Dogs should never be given aspirin without direct guidance from a veterinarian, and it is generally considered an unsafe home treatment option. Even small “human” doses can cause serious side effects and may not provide reliable pain relief.
Why aspirin is risky
Aspirin is a human nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can cause stomach ulcers, intestinal bleeding, kidney damage, and problems with blood clotting in dogs, even at doses some owners consider “small.” These risks are higher if aspirin is given repeatedly, combined with other medications, or used in puppies, seniors, or dogs with existing kidney, liver, stomach, or bleeding issues.
Vet use versus home use
Veterinarians sometimes prescribe carefully calculated doses of aspirin for specific conditions (for example, certain musculoskeletal problems or arthritis), but this is becoming less common because safer dog-specific NSAIDs and other pain-control options are available. The same tablets people keep at home (regular or “baby” aspirin) should not be given on your own, because the dose, frequency, and your dog’s health status all need professional assessment first.
Signs of aspirin toxicity
If a dog receives too much aspirin, or is unusually sensitive to it, signs of toxicity can include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, lethargy, black or bloody stool, blood in vomit, fever, difficulty walking, trouble breathing, or seizures. Any of these signs after possible aspirin exposure is an emergency, and the dog should be seen by a vet or emergency clinic immediately.
Safer next steps
For a dog that seems to be in pain, the safest approach is to contact a veterinarian or emergency clinic before giving any medication at all. A vet can diagnose the cause of the pain and prescribe dog-appropriate pain relief or other treatments that are safer and more effective than over-the-counter aspirin.
