Dog Aspirin: What You Need to Know

Is it okay to give a dog aspirin? How much aspirin do I give to my 10 lb. dog? What is the best pain reliever for dogs? All of these questions and more are just some that are surrounding the debate over whether or not dogs should be given aspirin for pain associated with arthritis. While some veterinarians will tell you that aspirin can be a great pain reliever for your pooch when administered correctly, others will fight for more natural, alternative options that are designed especially for canines. So which is right for your dog?

According to Janet Tobiassen Crosby D.V.M., the answer lies in what exactly you’re trying to treat. It is important not to just give a drug because the animal is ‘not himself’ or is in pain where the cause is unknown. A trip to the vet is definitely in order to find out the root of the problem. It may be pain-related, it may not be.

If you find out that it’s simple arthritis, Crosby says that yes, aspirin can be used but only with extreme caution and under veterinary supervision. For dosage information, she recommends consulting with a veterinarian first. NEVER give your dog Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or Ibuprofen (Advil) as these are toxic and could cause death.

She also writes in her discussion:

Aspirin is in a class of drugs called NSAIDs – Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs, and dogs are particularly sensitive to the gastrointestinal effects of pain, bleeding, and ulceration that can be a side effect of these drugs. Coated aspirin may help with the gastrointestinal effects, though there is no guarantee. Aspirin may cause birth defects, so it should not be given to pregnant animals. Aspirin also interacts with several other drugs, particularly cortisones, digoxin, some antibiotics, Phenobarbital, and Furosemide(Lasix).

The alternative is to choose safe, potentially more effective drugs out there for dog arthritis, such as glucosamine supplements. Cosequin is a common veterinary supplement that helps with arthritis and some joint problems. If you want to relieve the pain, give your dog a specially formulated aspirin for dogs as to avoid side affects.