Short answer: never give your dog human painkillers. Talk to your vet. If your dog has swallowed one, or you think they might have, call your vet now rather than waiting for signs.
If your dog seems sore
It is natural to want to help a limping or uncomfortable dog. But a medicine that helps you may not be safe for them. Some human painkillers can cause stomach or kidney problems. A tablet left over from another dog's treatment is not a safe substitute either.
Your vet may sometimes prescribe a medicine also used by people. That is different from choosing one from your own cupboard. Call your vet and ask what pain relief is right for your dog.
If your dog has swallowed a painkiller
You do not need to wait for your dog to look unwell. Stay calm, move them away from the medicine and keep the packaging. Tell your vet what the medicine is, when it happened and how much may have been swallowed. If you are unsure, say so.
If your usual vet is closed, call an emergency vet. Make that call now, even if your dog looks well.
While you are getting advice
Do not try to make your dog vomit or give another medicine to help. Your vet will tell you what to do next. If your dog takes any other medicines, tell the vet before anything more is given.
Follow your vet's instructions rather than trying a treatment at home.
Keep medicines out of reach
Store medicines for people and pets somewhere your dog cannot reach. Ask everyone at home to do the same. Keep pain relief decisions with your vet, not with advice intended for people or another pet.
Put all medicines away in a secure cupboard.
General education only, not veterinary advice or a plan for your individual dog. If your dog may have swallowed a painkiller, please contact a vet now. See our legal page.
Sources & care notes
Sources: US FDA, Get the facts about pain relievers for pets. PDSA, Anti-inflammatory drugs. RSPCA, Poisoning in dogs. Blue Cross, Basic first aid for dogs.
This article is general education, not veterinary advice. If your dog seems unwell, is in pain, or something changed suddenly, call your vet. If it could be an emergency, do not wait.
Frequently asked questions
Can I give my dog a human painkiller?
No. Never give a dog a painkiller meant for people. Talk to your vet about what is right for your dog.
My dog seems sore. What do I do?
Call your vet and ask what pain relief is right for your dog. A medicine that helps you may not be safe for them.
What if my dog got into my medicine?
Call your vet right away and keep the packaging to show them. Do not wait for your dog to look unwell.
What is the everyday prevention?
Keep all medicines out of reach.
