Can I give my dog pepto bismol?

When your dog has an upset stomach, indigestion or diarrhea, you may consider reaching for the well-known pink bottle called Pepto Bismol. As a responsible owner, you obviously want to confirm if this medicine is appropriate for canine use.

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The most popular brand for bismuth subsalicylate is Pepto Bismol and you’ll be happy to know that side effects associated with this over-the-counter product are relatively rare. So, when properly used, Pepto is not dangerous for the family dog.

It’s certainly true that pets get their fair share of stomachaches, but it is important to understand that using Pepto Bismol isn’t always necessary. When your dog throws up, or has a bowel movement, it will likely improve matters. In any case, learn more about the use of this OTC liquid for your Fido’s sake.

Can I Give My Dog Pepto Bismol? Answer: Yes

You can administer this household medicine but it may be unnecessary.

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Whenever you give a human medicine to your dog, you should first consult with a vet and this goes for Pepto Bismol as well. While this popular pink potion isn’t know to be harmful, there may be better alternatives such as a canine-formulated probiotic. If you do provide Pepto Bismol, be sure that your dog gets the appropriate dose based on their body weight. Nursing or pregnant animals should not be given this medicine under any scenario.

Serious or recurring stomach problems, not just a tummy ache, need to be evaluated by a professional.

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Human vs Canine Treatment

When dogs get an upset stomach or diarrhea, it’s different than when we experience the same symptoms. Such human problems can go on for days. Instead of suffering, we typically take something to help ease the discomfort. If we are backed up we’ll take a laxative. For diarrhea cramps we’ll take a medicine, like Pepto Bismol, to help with the looseness and irregularity.

But your dog’s stomach problems typically will not last for very long. They have quicker digestion but they can also handle such issues on their own. If they cannot digest what’s causing the trouble, they will usually vomit it up. If they are experiencing diarrhea, they just soldier through because it won’t last too long.

So you likely don’t need to be overly concerned unless your dog’s problem is recurring or chronic. In such cases, products like Pepto-Bismol won’t be sufficient to address it anyway.

Dog Dosing of Pepto Bismol

Do not give your dog more then 1.5ml of Pepto Bismol per pound of their body weight over any 12-hour period. It’s important to ask your vet about the proper dose for your pet dog’s particular situation. They may consider several factors in addition to body weight. There are so many different types of Pepto Bismol, with different strengths, so providing exact dosing information is irresponsible.

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The Use of OTC Medications

Try not to get into the habit of using medications like Pepto Bismol or Kaopectate on your dog. Every little problem, that you think they may be experiencing, does not require the use of such medicines. Even though you may not do any harm, these OTC human products were not developed with pets in mind and should only be used as a last resort.

Taking a trial and error approach, even with Pepto, is something that you want to avoid as a responsible owner.

Conclusion on Pepto-Bismol

Pepto Bismol can be used on dogs but a vet can more effectively help you to treat your dog’s stomach issues. This is especially true if your dog is dealing with recurring digestive symptoms. Such long term problems cannot be effectively treated with Pepto. This branded Bismuth subsalicylate only works for short-term mild stomach discomfort and/or diarrhea. If your dog has a chronic gastrointestinal condition then seek professional help.

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