Go to a vet now
Call your vet or poison control now. Ibuprofen is toxic to dogs: it can cause stomach ulcers, kidney failure and, at high doses, seizures. Even a single 200 mg tablet can be risky for a small dog.
What to do right now
- Count the missing tablets and note the strength (usually 200 mg).
- Calculate the dose: mg eaten ÷ dog's weight in kg.
- Call your vet or poison control right away.
- Bring the package to the vet.
Why ibuprofen can be dangerous for dogs
Ibuprofen blocks prostaglandins that protect the stomach lining and maintain blood flow to the kidneys. Dogs are much more sensitive than people. Merck lists stomach and gut signs from single doses of about 100-125 mg/kg, kidney failure at 175-300 mg/kg, seizures above 400 mg/kg and potentially fatal doses above 600 mg/kg; repeated lower doses can cause ulcers.
Symptoms to watch for
- Vomiting (sometimes with blood) and diarrhea
- Black, tarry stool
- Loss of appetite and abdominal pain
- Increased thirst and urination, or reduced urine (kidney injury)
- Wobbliness, seizures or coma (very high doses)
What not to do
- Never give your dog ibuprofen, naproxen or aspirin for pain unless prescribed. Vets use dog-specific pain relievers.
What the vet will do
Treatment may include inducing vomiting, activated charcoal, stomach protectants, IV fluids for 48-72 hours to protect the kidneys, and blood tests.
Related guides
Dog ate ibuprofen: FAQ
How much ibuprofen is toxic to a dog?
Merck lists stomach and gut signs at single doses of about 100-125 mg/kg and kidney failure at 175-300 mg/kg, but ulcers can occur at much lower repeated doses. Any ingestion should be discussed with a vet.
What pain medicine can I give my dog?
None from your medicine cabinet without your vet's advice. Vets prescribe dog-safe anti-inflammatories such as carprofen or meloxicam.
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Sources
- Merck Veterinary Manual: Toxicoses From Human Analgesics in Animals
- ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
This guide is general information, not a diagnosis. Every pet is different: when in doubt, call your vet or an animal poison control line.