✓ Reviewed against PDSA, Blue Cross & Animal PoisonLine guidance · Last reviewed: 2026-06
Can dogs eat ibuprofen?
The full picture
Ibuprofen is one of the most common causes of NSAID poisoning in dogs in the UK. The toxic dose is low — gastric ulceration occurs at around 50 mg/kg, kidney damage at 175 mg/kg. Standard adult ibuprofen tablets are 200mg or 400mg, meaning a 10kg dog eating two 200mg tablets is in the kidney-damage zone.
Dogs metabolise ibuprofen more slowly than humans and the toxic threshold is much lower.
UK brand names: Nurofen, Brufen, Advil, Calprofen (children's ibuprofen liquid). Topical ibuprofen creams (Ibuleve, Fenbid Gel) are also dangerous if licked from owner's skin.
If your dog has already eaten ibuprofen
Call your vet or the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 IMMEDIATELY — within 1–2 hours, your vet may induce vomiting. Bring the packet so they can calculate the dose by weight. Treatment includes activated charcoal, IV fluids for 48+ hours, gastric protectants, and bloods to monitor liver and kidney function.
Risks to watch for
- Stomach ulcers and perforation
- Vomiting blood, black tarry stools
- Acute kidney failure
- Seizures, coma at high doses
- Death within 24–48 hours without treatment
What to watch for — and when
2–6 hours: vomiting, lethargy. 6–24 hours: vomiting blood, abdominal pain. 24–72 hours: kidney signs, collapse.
Hidden sources to check
- Nurofen, Brufen, Advil, Calprofen (children's liquid)
- Own-brand ibuprofen tablets and capsules
- Topical pain gels (Ibuleve, Fenbid Gel) — dogs lick treated skin
- Combination cold and flu products
Breed-specific notes
- Small breeds at greater risk
- Dogs already on any NSAID or steroid at much higher risk
- Senior dogs with kidney disease at greatly elevated risk
Safe portion size
There is no safe dose. For pain relief, dog-specific NSAIDs (meloxicam, carprofen) are safe and effective.
Safer alternatives
- Carprofen (Rimadyl) — vet prescribed
- Meloxicam (Metacam) — most common UK veterinary NSAID
- Gabapentin for nerve pain (vet prescription)
While you're checking what your dog can safely eat, make sure their flea and worm protection is up to date too.
Common questions
My dog licked my Ibuleve gel — is that dangerous?
What's the difference between ibuprofen toxicity and paracetamol toxicity?
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