How Much Pepto Bismol For Dogs

Want to find out the correct Pepto Bismol dosage for dogs? Read on to find out!

What Is Pepto Bismol

Pepto Bismol is an anti-inflammatory and antacid medication sold in the shape of pink pills. It is used to treat stomach problems such as heartburn, nausea, diarrhoea and indigestion.  It contains bismuth subsalicylate,

Pepto Bismol can work wonders in humans, but will it have the same effect on your dog?

Stomach Upsets In Dogs

Diarrhoea is never pleasant, but it can also be quite dangerous where canines are concerned. If your dog has diarrhoea, they are losing nutrients and water from their body and, if it is not being replenished, your dog could get severely dehydrated.

You should check with your vet if your dog has diarrhoea to establish the best course of action.

Is Pepto Bismol Safe For Dogs?

While Pepto-Bismol is safe for most dogs, there is a chance it could cause gastric bleeding in dogs. Pepto-Bismol should only be given to your dog after you consult with a vet.

Your vet will also confirm how much Pepto Bismol you should give your dog. While you can find guidelines below, your dog may require a different dose.

You should normally avoid using human medication on a dog. Humans and dogs have very different bodies and ingredients which are perfectly safe for a human could be toxic for a dog.

Pepto Bismol comes in multiple forms. You should only give your dogs the chewing tablets or liquid.

If you give your dog Pepto Bismol, keep an eye on the strength.  Extra strength formulas will have higher doses of bismuth subsalicylate, which your dog could overdose on if they have too much.

What Is The Correct Pepto-Bismol Dosage For Dogs?

Dogs should be given one teaspoon of the liquid for every ten pounds or 8.5 mg of the chewable tablets for every pound. Pepto-Bismol should be offered every 6-8 hours for the first few doses.

If symptoms persist, stop giving the dog the medication and contact your vet for advice. Pepto-Bismol should not be given to your dog longer than five days maximum. If it doesn’t work after the first few doses, it is unlikely to work at all and could make things worse.

How To Tell If Pepto Bismol Is Giving My Dog Side Effects?

Pepto Bismol can be perfectly safe for dogs, but it has the potential to cause side effects including:

• Loss of appetite
• Vomiting
• Dark/black stools
• Blood/mucus in stools
• Lethargy
• Constipation
• Straining while/after defecating.

While these side effects are (and should be) concerning, they are fairly rare. The most common side effect is constipation, black stools or a discoloured tongue.

How Do I Give Pepto Bismol To My Dog?

If you are feeding the chewable tablets to your dog, you may want to add it to their food or disguise it in a treat.

If you’re giving your dog the liquid form, you should be fine to squirt it into your dog’s mouth via a plastic syringe.

Is Pepto Bismol Suitable For Pregnant Dogs?

No, Pepto Bismol is not a good idea for expectant or new mothers.

Summary

Pepto Bismol can be safe and useful for treating stomach upsets in dogs, but it does have potential side effects.

Consult with your vet before giving your dog Pepto Bismol as they can tell you the correct dose for your specific dog and may recommend you use another form of treatment.