Can dogs eat aspirin?
The full picture
Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) was historically given to dogs for pain relief, and old advice forums still recommend 'a small dose of children's aspirin' for joint pain. This advice is outdated and unsafe. Dogs metabolise aspirin much more slowly than humans, so accumulated doses cause significant gastric lining damage, bleeding ulcers, and acute kidney injury. Even at the doses historically used (10–20 mg/kg), gastrointestinal bleeding is common. The widespread availability of safe dog-specific NSAIDs (carprofen, meloxicam, firocoxib) means there is no longer any reason to use aspirin for canine pain. UK brand names include Aspro, Disprin, Anadin Original, Beechams Powders, and most own-brand aspirin tablets. Combination products with codeine (Co-codaprin) carry additional risks from the codeine.
If your dog has already eaten aspirin
Call your vet or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 immediately, especially if your dog has eaten more than one tablet or shows signs of vomiting blood, black or tarry stools, or unusual lethargy. Bring the packet so dose can be calculated by weight. Treatment includes inducing vomiting (if very recent), gastric protectants (sucralfate, omeprazole), IV fluids, and monitoring for bleeding.
Risks to watch for
- Stomach ulcers and gastrointestinal bleeding
- Vomiting blood ('coffee grounds' appearance)
- Black or tarry stools (melena)
- Acute kidney injury
- Liver damage at high doses
- Increased bleeding from any wound or surgery
Safe portion size
There is no safe dose without specific veterinary direction. Your vet can prescribe dog-safe NSAIDs that don't carry these risks.
Safer alternatives
- Carprofen (Rimadyl) — vet-prescribed dog-specific NSAID
- Meloxicam (Metacam) — common UK veterinary anti-inflammatory
- Gabapentin or amantadine for chronic pain (vet prescription)
- Joint supplements (green-lipped mussel, glucosamine, omega-3) for long-term joint support
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