medication
Ibuprofen
IMMEDIATE VET ATTENTION
Ibuprofen is extremely toxic to dogs. It causes stomach ulcers, kidney failure and can be fatal.
If your dog has eaten this item, contact your vet or an emergency veterinary service now.
If your dog is showing symptoms such as difficulty breathing, seizures, collapse, severe vomiting, unconsciousness or other serious symptoms, seek emergency veterinary care immediately.
What to do
Contact your vet or emergency poisons service immediately, even if your dog seems fine.
When to contact a vet: Emergency vet attention immediately. Bring the bottle or packaging.
Symptoms to look for
- vomiting
- black tarry stools
- abdominal pain
- excessive thirst
- frequent urination
- lethargy
- seizures
- collapse
Why
Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that dogs cannot tolerate. It causes severe stomach ulcers that can perforate, and it damages the kidneys. Even a single tablet can be life-threatening for a small dog. Symptoms may be delayed, so early treatment is essential.
- Substances of concern
- ibuprofen
- Safer parts
- {}
- Parts to avoid
- {"any ibuprofen tablet","gel capsules","liquid formulations","combination cold remedies"}
- Preparation
- No home preparation is safe.
- How much matters
- Toxic at low doses. One 200 mg tablet can be dangerous for a small to medium dog.
- Severity
- Severe
Sources
- ASPCA Animal Poison ControlPrimary authoritative — Medication
- Pet Poison HelplinePrimary authoritative — Medication
Information reviewed against recognised veterinary and animal-safety sources. Source organisations are independent of Is It For Dogs unless otherwise stated.
Last reviewed 6 September 2026 · next review due September 2027.
Safety classifications are based on available expert and veterinary information. Individual dogs may react differently, particularly dogs with allergies, existing health conditions or specific dietary requirements.
Important: Is It For Dogs provides general information about the safety of foods, plants, drinks, ingredients and other items around dogs. Our information is based on sources we consider reliable and is intended to help dog owners make informed decisions. It is not a substitute for advice from a qualified veterinary professional. Read more
Dogs can react differently depending on their size, age, health, allergies, medications, the amount consumed and other circumstances. An item classified as Safe is not necessarily suitable for every individual dog.
If your dog has eaten something potentially poisonous or dangerous, has eaten an unknown substance, or is showing concerning symptoms, contact your veterinarian or an emergency veterinary service immediately.
Do not induce vomiting or give your dog medication unless specifically instructed to do so by a veterinary professional.