet every time your dog gets diarrhea is not the most practical thing, and mostly there is nothing seriously wrong with them. If you are a dog owner, you noticed that dogs often have stomach problems that cause diarrhea or vomiting.
Pepto-Bismol is a human medication that all dog owners should have at home because minor tummy problems can be handled with it. Not only is it great for us, but it is also great for our dogs.
Before you decide to give your dog Pepto-Bismol, there are some things you should know, like the proper dosage, side-effects, and potential dangers. We will help with this information and let you know all you need to know about giving your dog Pepto-Bismol.
Keep in mind never to give your dog any medication without consulting your vet first.
Pepto-Bismol is a brand of bismuth subsalicylate-based medication that is great for relieving stomach problems. It is available in caplets, liquid formulations, and liquicaps. Pepto-Bismol is an over-the-counter medication that can be bought in pharmacies and grocery stores around the US, and you don’t need a doctor’s prescription to get it.
Dogs often have diarrhea, and dog owners should know how to handle that problem. Here is an article that can help you with that: Dog Diarrhea – What You Need To Know.
The shortest possible answer would be – yes. However, there are some circumstances when you shouldn’t give your dog Pepto-Bismol, and you should never give your dog any medication, both dog or human, without talking to your vet first.
You might be wondering how Pepto-Bismol can help your dog, and the truth is that it can help with different symptoms and problems. If your dog has mild diarrhea, indigestion, or gas, Pepto-Bismol can ease or completely stop these problems. However, this should never be your first option.
Suppose you find yourself in a situation where your dogs have gastrointestinal problems, and you probably will since dogs have sensitive stomachs. In that case, vets recommend these three steps – calling them, adding pumpkin, or just doing nothing.
Contacting your vet and asking for advice is not the first thing you should do. You can observe your dog’s symptoms, and if they are not gone in 24 hours, you should call your vet and ask for advice.
Depending on your dog’s size, you can add plain canned pumpkin to their everyday meal. Pumpkin contains fiber that will harden your dog’s stool.
Most dog stomach problems will go away on their own. Sometimes, just doing nothing is the best possible course of action. Give your dog plenty of water and observe their symptoms.
Dogs have delicate stomachs, and different things can upset them and cause them to vomit. There is a difference between serious problems and just relieving their upset stomach. Here is something that can help you learn the difference: Dog Vomiting: Reasons, Symptoms & Diagnose.
If you decide to “self-medicate,” you must give your dog the right Pepto-Bismol dosage. Giving them too little won’t benefit your dog in any way, and giving them too much can cause an overdose that can be fatal.
The general formula for liquid Pepto-Bismol is 1 teaspoon for every 10 pounds. Chewable capsules are different, and they should be given like this – 8,5 mg for every pound a dog weighs. Check out the Pepto-Bismol tablet dosage chart for dogs.
Having a medicine cabinet at home is always a good idea, and adding medications that can aid you and your dog is even a better one. Check out the latest price on Pepto-Bismol for dogs.
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Reviewed for accuracy on December 9, 2019 by JoAnna Pendergrass, DVM.
Pepto Bismol, or more generically known as bismuth subsalicylate, is an antacid and stomach soother popular among humans. But can it be used for dogs? The quick answer is yes, but with some reservations (and do not give to cats).
Dogs frequently have GI issues – in fact, stomach complaints top the list of reasons why pet parents bring their dogs into the vet. For minor conditions that include indigestion, mild diarrhea, and gas, Pepto can help alleviate discomfort and in some cases, stop the symptom.
Side Effects
Side effects are rare and usually mild. The most common side effects are constipation, oddly colored stools (grey, black, or green), or a darkened tongue. If your dog exhibits shortness of breath or starts acting “off,” get to an emergency vet clinic immediately and let them know any prescription drugs he’s on, including the Pepto. They can check for gastric bleeding or other rare complications.
What Dogs Should Not Take Pepto Bismol?
When is Pepto Bismol bad for dogs? Pepto Bismol is unsafe for dogs who fall into the categories listed below. Again, always check with your vet before giving your dog Pepto Bismol.
The following dosage recommendations are for regular strength Pepto Bismol liquid or chewable tablets. Do not give your dog Ultra Pepto Bismol, which is concentrated with twice the amount of bismuth subsalicylate. This 2X concentrate is unsafe for your pup. Also, do not give your dog Pepto Bismol caplets. If you’ve never given your dog Pepto Bismol before, talk to your vet first to make sure it’s safe for your pup.
The recommended liquid dosage is 1 teaspoon (5 ml) for every 10 pounds. You can give it to your pup every 6 to 8 hours, but don’t give more than a few doses or for longer than 24 hours. If your dog is still having stomach issues after a few doses, contact your vet.
The best way to give your dog the liquid is to use a plastic syringe. Place the syringe toward the back of your dog’s tongue and slowly push the plunger. Then hold his muzzle to make sure he swallows it.
| Dog Weight (Pounds) | Dosage (Teaspoons) |
|---|---|
| 10 | 1 |
| 20 | 2 |
| 30 | 3 |
| 40 | 4 |
| 50 | 5 |
| 60 | 6 |
| 70 | 7 |
| 80 | 8 |
| 90 | 9 |
| 100 | 10 |
The recommended tablet dosage is 8.5 mg per 1 pound. Keep in mind, this can get difficult to calculate and cut up the tablets to the specific dosage for your dog’s weight. For example, a 20-pound dog would take 65% of one tablet based on this recommended dosage. Here’s a Pepto Bismol tablet dosage chart for dogs to help you figure out how to divide the tablets up based on your dog’s weight.
| Dog Weight (Pounds) | Dosage (mg) | Dosage (Tablet*) |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 85 | 0.30 |
| 20 | 170 | 0.60 |
| 30 | 255 | 1.00 |
| 40 | 340 | 1.30 |
| 50 | 425 | 1.60 |
| 60 | 510 | 2.00 |
| 70 | 595 | 2.25 |
| 80 | 680 | 2.60 |
| 90 | 765 | 3.00 |
| 100 | 850 | 3.25 |
*Based off of a chewable tablet that is 262mg
Here are some of the questions our readers ask most often about Pepto Bismol and dogs.