Caution
CautionVet ReviewedReviewed by Dr Alex Crow BVetMed MRCVSmedication

Use Caution

Medium dog serving: 1 tsp per 10kg

Key warning: cats, dogs on NSAIDs or blood thinners, puppies, pregnant or nursing dogs

Pepto-Bismol for Dogs — Plain Only With Vet Guidance, Never for Cats

This food requires caution. Read the details carefully before feeding.

Pepto-Bismol is sometimes recommended by vets for dogs with upset stomachs but contains bismuth subsalicylate which is related to aspirin. It should never be given without vet guidance and never to cats.

Warning Signs & Symptoms

Salicylate toxicity with overdose: vomiting, GI bleeding, abnormal clotting. Dark/black stools (normal with bismuth). Tinnitus.

If Your Dog Ate This

Call vet if symptoms worsen or large amount consumed.

Safe to Feed

only under explicit vet guidance at correct dog-specific dose

What to Avoid

cats, dogs on NSAIDs or blood thinners, puppies, pregnant or nursing dogs

Preparation & Serving

Always consult vet first. If approved: 1 teaspoon per 10kg body weight maximum. Never give to cats.

Potential Health Benefits

Mild anti-diarrheal and antimicrobial properties under vet guidance.

Safer Alternatives

  • probiotics-dogs|slippery-elm

Did you know?

Bismuth subsalicylate turns stool and tongue dark black or gray — a harmless side effect that alarms dog owners. The bismuth reacts with trace amounts of sulfur in saliva and the digestive tract to create bismuth sulfide which is dark colored but not harmful.

Portions & nutrition

Serving (small dog)
1 tsp per 10kg — only under vet guidance
Serving (medium dog)
1 tsp per 10kg
Serving (large dog)
1 tsp per 10kg
Calories (per 100g)
0
Safe frequency
Occasionally and only under vet guidance

Source

Source: AKC

What You Need to Know

Pepto-Bismol contains bismuth subsalicylate which has mild antimicrobial and anti-diarrheal properties. Some vets recommend it cautiously for dogs with GI upset. However it contains salicylates related to aspirin causing problems at high doses. Never give to cats. Never give to dogs on NSAIDs or blood thinners. Always consult vet before use.

Breed-Specific Notes

Never give to cats — salicylate is very toxic to cats.

This food requires care — if your dog has eaten a large amount read our emergency guide

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Frequently asked questions

Is Pepto Bismol Dogs safe for dogs?
Pepto Bismol Dogs requires caution for dogs. Pepto-Bismol is sometimes recommended by vets for dogs with upset stomachs but contains bismuth subsalicylate which is related to aspirin. It should never be given without vet guidance and never to cats.
What happens if a dog eats Pepto Bismol Dogs?
If a dog eats Pepto Bismol Dogs, they may experience: Salicylate toxicity with overdose: vomiting, GI bleeding, abnormal clotting. Dark/black stools (normal with bismuth). Tinnitus.
How much Pepto Bismol Dogs can a dog eat?
Pepto-Bismol contains bismuth subsalicylate which has mild antimicrobial and anti-diarrheal properties. Some vets recommend it cautiously for dogs with GI upset. However it contains salicylates related to aspirin causing problems at high doses. Never give to cats. Never give to dogs on NSAIDs or blood thinners. Always consult vet before use.

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Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a licensed veterinarian before making dietary changes for your pet.