When your tummy is upset, you may turn to Pepto-Bismol for some relief.
You may be wondering whether this bright pink medication can be similarly effective for your dog.
You can give your dog Pepto-Bismol, but it’s important to make a deliberate decision about giving this medication to your dog since there can be side effects and downsides to using it.
That said, here’s what you need to know about giving your dog Pepto-Bismol, both when it may be effective and when you should think twice about using it.
Before we discuss the details of Pepto-Bismol use in dogs, we should first state that you should never give your dog any over the counter medication without your vet’s approval.
Should I Give My Dog Pepto-Bismol Tablets Or Liquid?
It is up to you whether you want to give your dog tablets or liquid Pepto-Bismol.
The ingredients are very similar for both and both can be effective for alleviating stomach problems.
Which works best for you may depend on how your dog feels about the taste of Pepto.
Some dogs enjoy the taste, whereas others won’t willingly consume it.
You may find it easier to hide tablets or liquid depending on your dog’s food or treats.
Many people find it easier to hide tablets than liquid.
How Much Pepto-Bismol Can I Give My Dog?
Though these are the standard dosing instructions for Pepto-Bismol, you should not offer it to your dog without veterinary approval.
- Liquid – One teaspoon per 10 lbs every 6 to 8 hours of regular strength liquid Pepto-Bismol
- Tablet – 8.5mg per pound of regular strength chewable tablets
How To Give Your Dog Pepto-Bismol
For some dogs, you can effectively hide Pepto-Bismol in food or treats.
Some dogs even like the taste and will happily lap up the liquid or down a tablet without a second thought.
However, some dogs are very perceptive of hidden Pepto-Bismol and not fond of the taste.
For these dogs, you may need to use a syringe without a needle and slip the medication into the back of your dog’s mouth.
Holding the muzzle closed is a good way to make sure that they swallow it.
Can I Give My Dog Pepto-Bismol For Gas?
Usually, we think about Pepto-Bismol for diarrhea or vomiting.
However, it can also be effective for gas.
It can be especially useful if your dog is suffering from a combination of symptoms, such as gas with diarrhea.
Potential Downsides Of Giving Your Dog Pepto-Bismol
Stool Color
If you give your dog Pepto-Bismol, it can turn the stool a green-black color.
This is perfectly normal, however, it can cause some issues.
The dark color can hide blood in the stool, making it challenging for an owner to spot.
Blood in the stool is a sign that something may be seriously wrong with your dog.
If you give your dog Pepto-Bismol for an upset stomach, you could unintentionally be hiding symptoms of what’s really going on with your dog.
Shows Up On X-Rays
If your dog is having serious stomach upset, especially for some time, your veterinarian will likely want to do imaging to make sure that there is not an obstruction in their stomach or intestines.
However, Pepto-Bismol tablets will show up as opaque on x-rays.
The tablets can be mistaken for a foreign body or they can hide the actual foreign body.
Either way, this is a serious potential downside of giving your dog Pepto-Bismol tablets.
Potential Overdose
Dosing can be confusing when you are giving a medication that is designed for people to your dog.
You may be unclear about how much Pepto you can give your dog.
Overdosing your dog on Pepto-Bismol can be very dangerous.
If you give your dog Pepto, they may become interested in it and seek it out, making it more likely that they will accidentally overdose on it.
The taste of Pepto-Bismol can be appealing for some dogs.
If your dog gets too much Pepto-Bismol, either because you dosed them incorrectly or because they got a hold of the medication and consumed it by themselves, they can have serious symptoms of overdose including:
- Bloody stool or increase diarrhea
- Increased vomiting
- A high fever
- Labored and rapid breathing
- Seizures or tremors
- Collapse
Possible Side Effects
If you give your dog Pepto they are unlikely to have any side effects, and if they do have side effects, they are unlikely to be serious.
However, it’s good to keep your eye out for side effects that may be caused by this medication:
- Constipation
- Green, black, or gray stool
- A darkened tongue
- Much more rarely: gastric bleeding or shortness of breath
Which Dogs Should Not Have Pepto-Bismol?
Many dogs tolerate Pepto-Bismol just fine, but certain dogs should never have it:
- Dogs who are allergic. Carefully consult the list of ingredients in Pepto-Bismol to be certain that your dog won’t have an allergic reaction to any of these ingredients. If you’re unsure, ask your veterinarian.
- Pregnant and nursing dogs. It’s best that dogs not have Pepto-Bismol if they are pregnant or nursing. The effects on very young puppies are not well understood.
- Dogs with bleeding disorders. Pepto-Bismol can make a bleeding disorder worse, so dogs that have these kinds of disorders should not be given the medication.
- Dogs who are taking aspirin or antibiotics. These medications may not mix well with Pepto-Bismol, so you should talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s current medications before offering Pepto-Bismol.
- Puppies. Vomiting and diarrhea can indicate very serious illnesses in puppies, and puppies are at high risk for dehydration when they are suffering from these symptoms, so if your puppy is having vomiting or diarrhea, you should bring them to the veterinarian to be treated rather than treating them yourself with Pepto-Bismol.
Alternatives to Pepto-Bismol
No Treatment
While you can give your dog Pepto-Bismol for a mild case of GI upset, it is not always necessary.
Dogs can get an upset stomach for many reasons, some of which are mostly harmless.
Your dog may have eaten something they should not have, they may be experiencing stress, or they may be reacting to vaccines or monthly flea and heartworm prevention.
It may be best to wait for 12 to 24 hours before you offer any home treatments that could further complicate their illness.
It’s important to keep your dog hydrated, particularly if they are suffering from diarrhea, but it may be a good idea to fast them during this time.
Just be sure to get your vet’s approval, as fasting can be dangerous for some pups.
Plain Canned Pumpkin
Many people find that adding a healthy source of fiber like pumpkin can alleviate gastro upset.
Be sure that there are no spices, sugars, or other additives.
Chicken And Rice
Changing your dog’s diet to a bland combination of boiled chicken and plain rice can help them get over their tummy upset.
This is a great solution if you are worried that something in your dog’s food may be causing stomach problems.
Corrective Suspension
This is a simple medication that is a great treatment for diarrhea for all kinds of animals, including dogs.
Typically it is only available from your veterinarian, but it can be a good safe treatment for your dog’s diarrhea if your veterinarian agrees.
Imodium
Imodium is a good alternative to Pepto-Bismol.
The dosage is generally 2 mg per 40lbs of body weight two or three times a day in tablet form.
You may find this medication easier to give and it may be more effective for some dogs than Pepto-Bismol.
Check with your veterinarian and discuss all the medications your dog is on before giving Imodium.
Pepcid
Pepcid is a good option if you think that your dog’s stomach upset is due to acid build-up.
You can give your dog 10mg for every 20lbs of body weight once or twice a day.
The original Pepcid is a good option, but avoid other variations like Pepcid Complete since they have a combination of drugs.
If your dog’s gastro upset is primarily vomiting and if you notice them frequently swallowing as if they have reflux, Pepcid may be the right medication for your dog.
When to Go to The Vet
It’s a good idea to talk to your veterinarian about your dog’s symptoms from the beginning.
You may want to let them know that your dog is going through some stomach upset and make sure they are okay with you trying an at-home treatment.
Depending on your dog’s history and what medications they are on, your veterinarian may recommend that you bring them in immediately rather than trying an at-home treatment.
If your veterinarian is okay with you giving Pepto-Bismol to your dog and waiting to bring them in, you can certainly try treating your dog’s problems at home for a few days.
However, if your dog’s condition worsens, they appear to be getting dehydrated, they refuse to eat or drink, or you notice blood in the stool at any point, it’s important to go to your veterinarian immediately.
If you notice that your dog’s stomach feels hard or their abdomen is sensitive to the touch, it may also be an emergency due to bloat or an obstruction, in which case going to the veterinarian immediately is necessary.
If you are not sure whether you will need to bring your dog to the vet or not, you may want to schedule an appointment so that you can avoid going to the emergency vet if possible.
You can always cancel the appointment if your dog improves.
Your Dog Can Have Pepto
Most dogs can safely have Pepto-Bismol to control gas, vomiting, diarrhea, and other gastrointestinal symptoms.
However, it is not safe for every dog or every situation.
It is best to talk to your veterinarian before you attempt an at-home treatment with Pepto-Bismol.
With your veterinarian’s approval, Pepto-Bismol can be an effective and affordable home treatment for mild gastro symptoms in your dog.
Amber LaRock
My name is Amber. I am a dedicated animal lover that turned my passion into my career. I am a Licensed Vet Tech with 12 years of experience in veterinary medicine, but I recently took my career online to help spread accurate information on animal care. With how vast the online world is, I have a strong desire to ensure that the reader always walks away with helpful pet advice. With the experience I’ve gained from my time in this field, I have been able to travel the world, offering my services to as many animal rescues as I can find. If I am not at my laptop, or back home visiting family, you can find me somewhere in the world, cuddling every furry friend that I can find! More About Us
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FAQs
What's the best way to give a dog Pepto Bismol? ›
How to administer Pepto-Bismol to Dogs: Use an empty (no needle) plastic syringe to give your dog the medication. Open his mouth, place the empty syringe toward the back of the tongue and push the plunger, then hold his muzzle for a second to ensure he swallows it.
What kind of Pepto Bismol is safe for dogs? ›Just like us, dogs can get diarrhea, indigestion, or an upset stomach. And, just like us, dogs can get relief by taking bismuth subsalicylate. Corrective Suspension is a brand formulated specifically for dogs, but dogs can also take the same off-the-shelf Pepto Bismol that we do.
How long does it take for Pepto Bismol to work on dogs? ›Pepto-Bismol is effective in treating minor gastrointestinal distress for a short period. The effects of Pepto-Bismol should show up within 24 to 48 hours. As mentioned, if your dog's diarrhea, vomiting, or constipation doesn't stop within this period, contact your veterinarian.
What settles a dog's stomach? ›Chicken and rice are prime ingredients in many dog foods, and these mild foods sit well on upset canine stomachs. Plus, this bland meal is easy to prepare. All you need are boneless, skinless chicken breasts and rice.
What can I give my dog for an upset stomach over-the-counter? ›Bismuth subsalicylate (Pepto-Bismol®) is commonly kept in medicine cabinets for digestive upsets and can be administered to your dog.
What are the side effects of Pepto-Bismol in dogs? ›Pepto Bismol can cause dogs' stools to turn a greenish-black color and, “as a result, it can be difficult to discern if your dog is experiencing melena (blood in the stool), which presents as black, tarry stools and can be indicative of a serious medical issue,” Wallach says.
Is Pepto-Bismol good for a dog's upset stomach? ›Wondering if Pepto-Bismol for dogs is a safe way to soothe your pup's upset tummy? Unfortunately, the answer is typically “no.” Integrative veterinarian Dr.
What is a home remedy for dog diarrhea? ›Withholding food for 12 to 24 hours, and providing water in small amounts frequently, can clear the cause of the upset and allow the gastrointestinal tract to settle. It's usually the first line of attack for diarrhea. Before you decide on a fast, be sure that your dog is healthy enough to endure it.
What are the signs of upset stomach in dogs? ›Signs of an Upset Stomach in a Dog
The most obvious symptoms are vomiting, diarrhea, pacing, or loss of appetite. If your dog is having severe vomiting, fever, or bloody diarrhea, you need to visit a vet immediately. Any of these symptoms may signal that something serious is going on with your dog.
Additionally, you should give them peanut butter in moderation—too much poses a problem for pet health in terms of both stomach upset in the short run and obesity in the long run. Although dogs can eat peanut butter, they cannot eat all nut butters. For instance, dogs can tolerate cashews but not macadamia nuts.
How do I reset my dogs stomach? ›
- Withhold food for 12 to 24 hours. Withholding food for a time gives your pup's digestive tract a chance to calm down and reset itself. ...
- Keep your dog hydrated. Dogs often lose body fluids when they vomit or have diarrhea. ...
- Prepare a bland diet.
- Withhold food.
- Provide your dog with ice cubes.
- Give your dog bone broth to drink.
- Feed your dog canned pumpkin.
While Benadryl often makes people drowsy, it has less of an effect on dogs. Still, it can reduce anxiety for some dogs and may help with nausea, such as car sickness.
Do bananas help a dogs upset stomach? ›Bananas have high fiber content, which can help with gastrointestinal issues in dogs. However, this is somewhat offset by their sugar content. Too much sugar (or fiber) can cause your dog to have diarrhea. Typically, the fiber in the banana should help your dog have healthier bowel movements.
What are the signs of pancreatitis in dogs? ›What are the clinical signs of pancreatitis? The most common clinical signs include nausea, vomiting, fever, lethargy, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and decreased appetite. During an attack, dogs may take a 'praying position', with their rear end up in the air and their front legs and head lowered onto the floor.
Is human Pepto Bismol safe for dogs? ›No, Pepto Bismol is not safe for dogs!
One of the main reasons for this is that it contains subsalicylate … a form of aspirin. You shouldn't give your dog any form of aspirin, especially when there are safe and natural options.
Metronidazole (Flagyl) is a commonly prescribed antibiotic for dogs with diarrhea and other gastrointestinal problems.
What is the most common cause of diarrhea in dogs? ›Eating garbage or spoiled food. Ingestion of foreign objects such as toys, bones, and fabric. Ingesting toxins or poisons. Viral infections such as parvovirus, distemper or coronavirus.
Is scrambled egg good for dogs with diarrhea? ›Scrambled eggs are a good option for dogs with diarrhea because they are easy to digest and packed full of protein. Dogs who have been vomiting or eating stool may not be able to handle the high-fat content but scrambled egg is one of the best options out there.
Why does my dog have diarrhea but is acting fine? ›My dog has diarrhea but is acting fine? If your dog has diarrhea but is acting fine and isn't displaying any other symptoms, the issue is contained in the GI. This means it's more than likely that your dog ate something that isn't agreeing with them or has a parasite infection.
How many days does upset stomach last in dogs? ›
Thankfully, most upset stomachs should clear up within 48 hours. However, digestive issues can continue longer if the underlying cause is a long-term problem – examples can be chronic stress, a food allergy (if no dietary changes have been made), or an untreated health condition.
How do dogs lay when their stomach hurts? ›A dog acting lethargic may be trying to minimize discomfort. They may also stay in a scrunched-up or tense position, similar to how humans will clutch their stomach. Finally, your dog may start stretching its front paws out repeatedly in a doggie bow.
Is Pepto Bismol good for a dog's upset stomach? ›If Pepto Bismol helps for our upset stomachs, you may also wonder, “Can I give my dog Pepto Bismol?” Pepto Bismol (bismuth subsalicylate) can be used to safely reduce a dog's symptoms of nausea, heartburn, gurgling, uncomfortable stomach and most effectively, diarrhea.
Will Pepto Bismol settle my dogs stomach? ›Wondering if Pepto-Bismol for dogs is a safe way to soothe your pup's upset tummy? Unfortunately, the answer is typically “no.” Integrative veterinarian Dr. Julie Buzby explains how a seemingly innocent Pepto-Bismol tablet almost led one of her patients to have an unnecessary surgery.
How much Pepto do I give a dog to throw up? ›Pepto Bismol Dosage for Dogs. Chewable tablet dosage: When giving the chewable tablets to your dog, it's recommended that the medicine is administered at a dosage of 8.5 mg per 1 pound (Regular Strength Pepto Bismol Chewable Tablets).
Is Pepto Bismol for dogs chewable? ›Pepto Bismol Ultra contains twice the amount of active ingredient and must never be used in dogs. The caplet form should also be avoided. Therefore, stick to the regular Pepto Bismol liquid and chewable tablets when using Pepto Bismol for dogs.
How do I know if my dogs stomach hurts? ›Signs of an Upset Stomach in a Dog
There are a variety of symptoms that indicate your dog may be experiencing stomach pain. The most obvious symptoms are vomiting, diarrhea, pacing, or loss of appetite. If your dog is having severe vomiting, fever, or bloody diarrhea, you need to visit a vet immediately.
Bismuth Poisoning
High doses of Pepto-Bismol can be toxic to dogs and may cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, lethargy, and neurological signs, including weakness and wobbliness (ataxia). Long-term use of Pepto-Bismol may damage the kidneys.